When starting your quilting journey, one of the most important considerations is the fabric you use. Quilting cotton and dressmaking cotton may seem similar at first glance, but they are tailored for very different purposes. Understanding the difference can make or break the success of your quilting project.
What Makes Quilting Cotton Unique?
Quilting cotton is crafted with quilters in mind, offering a host of features that make it perfect for piecing and layering. The construction of quilting cotton is what sets it apart from regular dressmaking cotton:
- Quality: Quilting cotton is made to a premium standard, ensuring consistent texture and durability.
- Weave: A denser weave reduces the risk of fraying and makes the fabric easier to cut and sew.
- Thread Count: With more threads per inch, quilting cotton feels crisper and softer at the same time.
- Durable and Shape-Holding: It’s a fabric that’s designed to last, perfect for quilts meant to be cherished for generations.
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Finish: Unlike dressmaking cotton, quilting cotton is less drapey, making it ideal for projects that require structure.
Key Features of Quilting Cotton
If you’re still wondering why experienced quilters swear by quilting cotton, let’s dive deeper into its features:
- Durability: Thanks to its high thread count and tight weave, quilting cotton is less prone to fraying, stretching, or shrinking.
- Strength: Long staple fibres make the fabric stronger and reduce lint production, ensuring a clean and enjoyable quilting process.
- Breathability: Quilting cotton is breathable yet firm, perfect for the layered design of quilts.
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Weave Simplicity: Most quilting cottons are made with a plain weave—one warp thread woven with one weft thread—ensuring consistent quality and structure.
Choosing the Best Cotton for Quilting
Not all cotton is created equal. For quilting, opt for a high-quality medium-weight cotton with a tight weave and a high thread count—typically around 140-160 gsm with a thread count of 70 threads per inch. At Fabrics Galore, we stock a wide range of quilting cottons, with widths of 112–115 cm as standard and some extending to 150 cm which are great for quilt backings.
How to Identify Quilting Cotton
Before starting your project, ensure the fabric is suitable for quilting by checking for these features:
- Medium Weight: Quilting cotton is heavier than many dressmaking cottons but not as heavy as upholstery fabric.
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Shape Retention: Its firm structure helps it hold its shape well during and after sewing.
Types of Quilting Cotton
Quilting cotton comes in a variety of styles and finishes, each offering unique characteristics. Here are some popular options, which we stock at Fabrics Galore:
- Cotton Poplin: Lightweight and crisp, perfect for piecing together intricate patterns. However, it isn’t well suited to hand quilting.
- Blenders: Subtly patterned fabrics that blend seamlessly with bolder designs.
- Batik Cottons: Hand-dyed with vibrant and unique patterns.
- Brushed Cotton: Softer and warmer, ideal for cosy winter quilts.
Tips for Tools and Materials
For a successful quilting experience, consider the following:
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Needles and Thread: Use a high-quality thread to match the strength of quilting cotton, paired with a sharp or quilting needle for precision. At Fabrics Galore you can purchase high quality threads to match your quilt colour and needles suitable for quilting projects.
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When it comes to patchwork and quilting, almost any cotton fabric can be used, including those traditionally intended for dressmaking, such as poplin and lawn. However, one key consideration is the weight of the fabric. It's generally best to use fabrics of similar weight throughout your project to ensure consistency in the quilt top's appearance and structure. For example, mixing lightweight lawn with standard quilting cotton in the same quilt top is not recommended, as the difference in weights can lead to challenges in sewing and an uneven finish.
Can I use Dressmaking Cottons for Quilting?
The differences between quilting cotton and dressmaking cotton depend largely on the specific type of dressmaking cotton, as this category covers a wide range of fabrics.
Some dressmaking cottons, like voile, are very lightweight and generally too delicate for quilting. On the other hand, cotton lawn, such as Liberty Tana Lawn, is a popular choice among some quilters for its fine texture and beautiful prints. If you choose to use lawn for patchwork, it’s best to pair it with other lawn fabrics rather than heavier quilting cottons to maintain consistency in weight and structure.
Cotton poplin is another dressmaking fabric that works well for patchwork, but like lawn, it is better suited to machine quilting than hand quilting. This is because both lawn and poplin have a tighter weave, making them more challenging to sew by hand.
By understanding these differences, you can choose the right fabrics for your quilting projects and ensure a beautiful and durable result.
Best-Selling Quilting Cottons at Fabrics Galore
Blue cotton poplin and London Town fabrics
Tropical Fish Cotton and Brushed Cotton Shacklebolt
Ask Our Experts about Quilting Cottons
At Fabrics Galore, we’re proud to offer a gorgeous range of quilting cottons, from blenders to batiks, all selected to help you create quilts you’ll treasure forever. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting out, understanding your materials will elevate your projects to new heights. Explore our collection today and bring your quilting vision to life. Alternatively, if you are just starting out and unsure about the best cottons for quilting please call our experienced team at our fabric shop in London for friendly advice.
