I like to make historical costumes. I need to buy some fabric as a base for an 1890’s skirt I am making. It was suggested that I use poplin. I’ve never seen poplin, so I was given a piece to feel. However, by the time I went shopping, I couldn’t remember quite what it felt like. The big fabric stores don’t seem to have a super-knowledgable staff and the downtown markets mostly carry polyester.
Does anyone know of a book that I can buy that has samples of various types of fabric? That way I could take the book with me when I go shopping.
TIA!
Threads Recommended Products
Style Arc, Hendrix Coat
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
The Hendrix coat sewing pattern from Style Arc is an unlined, panelled design with long two-piece sleeves, a button or snap front, and optional top-stitching. It features binding along the neck, hem, and sleeves, along with angled patch pockets and dropped shoulders. Recommended fabrics include wool, linen, faux fur, or velvet, with fabric estimates and trim details provided for sizes 4-30.
Quilts on an English Farm by Kaffe Fassett
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
San Francisco-born artist Kaffe Fassett is a celebrated name in the quilting world. His work has been commissioned by the British monarchy, American fashion designers, and the Royal Shakespeare Company. He has authored numerous bestsellers, including Quilts in Italy, Quilts by the Sea, and Quilts in an English Village.
Mettler Seraflex
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Mettler Seraflex Elastic Thread is a 50wt thread designed for superior stretch and recovery, making it ideal for various fabrics and garments. It is easy to handle and sew, ensuring consistent, high-quality stitching for any project. Perfect for garments, quilts, and more, this thread delivers reliable results every time.
McCall's 8241
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
McCalls Sewing Pattern 8241 Tops A (XS-S-M-L-XL-XXL). McCalls-8241-A
Know Me 2064 Vest and Jacket
Threads receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Know Me patterns offer stylish and versatile designs, including the ME2064 rain jacket, which combines a cropped jacket and a vest that can be worn together or separately. The boxy-fit jacket features a hood, snap closure, and multiple pockets, while the vest has a zippered front and cargo pockets. This sewing kit includes templates, fabric recommendations, and instructions for sizes 44-52, proudly made in the USA.
Replies
Try this link. It is from an earlier discussion and it might give you a good start in finding places that send out swatches, which might be better than buying a book. The topic of online shopping seems to pop up every now and then, so a search through the messages might be a good idea as well. Some places send out swatches.
http://forums.taunton.com/tp-gatherings/messages?msg=2952.1
Sr. Tracey
Thank you!
Hi Colleen!
I'm not very fabric knowledgeable myself, and have run into the same problem with the staff at my local stores. Last night I drove across town to take a class, none of the other students showed so I got a private lesson. :) I asked the instructor to walk me all around the store pointing out the different fabrics. It was very helpful, but a lot of info all at once and my memory's not that good!
I saw an ad for "fabric dictionaries" in the last Threads. Looks like a great resource, except they do cost money. Here's the link: http://www.raincitypublishing.com/
Good luck! audrey
This post is archived.