Fabric selection is one of the most crucial aspects of quilting. The right fabric can elevate your quilt, ensuring it’s not only beautiful but also durable and comfortable. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting, understanding the different types of fabric, their quality, and how to prepare them is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about quilt fabric and materials, including tips on cutting, preparation, and where to buy the best fabrics.

Understanding Fabric Types for Quilting

Quilting involves a variety of fabric types, each with its characteristics that affect the quilt’s look, feel, and longevity. Here’s a breakdown of the most common fabrics used in quilting:

1. Cotton:

• 100% Quilting Cotton: This is the most popular fabric for quilting due to its durability, ease of use, and wide availability. Quilting cotton comes in a vast array of colors, prints, and patterns. It’s tightly woven, making it strong enough to withstand the rigors of quilting while remaining soft and comfortable.
• Pros: Easy to sew, presses well, and is available in a wide range of designs.
• Cons: May shrink slightly when washed, so pre-washing is recommended.

2. Batik:

• Batik Fabric: Batik is a type of cotton that is hand-dyed using a wax-resist technique, resulting in vibrant, intricate patterns. Batiks are known for their high thread count and smooth texture.
• Pros: Rich colors, unique patterns, and a tight weave that resists fraying.
• Cons: Often more expensive and can be slightly stiffer than regular cotton.

3. Flannel:

• Flannel Fabric: Flannel is a soft, brushed cotton fabric that is perfect for cozy, warm quilts. It’s a bit thicker than standard quilting cotton, making it an excellent choice for winter quilts.
• Pros: Soft and warm, ideal for baby quilts or throws.
• Cons: Can stretch and distort during sewing, and it may pill over time.

4. Linen:

• Linen Fabric: Linen, made from flax fibers, is known for its strength and breathability. It has a slightly rough texture and a natural, rustic appearance.
• Pros: Strong and breathable, with a unique texture.
• Cons: Wrinkles easily and can be more challenging to work with due to its loose weave.

5. Silk:

• Silk Fabric: Silk adds a touch of luxury to quilts. It’s incredibly soft, has a beautiful sheen, and drapes well. Silk quilts are often made for decorative purposes due to their delicate nature.
• Pros: Luxurious feel and appearance, lightweight.
• Cons: Expensive, delicate, and can be challenging to sew.

6. Wool:

• Wool Fabric: Wool can be used for quilting, especially in appliqué work or for creating warm quilts. It’s durable, naturally insulating, and available in various textures.
• Pros: Warm, durable, and naturally resistant to creases.
• Cons: Can be heavy and may require special care, such as dry cleaning.

7. Blends:

• Fabric Blends: Some quilts use fabric blends, such as cotton-polyester, which combine the best qualities of different fibers. These fabrics can offer the softness of cotton with the durability and wrinkle resistance of polyester.
• Pros: Often more affordable, with the benefits of both fibers.
• Cons: Can be less breathable than 100% cotton and may not hold quilting stitches as well.

Fabric Quality: What to Look For

The quality of the fabric you choose will significantly impact your quilt’s final outcome. Here are some factors to consider when selecting quilt fabric:

1. Thread Count:

• Importance: The thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch of fabric. Higher thread counts generally mean a tighter weave, which is more durable and less likely to fray.
• Ideal Range: For quilting, look for fabrics with a thread count of 60 to 70 threads per inch. Batiks often have higher thread counts, making them exceptionally durable.

2. Fabric Weight:

• Lightweight vs. Heavyweight: The weight of the fabric affects how it drapes and feels. Quilting cotton is typically medium-weight, making it ideal for piecing and quilting. Heavier fabrics like denim or canvas can be used for more rugged quilts, while lighter fabrics like voile are better suited for summer quilts or garments.
• Consideration: Ensure that the weight of the fabric matches the intended use of the quilt. For example, a quilt for a child should be soft and lightweight, while a quilt for outdoor use might benefit from heavier fabric.

3. Fabric Finish:

• Types: Some fabrics come with special finishes, such as sizing or starch, to give them body. These finishes can make cutting and sewing easier but may wash out over time. Other finishes include water-resistant coatings or treatments to prevent fading.
• Care Instructions: Be aware of any special care instructions that come with finished fabrics, as these may affect the durability and maintenance of the quilt.

4. Colorfastness:

• Testing for Colorfastness: Before using a new fabric, especially if it’s dark or vibrant, test it for colorfastness. This involves soaking a small piece of the fabric in water to see if the dye bleeds. Fabrics that bleed can ruin a quilt, especially when combined with lighter colors.
• Solution: Use a color fixative like Retayne to set the dye before sewing or consider washing the fabric with a color-catching sheet.

Tips on Fabric Cutting and Preparation

Proper preparation and cutting of your fabric are critical to the success of your quilting project. Here’s how to get started:

1. Pre-Washing:

• Why Pre-Wash?: Pre-washing your fabric helps remove any sizing, shrinkage, or excess dye. It also allows you to see how the fabric behaves after washing, which is especially important if you’re combining different types of fabrics.
• Exceptions: Some quilters prefer not to pre-wash, especially with pre-cuts like charm packs or jelly rolls, as it can distort their size. In this case, it’s important to be aware of potential shrinkage after the quilt is completed.

2. Pressing:

• Importance of Pressing: Press your fabric before cutting to remove any wrinkles or creases. Use a hot iron with steam to ensure the fabric lies flat, which will help you achieve more accurate cuts.
• Best Practices: Avoid stretching the fabric while pressing, as this can distort the grain. Pressing, rather than ironing (which involves sliding the iron across the fabric), is recommended to maintain the fabric’s integrity.

3. Cutting:

• Tools: Use a rotary cutter, self-healing cutting mat, and acrylic rulers for precise cuts. Ensure your rotary cutter blade is sharp to avoid frayed edges and uneven cuts.
• Techniques: Always cut with the grain of the fabric to avoid distortion. Align the fabric’s selvage edges and fold it to ensure even layers. When cutting multiple layers, use pattern weights or pins to keep them in place.

4. Storing Fabric:

• Organizing Your Stash: Store your fabric in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Organize by color, type, or project to make it easy to find what you need.
• Preventing Wrinkles: Roll or fold fabric neatly to prevent wrinkles. For long-term storage, consider using acid-free tissue paper between layers to protect delicate fabrics.

Where to Buy Quilt Fabric: A Guide to the Best Sources

Finding the right fabric for your quilting project is easier than ever, with a variety of options available both in-store and online. Here’s where to look:

1. Local Quilt Shops:

• Advantages: Shopping at a local quilt shop allows you to see and feel the fabric in person, ensuring you’re satisfied with the color, texture, and quality. These shops often carry high-quality quilting fabrics, tools, and notions, along with expert advice from staff.
• Support Local: Supporting local quilt shops helps sustain small businesses and often contributes to the quilting community through classes and events.

2. Online Retailers:

• Convenience: Online fabric stores offer convenience and a vast selection. Many specialize in quilting fabric, providing detailed descriptions, close-up images, and customer reviews.
• Popular Sites: Some popular online retailers for quilt fabric include:
  • Fat Quarter Shop: Known for a wide selection of pre-cuts, kits, and quilting fabric from top designers.
  • Missouri Star Quilt Company: Offers a huge variety of quilting fabrics, along with tutorials and patterns.
  • Fabric.com: Provides a large selection of quilting cottons and other fabrics at competitive prices.
  • Etsy: A great place to find unique, hand-dyed, or vintage fabrics, often from independent sellers.

3. Fabric Manufacturers and Designers:

• Designer Collections: Many fabric manufacturers work with designers to create coordinated fabric collections. These collections ensure that all the fabrics work well together, making it easier to plan a cohesive quilt.
• Notable Designers: Look for collections from well-known designers like Kaffe Fassett, Tula Pink, or Anna Maria Horner, which are often available through both local and online retailers.

4. Quilt Shows and Events:

• Specialty Fabrics: Quilt shows and events often feature vendors selling specialty fabrics that you might not find elsewhere. This include fabrics that are hand-dyed, rare, or imported. These events are also a great place to discover new designers and stock up on unique materials.

5. Thrift Stores and Recycled Fabrics:

• Eco-Friendly Options: Thrift stores, flea markets, and estate sales can be treasure troves for quilters looking for vintage or recycled fabrics. Old clothing, linens, or even curtains can be repurposed into beautiful quilt pieces.
• Pros: Affordable, eco-friendly, and often one-of-a-kind.
• Cons: Fabrics from thrift stores may require extra care, such as washing or inspecting for damage before use.

Preparing and Handling Special Quilt Fabrics

Some quilt projects call for more than just traditional quilting cotton. Here’s how to handle specialty fabrics:

1. Batiks:

• Handling: Batiks are tightly woven and may require a sharp needle for sewing. Be sure to use a fresh, sharp rotary cutter blade to avoid fraying.
• Colorfastness: Batiks can bleed, so it’s especially important to pre-wash them with a color catcher or set the dye before cutting.

2. Flannel:

• Preparation: Flannel has a tendency to stretch and distort, so pre-washing is crucial. It also tends to shed lint, so consider cleaning your sewing machine more frequently when working with flannel.
• Sewing: Use a walking foot to prevent the fabric from shifting as you sew. A slightly larger seam allowance (about 1/2 inch) can help manage the fabric’s thickness.

3. Linen and Silk:

• Linen: This fabric tends to fray easily, so consider serging the edges before sewing. Linen wrinkles easily, so press carefully and frequently during the quilting process.
• Silk: Silk is delicate and can shift while sewing. Use a fine needle and silk pins, and consider using a stabilizer to help with piecing.

4. Wool:

• Preparation: Wool may shrink when washed, so pre-washing is essential unless you’re aiming for a felted look. Wool can also be bulky, so a walking foot can help manage the layers.
• Sewing: Use a thicker needle and consider hand-quilting with wool, as it lends itself well to the tactile, cozy nature of the fabric.

Final Tips for Working with Quilt Fabrics

1. Consistency in Fabric Quality:

• Mixing Fabrics: While it’s possible to mix different types of fabrics in a single quilt, consistency in fabric quality is important for a harmonious final product. For instance, combining fabrics with very different weights or weaves can lead to uneven wear or difficulty in piecing.
• Match the Project: Tailor your fabric choices to the specific needs of your quilt. For a quilt that will be frequently washed, such as a baby quilt, stick with durable, washable fabrics like cotton or flannel.

2. Starch and Sizing:

• Starch Benefits: Starching fabric before cutting can provide extra stability, making it easier to achieve precise cuts and seams. This is particularly useful for fabrics that tend to fray or stretch.
• Usage: Spray starch lightly and evenly on the fabric, then press with a hot iron. Be careful not to oversaturate the fabric, as too much starch can make it stiff and difficult to work with.

3. Understanding Fabric Bias:

• Bias Cuts: Cutting fabric on the bias (at a 45-degree angle to the grain) allows for more stretch, which is useful for curves or binding. However, it can also lead to distortion if not handled carefully.
• Handling Bias: When working with bias-cut pieces, handle them gently to avoid stretching. Pinning or basting edges can help maintain the shape during sewing.

4. Fabric Care and Maintenance:

• Caring for Your Quilt: Once your quilt is complete, proper care will ensure its longevity. Wash quilts on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent, and air dry or use a low heat setting. For quilts with delicate fabrics like silk or wool, consider dry cleaning or hand washing.
• Storage: Store quilts in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight. Rolling quilts, rather than folding them, can help prevent creases. If folding is necessary, refold periodically to avoid permanent creases.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fabric for your quilt is a blend of artistry and practicality. By understanding the different types of fabric available, their qualities, and how to prepare and work with them, you can create quilts that are not only beautiful but also durable and functional. Whether you’re sourcing fabrics from your local quilt shop, an online retailer, or repurposing vintage textiles, the fabrics you choose will bring your creative vision to life. Happy quilting!