Natural Fiber Fabrics Glossary

Natural Fiber Fabrics

Natural fibers come from plants or animals, making them breathable, comfortable, and often biodegradable. They tend to be easy to sew with, but each type has unique characteristics.

Cotton – Soft, breathable, and easy to sew. Great for beginners! Comes in different weights like lightweight voile, medium-weight quilting cotton, and heavy canvas.

Linen – Made from flax, linen is breathable and gets softer with washing. It wrinkles easily but is great for warm weather garments.

Wool – Comes from sheep and can be thick or lightweight. Warm, naturally elastic, and great for coats, skirts, and suits. Some types, like wool suiting, are beginner-friendly, while knits like merino can be trickier.

Silk – Luxurious and smooth, but often slippery to sew with. Comes in various finishes like charmeuse (shiny) and dupioni (crisp and textured).

Hemp – Similar to linen but more durable and softens over time. A sustainable choice for garments and home textiles.

Bamboo – Soft, breathable, and drapey. Often blended with cotton for a smooth, eco-friendly fabric.