Pattern Tips and Fabric Choices
Let the Pattern Help You!
Fabric Choices for Shirts, Blouses, Dresses,  
   Jackets, and Pants

Fibers and Fabrics—Things to Consider
Fiber types and characteristics
Fabric Construction
Straighten Fabric and Cut on Grain
Fabric Care Considerations

Quick Fabric Tests to Guarantee Sewing Success
TEST 1: Does It Wrinkle?
TEST 2: The 10 Foot Rule—Do the Fabrics Blend?
TEST 3: Will You Need to Steam-Shrink
   Before Cutting?
TEST 4: Will the Fabric Shine When Pressed?
TEST 5: Will the Fabric Ease?
TEST 6: Will Seams and Darts Sew and
   Press Well?
TEST 7: Can I Get Even Gathers in
   Lightweight Fabrics?
TEST 8: What Is “Turn of Cloth?”

Pati’s Sewing Decisions—Two Patterns, Four Fabrics Simple Jacket Style—Heavy and Light Fabrics
Detailed Jacket Style—Heavy and Light Fabrics

Let’s Go Shopping! A Trip to the Fabric Store
Image consultant Ethel Harms shows Pati and Katrina how to shop with the color palettes she created for them. You will learn about matching fabrics to your personal coloring.

The Six Easiest Fabrics to Sew