Your comprehensive guide to high quality fabrics
When it comes to sewing and quilting, the fabric you use to stitch your piece is just as important as the design itself. The quality of your fabric can determine the feel and finish of your project, but with so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to know which to choose.
We’ve partnered with Liberty to introduce you to the best high quality fabrics on the market. Lasenby cotton and Tana Lawn™ are two high-quality cotton fabrics that are perfect for crafters and quilters of all abilities.
Before we discuss these two fabrics, let’s explore what to look for when selecting your high-quality fabrics.
What are high-quality fabrics?
No matter your craft, when it comes to choosing high quality fabrics, there are four characteristics to consider. These are: durability, breathability, silky to the touch, and made from 100% of a single material (not a blend).
High-quality fabrics for sewing: What to look for
When it comes to dressmaking, the fabrics you select will depend on the pattern you’re making. However, there are general rules you can follow to ensure you’re choosing a high quality fabric.
- A thread count between 150-250: this ensures your fabric is soft, durable and drapes well
- A weave count between 80-130 (this may vary depending on what garment you’re making): the fabric will be comfortable, pliable and have great air flow
- Look for 100% cotton lawn, cotton poplin, linen or silk
High-quality fabrics for quilting: What to look for
When it comes to quilting, you’re looking for a stronger fabric than that used in sewing. Look for the following when selecting your quality quilting fabric:
- A 100% cotton: this will give your quilts a soft finish and is both easy to sew with and naturally durable
- A tight, balanced weave: this will help the quilt hold its shape when cutting, piecing and sewing
- A thread count between 120–160: this count makes the fabric breathable and workable
- A grams per square metre [GSM] weight between 135-155: this fabric weight is stable and easy to sew while remaining soft
What is the best quality quilting fabric?
When it comes to premium quality fabrics, Liberty is one of our favourite retailers. Designed with crafting in mind, Lasenby cotton and Tana Lawn™ are two of the highest-quality fabrics on the market.
The best high quality fabric for quilting: Lasenby cotton
Named after the founder of Liberty, Sir Arthur Lasenby Liberty, Lasenby cotton is an easy-to-use, high-quality fabric that’s perfect for quilting. This unique fabric is made from 100% cotton and weighs 146 GSM, giving it the structure and durability you need when quilting.
Like many of the Liberty fabrics, Lasenby cotton is produced in their Italian mill, near Lake Como. This quality cotton fabric moves through printing, steaming, washing and softening processes, ensuring the highest quality finish your quilting projects deserve.
Lasenby cotton is the ideal fabric for those who enjoy fussy cutting and English paper piecing. Since it’s slightly heavier than its cotton companion Tana Lawn™ cotton, Lasenby cotton is also a brilliant choice for larger quilting projects.
The wide range of vibrant, inventive patterns, paired with its quality finish and accessible price point, makes Lasenby cotton the perfect high-quality quilting fabric. Use the Lasenby fabric range to create a dream heritage quilt, playful bunting and more!
The best high quality fabric for sewing: Tana Lawn™ cotton
When it comes to sewing and dressmaking, Tana Lawn™ cotton is our fabric of choice. This ultra-soft fabric is ideal for sewing garments and homewares thanks to its smooth, plain weave. This fabric has a thread count of 240, creating a durable, breathable fabric that’s a joy to sew with.
Like Lasenby cotton, Tana Lawn™ cotton is produced in Liberty’s Italian mill and undergoes rigorous quality control. The skilled technicians ensure every strand of ultra-fine cotton meets the highest standard.
Woven from 70 and 100 ply yarns, Tana Lawn™ cotton is sturdier than other sewing fabrics yet remains silk-like to the touch. It’s also machine washable and available in a selection of stunning designs, making it perfect for sewing statement fashion pieces and accessories.
Create beautiful pieces with high-quality fabrics from Liberty
A crafter is only as good as their fabrics, which is why it’s essential you choose the right materials for your project.
Lasenby cotton is the perfect choice for quilters, while Tana Lawn™ cotton is ideal for sewists and dressmakers. Both these fabrics will ensure your finished projects look beautiful and maintain their shape and standard.
Shop a range of high quality fabrics over on Liberty
Now you know all about high-quality fabrics, it’s time to go shopping!
Head over to Liberty and explore their range of cotton fabrics today.
