Essential Tips for Buying Fabric: Understanding Fabric Bolt Information

If you’re new to sewing, buying fabric can feel overwhelming. Understanding how to read fabric bolt information can make the process much easier. In this beginner’s guide, I’ll walk you through each piece of information on a fabric bolt label. Knowing these key details will help you make informed fabric purchases, whether you’re shopping in-store or online.

When I first started sewing, one of the most difficult things I encountered was buying fabric. I didn’t have much knowledge about how to buy fabric. I just felt so intimidated walking into a big fabric store. One way you can make this a better experience, is by understanding how to read a fabric bolt. Below, I’ve included a comprehensive guide to help you better understand what to look for when buying fabric.

A – Fabric Brand: Why Brand Matters When Buying Fabric

The fabric brand tells you what company made the fabric. When shopping for fabric, I’m drawn to similar brands, since I know their quality and how the fabric wears. Not all bolts will list the fabric brand or designer. The RN number will reveal this information though (see point D about the RN number).

B – Name of Fabric: What the Label Tells You About the Fabric

The name of the fabric arguably provides the most valuable insights. This example is called YWL Floral Clusters DBL Brush Poly Span. The first half of the name reflects the visual aspects. In this case, the print includes yellow floral clusters (YWL Floral Clusters). The second half of the fabric name describes the properties and hand. It is described as a double brushed polyester spandex blend (DBL Brush Poly Span), which means it’s soft and stretchy. It’s not always necessary to check when you’re in a store where you can feel the fabric. However, it’s helpful for online shopping.  It provides an overall idea of what you can expect from the fabric.

C – Fabric Width: Why Knowing the Width is Key to Your Project

This is how wide the fabric is from selvage to selvage. In this example, the fabric is 58 inches.  Some of the most common widths you’ll see while buying fabric are between 36 and 60 inches. However, in some instances, these can range from 24 to 108 inches. Always take the fabric width into account when purchasing fabric. Most sewing patterns will tell you how much fabric to buy based on specific fabric widths.

D – RN Number: How to Identify the Fabric’s Source

The RN Number is a Registered Identification Number. It is issued by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to U.S. businesses. These businesses manufacture, import, distribute, or sell products made of textiles, wool, and fur.  If you’re interested in finding out where your fabric came from, head on over to the FTC website. Type in the RN Number and see what comes up.

E – Fabric Origin: Why a Fabric’s Country of Origin Matters

This discloses where the fabric was made. Anyone looking for fabric made in the U.S.A. or made under fair labor laws would want to look at the origin to see if it aligns with their views. The country of origin can impact everything from quality to price.

F – Fiber Content: The Importance of Knowing What’s in Your Fabric

Fiber content reveals what the fabric is made of.  In this example, the fabric is 85% polyester and 15% spandex. It also helps determine whether natural or synthetic fibers are used. This is a good indicator of how the fabric will perform based on comfort, quality and durability.

G – Care Instructions: How to Keep Your Fabric Looking Great

The care instructions tell you how to care for the fabric. When you purchase a garment (or anything made of fabric for that matter), care instructions are required. If you plan to sell handmade clothing or goods, always include how to care for the fabric.

H – Starting Yardage: What the Starting Yardage Tells You About Inventory

This is how much fabric was originally on the bolt when it was shipped to the store. In this example, the bolt originally had 8 yards of fabric on it. This is mainly for the store’s purpose to track fabric inventory.

I – Price: Understanding Fabric Price Per Yard

The price of the fabric is based on how many yards you purchase. In this example, the price is $15.99 per yard. You don’t always have to buy fabric in 1 yard increments. If you don’t need much, you can request 1/8 yard ($1.99), 1/4 yard ($3.99), 1/2 yard ($7.99), etc. The price reflects how much fabric you purchase.

This is just one example of a fabric bolt. Keep in mind all of them should have similar information. If you can’t find the information you need, just ask the associates in the store. There’s no shame in asking for help. The associates are there for a reason and want to help you!

In conclusion, learning how to read fabric bolt information will help you make confident, informed decisions when buying fabric. Whether you’re a beginner learning how to shop for fabric, or an experienced sewist looking for quality materials, it is crucial to understand fabric details. Knowing fiber content, width, and care instructions will ensure your projects turn out beautifully.

Happy Sewing,

Sarah