Dress, Patchwork & Craft

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are most formal dresses made out of?

  Formal dresses do not need to be hard-wearing or easy to wash as they tend to only be worn occasionally. Chiffon and georgette are both sheer or semi-sheer and make a striking over-layer. Satin and silk are shiny with a glossy shine and very form-fitting. Silk fabric tends to be more expensive than other dressmaking fabrics which is historically why it’s considered a luxury fabric and popular for formal occasions.

• What fabric is used in wedding dresses?

  The most popular fabric used in wedding dresses is satin, although lace, charmeuse, chiffon, tulle and organza are also common. Natural materials are typically more expensive than artificial materials and have a much more luxurious feel. Satin is particularly popular as it can be draped or ruched and is thick enough to give structure to a dress. 

• What is the softest dress material?

  Cotton is the most popular fabric in the world. It is light, breathable, and gets softer the more it is washed. The softness of cotton means it is also a good option for people who might have sensitive skin as it won’t cause irritation. Cotton is long-lasting and can be made into casual, everyday dresses as well as more formal outfits. 
   

• What’s a patchwork?

  Patchwork is a form of needlework that is created by sewing together pieces of fabric into a larger design. The small pieces of fabric used in patchwork are called patches, and are often different colours, patterns or shapes. They are sewed together to create a distinctive and eye-catching final design. The patches of fabric tend to be square, but using strips, triangles or hexagons is also popular.
  
  Another word for patchwork is quilting. The two are actually very different, but the words are sometimes used interchangeably.

• Is patchwork a pattern?

  There is no set pattern when making a patchwork. The larger design is usually based on repeating patterns, but the patches of fabric can be a variety of shapes and colours. Patchwork quilts or blankets are commonly made to commemorate special event such as a birthday, wedding, or new baby as they can easily be personalized or incorporate materials with sentimental value.

• What is patchwork material?

  There is no specific patchwork material. When making a patchwork item, the choice of material depends on what you are making. If you are making a quilt or blanket, 100% cotton is as good as it is soft, easy to handle and tends to be washable. We stock a wide range of patchwork fabrics in a variety of colours and styles. The most common things to make is a patchwork blanket or quilt, but it is also possible to make eye-catching  handbags, clothes, wall hangings, cushion covers or patchwork furniture.

• Can I use dress fabrics for patchwork and quilting?

  Yes — many dress fabrics, particularly cottons, are ideal for patchwork and quilting. Lightweight cottons are easy to cut into pieces and sew together without bulk, making them perfect for quilts, cushions, and decorative craft projects. Mixing prints and plains is a clever way to add depth and personality to patchwork designs. For inspiration, explore our fabric samples to see how different fabrics work together.

• How much fabric do I need for a dress or quilt?

  For dressmaking, the amount depends on the style and size of the garment — a simple top may need just 1–2 metres, while a full-skirted dress could take 4–5 metres. For patchwork, the quantity depends on your quilt size and the number of fabrics you’d like to mix. Our curtain fabric measuring guide offers helpful advice on calculating fabric amounts — the same principles apply to measuring carefully for craft projects.

• What’s the difference between dress fabric and upholstery or curtain fabric?

  Dress and craft fabrics are usually lighter and softer, designed for comfort and easy sewing, while upholstery and curtain fabrics are heavier and more hardwearing. Although dress fabrics aren’t suitable for upholstering sofas or making lined curtains, they can sometimes be used for light furnishings such as cushion covers or patchwork throws. If you’re unsure, order a sample first to test the fabric’s feel and weight for your project.

• Can beginners use dress and patchwork fabrics easily?

  Yes — cotton, linen, and poly-cotton blends are very beginner-friendly as they’re stable, easy to cut, and straightforward to sew. Fabrics like stretch jersey or satin can be more challenging but are excellent once you gain confidence. For patchwork, starting with cotton quilting fabrics is a tried-and-tested approach. Ordering a selection of fabric samples is a clever way to practise before starting your main dressmaking or craft project.