Replies

1. 
   Rabia | Mar 19, 2010 09:05pm | #1

   Theoretically because it was a cheap, fairly sturdy material with a clear grain. Nowadays, it's NOT so cheap anymore!

2. 
   Palady | Mar 20, 2010 01:23pm | #2

   Rabia nailed it as for cost of muslin.  The idea is to work through the construction & adjust the fittings.   The following URL will give an idea of why one blogger opted to do muslins.

   http://coudremode.com/?p=333

   The work in progress -

   http://coudremode.com/?p=335

   http://coudremode.com/?p=336

   The finished fashion before wearing -

   http://coudremode.com/?p=337

   Wearing it -

   http://coudremode.com/?p=338

   nepa

3. 
   stillsuesew | Mar 20, 2010 02:12pm | #3

   Because muslin is a fairly stable fabric and light in color, you can mark on it easily and stitch and remove stitches and it will still hold up.  But you can really use anything to try a pattern.  I actually like to use something that is nearer to the final fabric I will use.  A sturdy muslin just doesn't do the same thing when I will be using a flowing sheer.

1. 
   Ceeayche | Mar 28, 2010 01:54am | #5

   I use "muslin" as a generic term

   While I agree with the previous posters, about why use muslin fabric, I also agree with "Stillsuesew."  Making a "muslin" out of fabric with a similar hand to the fashion fabric I plan to use has been a lifesaver.  Especially when I go off the range, and ignore the recommendations on the pattern envelope. 

4. 
   artfulenterprises | Mar 27, 2010 09:02pm | #4

   Muslin (if you choose one that is not too densely woven...please) is also easy to pull straight and cross grain threads out of the weave so that grain lines can be easily seen.  This helps you keep your garment well balanced and hanging properly as you adjust the fit while draping or laying out a pattern.