Best Fabrics for Summer Clothing
Here comes the heat – and with it, the summer wardrobe. When shopping for summer fabrics to use in your next chic sewing project, remember to look for something lightweight and breathable and avoid fabric that is heavy and ornate. Trust us, you will thank yourself when you are out in the blazing sun. To help narrow down your choices, here are our top four favorite fabrics for summer clothing.
Cotton
We’re sure you saw this one coming, but cotton is a versatile fabric that can be used for all your projects – not just summer ones. Available in different weights, colors, patterns and styles, cotton can be transformed into a variety of stylish, warm-weather garments. Plus, this natural fiber fabric is durable and comfy. How can you go wrong with that?
Linen
The ultimate summer fabric, linen is breathable and light – perfect for a sunny, breezy day. The fine threads of linen help the material dry faster when wet, which is why this is a popular choice for the beach. Sew a pair of loose pants or an airy dress that can be dressed up or down all summer long. Want to make yourself ever cooler? Choose a light color fabric to help reflect light and heat.
Rayon
Are you looking to sew a tube dress or large, flowy top for the summer? Rayon should be your fabric of choice! This man-made material is composed from natural cellulose, and this comfy fabric will help keep you cool if you are experiencing a scorcher. Plus, it will absorb humidity, helping you feel lighter and ready to seize the day instead of tired and weighed down.
Silk
Are we really suggesting silk? Yes, yes we are. Although dreaded sweat stains may appear on silk, it is a natural fiber that is excellent at beating the heat and humidity. This luxurious material will make you feel like a queen and can create a light, comfortable garment. If you are still a little skeptical, sew a fancy blouse and out-on-the-town dress to wear during cooler, summer nights.
No matter your inspiration for your one-of-a-kind summer sewing project, Fabrictopia can help you find the perfect fabric to make you feel ready for a day in the sun or a hot summer night. Find the ideal lightweight materials you are searching for by visiting the Fabrictopia store on Harwin Drive in Houston, or call us today at 713-977-0747 for even more information on picking the perfect fabrics for warm weather.
Save During Pageant Season - DIY Dress Ideas
Pageant season is almost upon us, and you know what that means – it’s time for a new dress! If you buy a dress off the rack for a pageant this year, it can cost you a fortune, and you run the risk of having the same style as someone else. Fortunately, you can have your own style and save money by creating your own dresses. Here are some DIY dress ideas from Fabrictopia.
The first thing you’ll need to do is review the pageant’s attire guidelines. Make sure that you’re aware of any length, color or style stipulations before you get started. Once you know what kind of rules you’re working with, you and your pageant star can visit our store to pick out the perfect fabric!
You’ll likely want to select a material that’s shiny and eye-catching, but not too over the top. The fabric should be a color and style that your girl will love wearing on stage. For people who have no experience in dressmaking, you might want to start with a simple, inexpensive dress in the same color as your chosen fabric to use as a base.
Once you see how the base dress fits on your daughter, you’ll start to get an idea of what you need to do to transform the simple dress into a pageant-worthy gown. Adding layers of fabric and tulle to the base dress can go a long way to adding some glitz and glam. You can even use tulle as a base with a solid-color fabric to finish off the skirt to create a ball gown look.
If you’re adding sleeves, you might want to use a pattern that you find online as a guideline. Clothing Patterns 101 offers a few options, including this easy-to-make cap sleeve.
Once your extra fabric is added to the base dress, you’ll have the form of the pageant gown. Now, all that is left to do is add embellishments, sparkle and style! If your pageant girl is fashion forward, ask her for some input on the finishing touches. She’ll be even more excited to wear the dress on stage if she had a hand in creating it!
We wish you and your little competitor the best at your pageant, and we’d love to see the dresses you’ve created! Stop in and let us help you find the right fabric today, and don’t forget to stop back or email us a picture so we can see you and your little one’s creativity at work!
To learn more or to inquire about specific fabric options, swing by the store on Harwin Drive in Houston, or call us today at 713-977-0747.