5 tips at the fabric shop when selecting fabric for a tea cozy

1) Look for fabric after you have chosen your pattern. Check for fabric care instructions. If your lifestyle doesn’t permit dry cleaning your fabrics let go of it. Look for washable fabrics which can be thrown in the washer and dryer and do not require special care.

2) Fabrics that wrinkle easily will require extra care. Crush a corner of the fabric and hold it tightly for several seconds. If it wrinkles let it go unless of course if that’s what you want. Also, look for preshrink requirements. It is always advisable to preshrink the fabric and it is best to buy ½ yard extra to avoid the loss of fabric due to shrinking.


3) Check for Colorfastness. Check to see color is rubbed off. Ask the store manager if the color of the fabric will run. If possible rub the fabric against your skin or a wet cloth or paper napkin at the end to check for any color run. Certain fabrics may look good but if it requires that you need to wash it separately every time you wear you may have to consider the time and effort on a long term basis before plunging into buying one. If you are buying it as a gift consider the above as well, is the receiver living a fast paced life and is looking for convenience.

4) Look for flaws in construction, dyeing, color or dirt stains, fading or fold marks. Open the fabric from the bolt and look closely for the flaws on the entire stretch of fabric you may need. Also, check the Texture, flow of the fabric and the stretch. Seeing the pattern or style on your pattern book will give you an idea as to the flow of the fabric.

5) Grain is very important in fabric. Fabric grains refer to the directions in which the threads run. Buy fabrics which are “on-grain” .Woven fabrics are "on-grain," if the lengthwise and crosswise threads are at right angles, for a tea cozy medium weight woven fabrics in soft cotton are best suited. If you are going for knit fabrics know that they stretch and check with the pattern if they recommend knit fabrics. Knit fabrics are made of interlocking loops of thread. Knit fabrics are "on-grain," if the lengthwise rows of loops in the knit are straight.

Once you have the fabric you want, calculate the total cost of the pattern, and fabric needed to make the tea cozy. If it is more than your budget, you may need to look for less expensive or a pattern that uses less fabric. Also check if you can make your project with fabric available at home for example used clothes etc. All in all, the most important thing about sewing is to project your style and creativity. Choosing the right fabric helps in bringing out the best in you.

Have fun selecting the fabric that is perfect for your tea cozy!

Express yourself!

Jini
visit www.step-by-step-sewing.com for more information, tips and video tutorials on how you can improve your sewing.

5 tips to note before you shop for fabric for a Tea Cozy

1) Find out the latest colors and trends for the coming season. Check online or in magazines. Select the ones that look good and coordinate with your home décor in case you are sewing for your own home. In case you are sewing a tea cozy as a gift look for something that is bright and cute or something that is a favorite of the receiver. Ask a friend or family member to help you in case if you are not sure.

2) Study the pattern. If you are following a pattern, most of them mention what type of fabric is suitable for that pattern. See the pictures and photographs that will give you a better idea. Look for the flow of the pattern which will enable you to select a fabric accordingly.

3) Have the color coordination’s written down so you don’t get confused at the fabric shop.

4) Take the measurements. Different patterns are drawn for different styles. In order to get the right amount of fabric it is safer to have accurate measurements of the person or the article you are sewing. Do not forget the seam allowance. Always add extra ½ yard cloth just in case you need it in case of errors or additions or for preshrunk fabrics.

5) Always have the pattern in hand before you enter the shop. If you intend to buy the pattern from the fabric shop then walk directly to the pattern catalog section. Patterns mention the skill level so accordingly opt for one that is closest to your comfort level. Read the back of your pattern envelope for a list of suggested fabrics. Some read, "For Knits Only." Look at the colors and characteristics of the fabrics illustrated on the front of the pattern envelope. The envelope will also indicate whether the pattern is appropriate for plaids, diagonal stripes, and border prints

Now you are set to go the fabric shop.

Go ahead. Express yourself!

Jini
P.S. Visit step-by-step-sewing.com for more information and tips