Artisan Support
Choosing the right fabric for your project
MATERIAL:
Each material has their own specific characteristics in terms of breathability, stretchability, crease resistance, climate adaptability etc. Depending on the occasion or function of a project as well as the kind of climate when it will be used, one can choose the optimum fabric type. Fabric like cotton and linen are great for summers. Khadi are handwoven and handspun which lends them more breathability, comfort and an aesthetic appeal. It keeps warm in winters and cool in summers. These are also the simplest to work with so are preferred as Shirting fabric, Kurti fabric, summer dresses. Mulberry silk, being fine and breathable can be used for warmer climate. On the other hand, wild silk are more suited for cooler weather. However both types of Silk are appropriate as special occasion or premium garments.
WEIGHT:
The weight of a fabric is measured in GSM (grams per square meter) and it defines how heavy or light a fabric is. Measuring the fabric weight is a way of measuring the thickness of the material, and differentiating between light-weight, medium-weight, or heavy-weight fabric. It is very important to consider the right weight of fabric one the material has been decided.
These fabrics are light. They tend to be good for year-round wear, and may wrinkle a bit. These fabrics drape well and are great for business wear. Light cotton with a close weave is a great place to begin, as it’s usually easy to sew and often has a light fall.
This category includes year-round fabrics, including many more casual weaves. They tend to hold up against wrinkling fairly well on their own. They do not have any issue with opacity in these fabrics, although whites will still show through somewhat.
These are some of the heaviest fabrics and tend to fall on the more casual side. They tend to hold in heat well and are very durable. Heavy cotton is perfect for items that you want to have more shape, but it’s still really easy to sew. When choosing your heavy cotton, know that it is usually quite stiff and make sure this has been accounted for in the project you choose.
• Pants: Linen (for warmer weather) (160-300gsm), find here.
• Shirts and blouses: Cotton, silk, chambray, cotton, linen (120-160gsm), find here.
• Skirts: Cotton and linen (100-150gsm), find here.
• Dresses/Kurti: Cotton, silk, and linen. (120-160), find here.
• Upholstery: Cotton, Linen, Silk, and Canvas. (250-650gsm), find here.
