Fun Facts Friday!! Working with Wovens.

Using woven fabric (wovens) in quilting can add unique texture and dimension to your projects. Wovens, which are fabrics created by interlacing two sets of yarns at right angles, tend to have less stretch and a more structured feel compared to knit fabrics. However, wovens come with a few caveats. Technically, quilting cotton is a woven but most of us recognize wovens as the quilting fabrics that have texture, a natural feel and are more rustic.

Types of Wovens for Quilting:

1. Quilting Cotton: The most common woven used in quilting, known for its smooth texture and durability.
2. Linen: Adds a rustic, textured look, but can be trickier to work with due to fraying and looser weave.
3. Chambray: A lightweight, denim-like woven that works well for quilting projects with a soft, casual look.
4. Homespun: A loosely woven cotton with a vintage look, often used for country or primitive-style quilts.
5. Twill: A sturdier woven fabric with a diagonal weave pattern, which adds texture and durability to quilts.

Pros of Using Wovens in Quilting:

• Stable Structure: Wovens provide a stable, non-stretchy base, making them easy to piece and sew.
• Variety of Textures: Wovens come in a variety of textures and weights, adding depth and dimension to quilts.
• Durability: Wovens, especially quilting cottons and twills, are long-lasting and wear well over time.
• Classic Look: Many wovens, such as plaids and stripes, give quilts a timeless, traditional feel.

Cons of Using Wovens in Quilting:

• Fraying: Wovens, especially those with looser weaves (like linen or homespun), tend to fray easily, which may require more careful handling.
• Shrinkage: Some wovens, particularly natural fibers like cotton and linen, may shrink after washing, so pre-washing is recommended.
• Bulkiness: Heavier wovens, like twill or denim, can add bulk to the quilt, which may make quilting more difficult or affect the overall drape.
• Bias Stretch: While wovens are generally stable, they can stretch along the bias (diagonal), requiring careful cutting and sewing to avoid distortion.

Tips for Quilting with Wovens:

• Pre-wash Fabrics: Since wovens may shrink, pre-washing will help prevent warping after the quilt is finished.
• Handle with Care: Use pins or clips to manage fraying edges and consider using a walking foot for more even sewing.
• Press Seams: Press seams carefully to reduce bulk, especially with thicker wovens.
• Use Sturdy Needles: For heavier wovens, use a stronger needle like a 90/14 to prevent skipped stitches.

Incorporating wovens into quilting can give your projects a distinctive look and texture while maintaining durability. Wovens take a bit more work to sew, but expand your choices for quilt fabric selection!

Managed Freedom - Embracing Choice!

 

Happy Sewing

Jody