Suggestions for Apron Fabric?

Question

Hello! I would like to make 5 retro styled aprons for friends and family for Christmas. The patterns I have call for cotton fabrics like calicos and waffle weaves, but I would like to use something heavier that wouldn't wrinkle easily and lays flat. I've already committed one apron to a light weight denim but I need suggestions for the others. I've looked at cotton duck but most are solid colors and I want cute, funky and feminine patterns. So I've focused most of my attention to cotton draperies but so many of these are "dry clean only" - I just don't know where to turn anymore. Any suggestions? I would be so so grateful! BTW - I'm a new sewer (if that isn't obvious). Thanks!!!

Answer 1

Some dry clean fabrics are designated "dry clean only" because they shrink a lot when washed.

If you have found fabric you liked and it is "sturdy" you could purchase a small amount and test it at home. Finish off the edges with a zig zag, measure the fabric then throw it in the washing machine just like you would do if it was regular cotton. If it washes well and the fabric looks fine, then measure it and check for shrinkage. Purchase the fabric for the apron but buy extra fabric to allow for shrinkage and wash well before cutting out the pattern pieces.

I have often purchased "dry clean only" fabric and was able to use it as wash and wear without any problems...as long as I washed it one or two times before cutting the pattern pieces. In fact, some fabrics washed so well, they were better after machine washing!

Answer 2

Don't be intimidated by "dry clean only". There are special dryer sheets that you use at home, and they clean very well.

Also, look in the "bottomweight" section at the fabric store. That's where you will find twill, which may come in patterns that you would like. Look on the end of the bold for washing instructions.
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