Its never easy is it, understanding what fabric goes with what pattern.  And what happens if you have a piece of fabric in your stash that you cannot remember what it is called.   

We understand.  Which is why we have tried to help by giving you suggestions.  Obviously, we could not list every single fabric in our filter search, so we have broken it down to six filters.  It should be noted that these are very general suggestions, and as always we recommend you read the pattern instructions.

Light Weight Woven:                      

                                       This fabric that would generally have a silky feeling to it and would be light and flowing.   It would as a rule drape very well.   However, be careful here as lace would be considered a light weight woven, but the drape would not be the same as chiffon for example.

Medium Weight Woven:              

                                       This fabric would be the most common fabric found in fabric stores today.  Think cottons, poplin, lawn, crepe de chines.   Medium Weight Woven fabric is used for a wide range of projects.   Depending on what and how it is made would depend on the drape.

Heavy Weight Woven:                   

                                      This fabric is best described and little to no drape, if quite weighty compared to other types of fabric.  Think upholstery fabric, denim, faux leather.

Light Weight Stretch:                      

                                      This would describe and fabric with a stretch along the width of the fabric or length of the fabric.   It would generally be used as lingerie and activewear, so Lycra, spandex, viscose jersey.  Depending on the fabric you have, depends of the durability.  Viscose and cotton jersey would make comfy underwear, but for something more durable and able to with stand wear tear, you would use a Lycra or spandex mix.

Medium Weight Stretch:              

                                       Again, this is one of the most common types of stretch fabric found in fabric stores.   It could be either 2 way or 4 way stretch.  Ideal for tops, dresses, trousers, and coats.  It can be made from cotton, viscose, or polyester.   The main thing to consider for stretch fabrics, is how much it stretch’s, as most patterns will give you a stretch guide on the back.   For the purpose of this glossary, fabrics like polar fleece are medium weight stretch.

Heavy Weight Stretch:                   

                                       As the name implies this is a heavy weight stretch.  Some velvets would fall in this category, as would a stretch denim.   You could also get tapestry that would have a stretch to it.  

The following table lists some of the more common fabrics and what we have classified them as: