Fabric Fundamentals

This has been a popular class wherever I have presented it. Often I see beginners delving into the world of creation and getting overwhelmed by what they don’t know. In a world with increasingly endless resources of varying reputability and a subject with several paths to mastery, I started to put together resources I wish I’d had when I first started sewing. Fabric Fundamentals is the first of those presented at a convention and one I also regularly teach locally as a class. More in depth versions get separated into two sessions (it can be easily separated into fabric characteristics and fabric handling/care), however I try in each to cover characteristics, care, and tips for navigating different fabrics, complete with physical samples to improve the educational experience.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by fabric? Or just don't know where to begin? Come demystify the world of fabric selection and learn essential knowledge to set you up for success as you plan your next creation.

We'll explore common fabric types by content and weave--from cotton to polyester, silk to rayon, and woven to knit. Learn to identify differences in weight, drape, and stretch, and discover which textiles work best for different costume elements like capes, flowing gowns, or structural pieces. We'll discuss budget-friendly shopping and construction strategies, where to source materials, and when splurges are worth it as we compare the trade-offs between different types of textiles. This panel will also speak to practical techniques such as preparing fabric, choosing needles, and working with difficult or specialty materials. And what are your options if you can't find the perfect fabric?!  Whether you're planning your first sewing project or looking to level up your fabric game, bring your fabric fears and disasters--and successes--and join this tour through textiles!