Best fabric for crafts?

Rosie1978

Hello,

I'm planning on making a few bits for Christmas - things are tight and I've discovered some really cute ideas like chicken doorstops! There were some great craft projects actually on The Guardian website, believe it or not.

But when I go to buy material - I'm confused! Being new to sewing I don't know what type of material to get for crafts - for things like homemade doorstops, christmas decorations etc. I also want to make some cute bunting for a 'garden party' hamper I want to make for my SIL.

Can anyone recommend a fabric please? Should I be going for just cotton or is there a material that frayed less and is still hard wearing.

Sorry to sound like a dunce - I am a total newbie at this sewing malarkey .

Thanks!

PootleFlump_3

For doorstops I would use cotton. You could use polycotton but 100% cotton is best. You will also probably need to get interfacing (it gives firmness to the fabric. For cotton buy medium weight. Iron on is probably easiest for doorstops and stuff (you dont need it for felt). Ive posted a good cheap ebay seller below. For bunting you could use cotton or felt. If using cotton you can either sew 2 pieces together with the right sides (the side with the design) together then leave a gap and turn the right way out or you can just make a double fold on each side and stitch. You can also use felt which wont fray and doesnt need a seam (felt can be quite expensive depending on what kind you get). Depends what Xmas deccies you were wanting to make but again felt is a good option if its for baubles and stuff. We have a sewing forum on here if you wanted to join us and there is a no chat thread with loads of links to tutorials etc. Just shout if you have any other questions. Loads of us on here that sew and here to help. x

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/2169321 (sewing chit chat)

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/3074510 (no chat thread with tutorial links)

http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Richards-Fabrics-and-Trimmings/_i.html?_nkw=interfacing&submit=Search&_sid=84815004 (interfacing supplier)

http://whipup.net/2007/12/18/tutorial-bunting-flags/ (tutorial for one style of cotton bunting)

http://www.oneshetwoshe.com/2009/11/felt-bunting-craft-tutorial-she-lupin.html (tutorial for felt bunting)

There are loads of other tutorials on the web too. x

Rosie1978

Thank you so much! That's fab! I'll post some pictures of how I get on...if I work out the right end the thread the needle!!!:rotfl: