Cotton is a fiber that’s woven, knitted, or felted to create a big range of fabrics. This is part 2 of my cotton exploration (part 1 covers all the major cotton types). In this post, I’m going to focus on 18 types of cotton fabric that are often used for shirts (defined as tops with … Read more
I researched what 8 UK businesses charge for a sewing machine service or repair. Here’s the average cost for domestic machines: Type of sewing machine Average service/repair cost (excluding parts) Mechanical machines £50-70 Computerised machines £75-95 Long arm machines £85-105 Most businesses charge based on the type of machine, not brand, except Frank Nutt. Premium … Read more
Cotton is a fiber that’s woven, knitted, or felted to create a big range of fabrics. I’m going to explain 71 different types of cotton fabric, their names, and how they’re used. In terms of visuals, I’m going to show: Close-up photos of my fabric samples. Photos of the fabrics made into real things, like … Read more
I checked online manuals to find the exact sewing machine settings for cotton fabric (the “woven”, non-stretch type). I’ll share the tension and stitch length settings you need for thin, medium, and thick cotton. Across the 3 major brands I checked, the standard tension you need is 4, and the standard stitch length is 2.5mm. … Read more
If you’ve ever looked at a serger listing online (also called an overlocker), you’ve probably been confused by all the stitches it can do! Like a “flatlock”. What is it? What does it look like? When would you use it in the real world?! So what types of stitches can a serger do? Here are … Read more
Fusible interfacing is applied by ironing it onto your fabric. But what’s the right way to do it? And should you pre-wash it? This is a step-by-step tutorial on how to use fusible interfacing. I’m getting my information directly from Pellon and Vilene – 2 of the biggest interfacing manufacturers. Contents list: Video tutorial: 2 … Read more
Sew in interfacing vs fusible: Interfacing gives structure to “limp” fabric. There are 2 main types: sew-in and fusible. The first is sewn onto the fabric, and the second is glued on using an iron. You can buy woven and non-woven versions of both. They come in different weights and colors too. I can’t say … Read more
Learn what sew-in interfacing is, the different types there are, and when to use them. All explained simply, with pictures.