Replies

1. 
   marymary | Sep 25, 2013 10:46am | #1

   Since you say you are a new sewer, I would recommend that you use a fabric that is suggested on the back of your pattern.  Is this Duck fabric that you want to use online, or in a store where you can touch the fabric?  There is a lot of variation in what is call Duck fabric.  Some would be absolutely too stiff for a garment.  The upholstery department is a great place to find interesting fabric for garments.  Sometimes, if you wash the upholstery fabric it softens up.

   You do need experience to understand fabric.  This is a little off your question, but is an example of what can be confusing.  Some fabrics are called "linen" when there is no linen anywhere in the fabric.  That can be confusing to beginners and even store staff.  I had a clerk insist that I was looking at the linen because the sign said "linen like".  Explaining that I wanted pure linen fabric did no good because she didn't understand that linen is a fiber, not a weave.

   Don't get discouraged.  You will make mistakes in choosing the right fabric for the right pattern.  We all do.  Just take it as a learning experience and move on to the next project. 

2. 
   Pattiann42 | Sep 25, 2013 12:12pm | #2

   Cotton Duck

   With this and any other upholstery fabric it may or may not work.  Purchase 1/4 yard if you can.  Measure a square and wash in cool water, then dry.  Duck may wrinkle to the point of never being smooth again.  It will also wrinkle when worn.  Fabric softener may or may not work.  

   Fiber content is questionable these days as the country of origin may or may not be correct in their assessment of the fabric.

   You just have to test and then make your own choice.  And, I would start with swatches and pretest before making an expensive purchase.