Collection: Stretch Fabric
Our collection of stretch fabrics are suitable for dressmaking projects where comfort, a good fit and flexibility are desired. If you're looking for garment fabrics that move with you and look fabulous, our diverse selection of stretch fabric has you covered. Read on to discover the different types of stretch fabrics we offer and find answers to common questions about working with stretch fabrics.
Types of Stretch Fabrics:
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Elastane/Spandex: Elastane, also known as Spandex, is a common stretch fabric that provides good recovery and elasticity. With its exceptional stretch and recovery properties, elastane is a popular stretch fabric to blend with cotton for casual wear like sweatshirts or t shirts or for fitted dresses like wrap dresses. It allows for movement and flexibility.
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Jersey Knit: Jersey knit fabrics are soft, comfortable, and versatile. They have a good amount of stretch, making them ideal for sewing t-shirts, dresses and loungewear. Most of our jersey fabrics have up to 5% elastane with 95% cotton for a lovely soft texture.
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Stretch Denim: Combining the classic look of denim with added stretch for a perfect fit, stretch denim fabrics offer both style and comfort. It is perfect for making jeans, shorts, jackets, or even skirts and dresses. Fabrics Galore's high quality stretch denim fabrics contain 2% Spandex for just the right amount of stretch.
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Stretch Velvet: Luxurious and elegant, stretch velvet fabrics add a touch of glamour to any dressmaking project. With a 5% Spandex composition, our stretch fabrics offer comfort while retaining the unique texture and softness associated with velvet. Stretch velvet is commonly used for making dresses, evening wear, and occasion wear.
You can find out more on our blog about choosing the right stretch fabric for your project.
Common Questions about Stretch Fabrics:
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How much stretch should I expect? The amount of stretch varies depending on the type of fabric. Spandex can offer significant stretch, while other fabrics like stretch denim and jersey knits tend to have a more moderate stretch. When selecting a fabric, consider the amount of stretch required for your project and choose accordingly.
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How do I sew stretch fabrics? It's advisable to use a ballpoint needle, stitch with a zigzag or stretch stitch to allow for movement, and use a thread suitable for stretch fabrics.
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How do I care for stretch fabrics? Most stretch fabrics are relatively low-maintenance and can be machine washed on a gentle cycle. However, it's recommended to check the specific care instructions for each fabric type. Avoid tumble drying if possible to minimise fabric shrinkage.
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Which dressmaking projects are best suited for stretch fabrics? Stretch fabrics are highly versatile and suitable for various projects. They are commonly used for activewear, loungewear, and close-fitting garments like leggings or dresses.
At Fabrics Galore, we are pleased to offer a diverse selection of high-quality stretch fabrics. Explore our collection and whether you're an experienced dressmaker or a beginner sewist, you'll find the perfect fabric for your next project.
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One stop fabric shop
Welcome to the Fabrics Galore London online store, packed full of beautiful fabrics to inspire your next dressmaking, patchwork quilting, craft or home furnishing sewing project. We stock a huge range of different materials alongside designer fabrics from Liberty, Cath Kidston, Orla Kiely, Laura Ashley, William Morris and Alexander Henry. We source the highest quality fabrics, so whether it be a cotton, linen, viscose, chambray, jersey or wool, we have you covered.Check out our dressmaking fabric for something with drape, fabulous Liberty cotton lawn prints, quilting fabrics for patchwork inspiration or the home furnishing section to pimp your pad. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get sewing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you sell by the metre?
We sell by the half metre on our website (the price is therefore displayed by the half metre) to allow our customers more flexibility. If you wish to buy a metre, you need to buy two units, but don’t worry, it will always be cut in one continuous length.
Can I pay for next day delivery?
We can send your fabric by courier which should arrive the next day, for the additional cost of £12. The simplest way to do this is by sending us an email howdy@fabricsgalore.co.uk or by calling the shop on 0207 738 9589. We would need to know before 1pm, and we are unable to organise a Saturday delivery.
Can I buy your fabrics if I live outside the UK?
Yes, we ship to Europe. For all the details, see our Shipping Page.
Do you send out samples?
We do, our samples are 10 cm by the width of the fabric (usually 112cm or 137cm) and cost 10% of the fabric’s metre price plus £1.50 for postage. Simply go to our Request a Swatch page.
Is there an actual shop I can visit?
Yes, we have a shop in South London. All the fabrics, which are available online (and more) are in the shop alongside a small haberdashery and pattern range.
The address is 52-54 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London, SW11 5RH.
Is it possible to get a wholesale price?
We are a fabric retailer rather than a wholesaler so the short answer is no, but if you are looking for a large quantity of fabric, it is best to email us on howdy@fabricsgalore.co.uk to see if we can help you out.
What does OEKO-TEX 100 mean?
OEKO-TEX 100 means the fabric has been tested for 100 harmful substances. The testing and certification process extends far beyond existing legal requirements, testing not only for substances already banned, but also for chemicals known to be unsafe, but not yet controlled by legislation. Fabrics which meet OEKO-TEX 100 are great for children’s clothing or underwear.
How quickly will I get my order?
All our orders are sent out by Royal Mail First Class so should be with you within a few days of fulfilment and often within 1-2 days. We send fabric out on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday. During busy periods such as sales, deliveries may take slightly longer, and we are always grateful for your patience.
Where do your fabrics come from?
We stock British fabrics as well as fabrics from suppliers all over the world - including Germany, Italy, Taiwan and India.
Will you be at any shows this year?
In recent years we have cut back on the number of shows we attend but we do still go to several. For the full list have a look on our Events Page.
Can I order a specific fabric from a supplier which you stock but isn’t on your website?
We select our fabrics from various ranges to create the interesting collections we offer and it’s rare that we buy the whole range. If you have a specific fabric you are looking for, it’s best to email us to find out if we can help you. Our email address is howdy@fabricsgalore.co.uk
When will out of stock fabrics be available again?
When we sell out of a popular fabric such as our cream bouclé, we will try very hard to get it back in quickly. As soon as it arrives, it will go straight back on our website, and we will notify our customers via social media or our weekly newsletter. If you wanted to sign up so you never miss a thing, subscribe on our simple sign up form
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes, we do have a few different types: you can buy a voucher for Free Postage for a Whole Year gift card. Or you can buy vouchers for £10, £25, £50 or £100 which will be emailed over to you immediately, in case it’s a last-minute gift. See our gift voucher page.
What does GSM mean?
GSM stands for grams per square metre; the higher the number, the thicker and heavier the fabric will be. For example, a denim or a sweatshirt fabric will have a much higher GSM than a satin.
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