Understanding Fabric

The fabrics and colors are usually the first things that draw people to a quilt, the second is the design. The preferred fiber content for quilting fabric is 100% cotton. Some fiber-artists choose to "go against the grain" with their creations. Always consider the intended use of your final product as different fabrics behave in different ways when sewn, pressed, or laundered.

Does thread count....well, count? Absolutely! When you go shopping for fabric for your first project, take a moment to examine a bolt or two.

A bolt is basically the cardboard insert the fabric is wrapped around.

Check the end of the bolt. The percentage of fibers is usually listed on the end of the of the fabric's cardboard bolt. The number of threads per square inch determines the quality & weight of fabric.

Quilting cotton has a higher thread count than lighter-weight cotton. Fabrics with low thread counts are too lightweight to use in piecing a quilt. These fabrics will ravel excessively, shrink more and have much less durability.

It is important to cut pieces to a fabrics grain line. Following the grain line reduces stretching and distortion. Take a yard of fabric & examine it as you read about the grain lines.

• Lengthwise Grain: The grain that runs parallel to the selvage edges is called the lengthwise grain. It is the most stable and least stretchy of all three grain lines. This is the grain you will be cutting straight strips or sashing strips for between the blocks of a quilt.
• Crosswise Grain: The crosswise grain runs perpendicular to the selvage. It has a bit of stretch, but is still stable. After cutting your strips, you'll be cutting the crosswise grain when you begin cutting squares & such for piecing.
• Bias Grain: The bias grain is at a 45 degree angle to the selvage edge. It is very stretchy. You will be cutting this grain when you make certain units such as Half Squares.

Piece-fully yours,

Shelly