Whether you've just finished a sewing project or you're storing yardage for a future one, knowing how to care for your fabric properly makes all the difference. Different fibers have very different needs — what's gentle for cotton can be disastrous for wool. This guide breaks it all down so your fabric (and finished garments) stay beautiful for years to come.
Caring for Wool Fabrics
Wool is a natural protein fiber that requires a little extra attention, but rewards you with incredible longevity when cared for correctly.
- Washing: Hand wash in cool water with a gentle wool-specific detergent (like Eucalan or Woolite). Avoid agitation — gently squeeze the water through the fabric rather than rubbing or wringing.
- Machine washing: Some wools are machine washable on a delicate/wool cycle with cold water. Always check the fabric's care label first.
- Drying: Never put wool in the dryer. Lay flat on a clean towel and reshape while damp. Hanging wet wool will cause it to stretch out of shape.
- Ironing: Use a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric, and press on the wrong side. Use steam and medium heat — never press directly on wool with a dry iron.
- Storage: Fold wool garments rather than hanging them (hanging can cause shoulder bumps over time). Store with cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter moths.
Shop our Premium Coating Wool Blends, Black and Gray Wools, Brown Wools, and Red Wools — all beautiful fibers worth caring for properly.
Caring for Cotton Fabrics
Cotton is one of the most forgiving fabrics to care for, which is part of why it's so beloved for quilting, apparel, and home projects.
- Washing: Machine wash in warm or cold water. Hot water can cause shrinkage, especially in the first few washes — so pre-wash your fabric before cutting if shrinkage is a concern.
- Drying: Tumble dry on medium heat, or line dry to reduce shrinkage and extend the life of the fabric.
- Ironing: Cotton irons beautifully at high heat with steam. Iron on the wrong side for a smoother finish.
- Storage: Store folded in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading over time.
Explore our Quilting Cottons collection and Solids Fabrics for a wide range of cotton options.
Caring for Plaid and Blended Fabrics
Plaid fabrics are often woven from wool, wool blends, or cotton — so care instructions will depend on the fiber content. Always check the selvage or product listing for fiber details.
- Wool plaids: Follow the wool care instructions above. Take extra care when pressing to avoid flattening the texture of the weave.
- Cotton plaids: Machine washable, but wash in cold water to preserve the vibrancy of the colors.
- Blends: When in doubt, follow the care instructions for the most delicate fiber in the blend. A wool-cotton blend should be treated like wool.
Browse our Plaid Fabrics collection to find your next favorite.
Pre-Washing Your Fabric: Should You Do It?
Pre-washing (also called "pre-shrinking") is the practice of washing your fabric before cutting and sewing. Here's a quick guide:
- Yes, pre-wash if you're making a garment or item that will be washed regularly (clothing, quilts, home goods). This prevents your finished project from shrinking after the first wash.
- Skip pre-washing if you're making something that won't be washed (wall hangings, structured bags, interfaced garments that will be dry cleaned).
- For wool coating fabrics intended for coats or jackets, many sewists skip pre-washing and instead have the finished garment dry cleaned. This preserves the fabric's structure and finish.
Storing Fabric Yardage
If you're building a fabric stash (and who isn't?), proper storage keeps your yardage in great condition until you're ready to use it.
- Store fabric in a cool, dry, dark place — light and humidity are the enemies of fabric longevity.
- Fold fabric neatly or roll it around a cardboard tube to prevent permanent creases.
- Keep wool fabrics in breathable cotton bags or pillowcases — avoid plastic, which can trap moisture.
- Label your fabric with fiber content and yardage so you always know what you have.
More Fabric Care Resources
For more detailed washing guidance, check out our earlier post on Washing Recommendations. And if you're not sure what fiber your mystery fabric is, our guide to Fabric Burn Tests can help you identify it before you wash.
Have questions about a specific fabric? We're always happy to help — just reach out. And when you're ready to stock up, explore our full fabric collection and our cozy Fall and Winter Fabrics.