Sewing with Different Materials

When creating garments, the question of which materials to use is an important one. The application, design and comfort must be taken into account in order to choose the perfect materials for the item. However, for those sewing these garments, the materials can have a huge impact on the process.

Cotton

Cotton and cotton blends are commonly used for clothing due to their lightweight nature, so a seamstress is likely to be working with this material a lot. This material will call for a light cotton thread and smaller needles in order to avoid creating holes that can damage the integrity of the fabric.

Pros: Cotton is lightweight, making it relatively easy to work with.

Cons: The shape of cotton is easily changed, so if the proper pre-care is not taken, it can be difficult to get cotton to keep its shape. You may also find that edges can fray easily, so special care must be taken.

Denim

Denim is a popular fabric for items such as jeans due to its strength and hardiness. This quality in the material presents its own challenges when working with the fabric, however. You will need to use a heavy needle to get through the fabric as well as a sewing machine designed for use with heavier materials.

Pros: This strong fabric allows you to work with it without too much worry about the material changing shape.

Cons: This is a heavy-duty material which calls for heavy-duty tools. If you use the wrong tools with denim, you will have a great deal of trouble. Working with denim can be more time-consuming from the cutting of the fabric to the sewing.

Silk

Silk is a beautiful and luxurious material, and is popular for a range of applications, from dresses to smart shirts. Working with silk can be difficult due to its delicate nature, so you should take extra care.

Pros: Silk is a luxurious fabric so is very popular. You can also create some beautiful designs with this material that may not be possible with others.

Cons: Working with silk can be difficult. It isn’t hard to damage with pins and heavy needles, so it’s important to be careful when working with this delicate material.

Wool

Wool and wool blends are an excellent choice for winter clothing as they are thick and warm. When using the right tools, wool needn’t be a difficult fabric to work with.

Pros: Just like denim, the thickness of wool means that it keeps its shape, making it easier to work with. Wool also tends to have clean cut edges, so you don’t have to worry about fraying.

Cons: This material is thick, so it can be bulky when working with it. This also means that you have to use the right tools in order to work with it effectively.

At Stocks Sewing, we specialise in providing the tools that are essential to your business with our selection of industrial sewing machines. If you would like to find out more about any of our machines, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team by calling 0113 242 9378 or emailing enquiries@stocks.co.uk and we will be in touch.