All About Poplin and Lawn Fabrics
LA Finch Fabrics has recently brought in some amazing quality poplin and lawn fabrics! These are lesser know fabric types, but they are good fabrics to sew for beginners. Read on to learn the differences between these fabrics.
What is poplin fabric?
Cotton poplin is a densely woven plain weave fabric. It is considered medium weight. It is very crisp and has a stiff drape.
What is lawn fabric?
Cotton lawn is a plain weave woven fabric. It is lightweight and soft. It has a bit more drape than poplin but is still not considered a drapey fabric due to the cotton composition.
How to wash poplin and lawn
Cotton poplin and lawn should be washed before sewing. Secure the edges with serging or pinking shears before washing to reduce fraying. Cotton lawn and poplin will shrink. Both fabrics can be tumbled dried; remove promptly from the dryer to prevent wrinkles.
How to cut Poplin and Lawn
Use a sharp rotary cutter to cut poplin and lawn. These fabrics can fray and warp, so handle with care after cutting.
How to sew Poplin and Lawn
Use a universal needle size 80/12 for poplin. Lawn is light enough that you may need to go down a size to a 70/10. Test on scraps to ensure the needle is not punching large holes or causing runs in the fabric.
How to care for poplin and lawn garments
Care for your poplin and lawn garments in the same manner that you pre-washed.
Choosing poplin vs lawn for a garment
Both poplin and lawn are mid- to light-weight woven fabrics, but they are not necessarily interchangeable. Choose poplin for garments that require stiffness, like a skirt or dress with volume. Choose lawn when you need just a touch of softness but still want to maintain style lines, like a delicate blouse.
Conclusion
Poplin and lawn are often overlooked, but they can both be amazing fabrics when used properly. Poplin offers volume and shape without extra stabilizers. Lawn has unmatched softness. Find both of these apparel fabrics in stock here at LA Finch Fabrics.
Pattern suggestions for poplin
Love Notions Glissando Pants or Skirt
Pattern suggestions for lawn
Helen’s Closet Orchard Dress (free)