Fabric swatches, also known as fabric samples, are a great way to test the fabric's texture, weight and colour before buying yards. You will save money, time and energy.
How can you choose the right fabric swatches to match your project? The guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from fabric types to testing fabric swatches to finding the perfect match.
Understanding Fabric Types
You can find different types of fabrics when you buy fabric onlineor when shopping in stores.
1. Cotton
Cotton is a fabric that is easy to use, soft and breathable. Cotton is a good fabric for beginners. It can shrink, but it's great for casual clothes and summer clothing. Test a small piece of fabric before use.
2. Linen
Cotton is more luxurious and softer than linen. This fabric is lightweight and wrinkles easily. It can be used for summer clothing and home decor projects like curtains and table runners.
3. Silk
Silk drapes beautifully and is silky-smooth. It is perfect for scarves and evening wear. Be prepared for it to be slippery before you choose it for your project.
4. Polymer
Polyester fabric is durable, wrinkle-resistant and affordable. It is blended with other fabrics and is great for upholstery and outerwear. Clothing made from this fabric will not breathe.
5. Denim
Denim is a heavier fabric and has a longer lifespan than most other fabrics. Denim is a good choice for jackets and jeans.
6. Satin Velvet
Upholstery and decorative pillows are made from these fabrics. These fabrics add a touch of luxury to clothing and are perfect for special occasions.
Knowing the different types of fabric makes it easier to select fabric swatches.
Factors to consider
In order to ensure the success of your project, you should consider material characteristics like texture, weight, and color.
1. Texture
Run your fingers over the fabric swatch. Consider how it will feel on your skin, or whether the fabric is appropriate for the project you are working on. For baby clothes, a soft, smooth texture works best, while a rougher, more coarse texture would be better for bags or rugs.
2. Fabric weight
Weight is important because it determines the drape and behavior of the fabric. Cotton voile, for example, is lightweight and perfect for summer dresses. It's not a good choice for jackets with structured shoulders.
Colors, Patterns and Styles
The wrong color can ruin a design. View the swatch under different lighting conditions to ensure the color is accurate. If you are sewing with patterned fabric, visualize how the pattern will look on the final product.
4. Stretch
Do you plan to sew leggings, or a fitted shirt in a jersey? Test the stretchability of fabric swatches before sewing. Fabrics with more stretch are knit fabrics.
It's important to identify the factors as soon as possible.
Testing Swatches
Fabric swatches can be an invaluable tool. Make sure you test them before sewing your project. Learn how to test your fabric swatches.
1. Check For Shrinkage
Before buying fabric yardage, check if the fabric shrinks when washed. Measure your fabric swatch to see if its size has changed. This is important for fabrics that are made from cotton or linen.
2. Test of Colorfastness
Will the fabric fade over time? You can test your fabric's color by dampening and rubbing the fabric on a cloth. The fabric may not be appropriate for clothing or other projects that will require frequent washing.
3. Test Durability
Stretch or pull the sample gently to check for wear. Denim or polyester are better for bags or upholstery than silks and light cotton.
Tip - Test the swatches before purchasing to make sure they are up to your standards.
Matching Swatches with Projects
Some fabrics will not work for all projects. You must choose a fabric that matches your project specifications. Here are some examples to get you started.
Quilting Projects
When choosing fabrics for quilting, choose medium-weight cottons that are complementary or neutral in color. You can layer and stitch cotton easily. If you buy online, check if there are pre-cut packs of fabric in matching colors.
Garment Making
The fabric fit, drape, and feel all play a role in the garment-sewing process. Chiffon, silk, and structured cotton are good for dresses that flow, but denim and chiffon work best for tailored jackets and pants.
Home Decoration
When choosing upholstery, curtains and cushions, consider durability and texture. Heavy fabric, like velvet, canvas, or jacquard will resist wear while adding a luxurious feel.
Seamless Swatch Selection: Final Tips
These tips can make your shopping experience for swatches easier.
- Buy Fabric Swatches Onlinefrom reputable retailers that offer customer reviews and detailed descriptions.
- To experiment with different colors and textures, order several swatches.
- Make a collection of swatches to be used as a reference in the future. It will be easier to select fabric for your project.
Plan your project like a pro
Understanding the fabric types and testing swatches will help you to achieve success with your sewing project.
Buy fabric online when you're ready to get started. Online fabric stores offer convenience. Choose your favorite swatches and start creating your masterpiece.
Choosing the right fabric is key to great design. That’s why Fabriclore offers a wide catalog for B2B buyers—including woven RFD, mill-dyed denim, digital prints, and organic blends. From LIVA™ fabrics to premium cotton, we help you source the best materials for your collection. Order fabric swatches online to see and feel the material before buying in bulk.
