Whether you're a seasoned creator or just starting on your creative journey, it’s essential to know the ins and outs of each type of fabric. Nothing is worse than spending weeks on a project just for it to get damaged in the wash!
Our guide for caring for 12 remarkable fabric types will empower you with the knowledge and expertise needed to keep your fabric masterpieces looking their best.
From the elegant grace of satin to the sturdy versatility of cotton duck, each fabric possesses unique qualities and tailored care to maintain its beauty and longevity.
With our expert tips on choosing a fabric type for your project and properly caring for each one, you'll no longer be left guessing or relying on trial and error. With our expert advice on types of cotton, polyester fabrics, and even spandex fabrics, unlock the true potential of your fabrics and create items that not only look good but last a lifetime too.
Best Crafts and Care Tips for Each Fabric Type
Linen Cotton
- Best crafts: Tablecloths, napkins, curtains, and lightweight garments.
- Care instructions: Machine wash on a gentle cycle using cold water. Use a mild detergent. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Iron while the fabric is still slightly damp using a low to medium heat setting.
Twill Cotton
- Best crafts: Jeans, jackets, bags, and home decor items.
- Care instructions: Machine wash in warm water. Use a regular or heavy-duty detergent. Tumble dry on low heat or hang to dry. Iron on a medium to high heat setting if necessary.
7 oz Cotton Duck
- Best crafts: Tote bags, aprons, outdoor cushions, and upholstery projects.
- Care instructions: Machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Iron on a high heat setting if needed.
10 oz Cotton Duck
- Best crafts: Heavy-duty bags, work aprons, slipcovers, and utility items.
- Care instructions: Follow the same care instructions as 7 oz Cotton Duck (mentioned above).
Fleece
- Best crafts: Blankets, scarves, hats, and cozy apparel.
- Care instructions: Machine wash in warm water. Use a gentle detergent. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Avoid using fabric softeners. Do not iron.
Poplin
- Best crafts: Shirts, dresses, skirts, and pillowcases.
- Care instructions: Machine wash on a gentle cycle using cold water. Use a mild detergent. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Iron on a medium heat setting.
Lycra Spandex
- Best crafts: Swimwear, athletic wear, dance costumes, and fitted garments.
- Care instructions: Hand wash in cold water or use a delicate cycle. Use a mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners. Hang or lay flat to dry. Do not wring or twist the fabric.
Spandex Jersey Knit
- Best crafts: T-shirts, leggings, dresses, and activewear.
- Care instructions: Machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Use a mild detergent. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners.
Satin
- Best crafts: Evening gowns, lingerie, pillowcases, and accessories.
- Care instructions: Hand wash in cold water or use a delicate cycle. Use a gentle detergent. Avoid bleach. Hang or lay flat to dry. Iron on a low heat setting if necessary.
Sateen
- Best crafts: Bed sheets, pillowcases, drapes, and luxurious garments.
- Care instructions: Machine wash in warm water. Use a gentle detergent. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Iron on a medium heat setting if needed.
Microsuede
- Best crafts: Upholstered furniture, handbags, shoes, and decorative pillows.
- Care instructions: Check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer as they can vary. Generally, spot clean with a mild detergent and water. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals. Blot the fabric gently and let it air dry.
Duck Canvas
- Best crafts: Tents, tote bags, upholstery projects, and outdoor accessories.
- Care instructions: Machine wash on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Iron on a high heat setting if necessary.
Remember, when using custom fabrics, it’s essential to always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
General Care Tips for Customizable Fabrics
For most materials, there is a set of golden rules when it comes to cleaning and taking good care of the fabric. Be sure to follow the below advice for any of your crafts or projects that you want to ensure last a long time and stay damage-free:
Spot Clean Whenever Possible
For delicate crafts or items with intricate fabric designs, spot cleaning can be effective in removing stains and preserving the fabric's integrity. Use a mild detergent and gently blot the affected area with a clean cloth or sponge. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as continued friction can cause damage.
Handwash Delicate Items
If the item you are crafting is particularly delicate or contains fragile embellishments, handwashing is often the safest method. Fill a sink with cool water and add a gentle detergent. Submerge the item and lightly knead it with your hands. Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric.
Machine Washing Precautions
When machine washing crafted products, place them in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase to protect them from tangling or snagging with other items. Select a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water and use a mild detergent specifically formulated for delicate fabrics. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals.
Drying Methods
Depending on the fabric used in your project, different drying methods may be appropriate. For cotton fabrics like linen cotton, twill cotton, poplin, and sateen, air drying is often preferred to maintain their shape and prevent shrinkage. For fleece, spandex jersey knit, and microsuede, tumble drying on low heat or air drying works well. For others like cotton duck and satin, you should tumble dry on low to medium heat. Hang or lay flat to dry delicate items like Lycra spandex and satin.
Ironing Guidelines
Some crafted products may require ironing to restore their appearance or remove wrinkles. Set the iron to the appropriate temperature based on the fabric type. Iron the item gently, using a pressing cloth if necessary to protect delicate fabrics from direct heat. Avoid ironing directly on embellishments or decorations.
Care for Your Crafts with Confidence
Whether you're sewing fashionable garments, crafting functional accessories, or designing exquisite home décor, let this guide be your trusted resource in ensuring that your creation endures the test of time, making each stitch worth it. Order your custom fabric today at a competitive fabric price.
With our custom printed fabric, embrace the fascinating world of fabrics, and empower yourself to create, care for, and cherish with confidence!