Calico

How is Calico Fabric made?

Calico fabric is made by weaving cotton yarns together on a loom. The fabric will be raw or ‘loomstate’, meaning it is not cleaned, bleached or processed in any way.

Can you Dye Calico Fabric?

It is easy to dye calico fabric with reactive fabric dye to achieve a wide range of colours. However, it is essential to note that if the fabric is loomstate (not pre-washed), some treatment is required before dying to ensure even absorbency.

What are some uses of Calico material?

Calico is commonly used for a variety of crafting projects, such as quilting, dressmaking and home decor. Due to its versatile nature, it is also used to make bags, aprons and other utility items thanks to its strength and durability. Calico is often used as a base cloth to make pillowcases, duvets and bedding ensembles. For any of these applications, loomstate calico should be pre-washed as there will be significant shrinkage.

It is also widely used by the fashion industry for toiles. A toile is a version of a sewing pattern that you make in order to check the size and fitting of the garment before you cut it into your final intended fabric for the project.

Properties of Calico Fabric:

1. Biodegradable: Calico is a natural fabric made from 100% cotton. It is biodegradable and will compost easily.

2. Affordable Fabric: Calico is a much cheaper cotton fabric to produce and it is widely used in the fashion industry for toiles, home décor and tote bags.

3. Must Pre-wash: Calico fabric will shrink when washed and dried, so it is best to pre-wash it before using it in a project.

4. Versatile: Calico fabric can be used for a wide range of projects, from quilting and dressmaking to home decor and utility items.

5. Durable: Calico fabric is made from sturdy cotton fibres, making it a durable and long-lasting choice for projects.