The Anatomy of Fabric

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Does fabric really have an anatomy?  It’s just a flat piece of cloth right?  I love how she explains these must know basics for fabric and sewing. These are great tips any beginning sewist should know!There are actual part to fabric – and it’s important to understand what they are to help you sew pieces properly.  this is on e of the basics that get’s glossed over too much and is key in being a successful sewist.
Here in the video you’ll learn (and see) the following terms:

Selvage – the unusable binding at the edge of the cloth with printer’s marks and other information

Right Sides together or wrong side together – This refers to the printed (right) and the not printed (wrong) sides of the fabric.  When instructions say right sides together – it means that the printed side of the material is touching.

Lengthwise and crosswise grain – this is referring to the weave of the fabric.  How pieces of a pattern are cut on the grain can affect how they fall on the body.

On the fold – is a term often used to refer to the crease half way across the material (how it is on the bolt)  When you cut out patterns “on the fold” it’s to make a large complete piece.

Bias – 45 Degree angle from the selvage – the material has the greatest stretch at this angle (it’s what bias tape is made from).

It’s important to know these terms because patterns and tutorials use them frequently.  Designers know the properties of fabric and use them in their creations to manipulate the fabric how they want.

You can see exactly what I’m talking about in the video below.

Do you have a favorite place to buy fabric?  Let me know where in the comments!

Working With Different Fabrics:

More How to Sew Lessons:

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