What is muslin and what can be sewn from it?

Since the birth of the home for Charlotte's fabric shop, I knew that among the fabric shelves there would definitely be the fantastic MUSLIN. (you can view the collection here). Why I love it and how it differs from regular cotton fabric?

WHAT IS MUSLIN FABRIC?

So, let's start from the beginning - what is muslin fabric (Double Gauze)? Simply put, it is a 100% cotton fabric, but what makes it so special is that it is made from two (hence double) loosely woven cotton layers that are seamlessly connected together with small stitches at regular intervals. In simpler terms, it is two layers of muslin fabric joined together. Not only that, but unlike cotton poplin or canvas, it has a slightly looser, open weave that gives the fabric more texture and lightness.

COTTON MUSLIN PROPERTIES

• The more you wash it, the softer it becomes
• Made from 100% cotton
• Breathable, perfectly suited for summer fabrics
• Quick drying
• It has a naturally crumpled texture that you can iron out if you wish, or leave it for a more expressive look.
• It can also be in one, two, or three layers of gauze
• Muslin fabrics can have more or less woven "grid lines"

 SHOULD MUSLIN BE WASHED BEFORE SEWING?

Washing the fabric before sewing is not only recommended for muslin, but it is good practice to wash the fabric beforehand to ensure shrinkage and color fastness.

When you take the freshly washed muslin out of the washing machine, don't be alarmed that it has become smaller and more wrinkled. If you want to regain a smoother appearance, iron it. However, personally, I leave it unironized because the wrinkles are part of this fabric's unique charm.

I admit, I don't always wash it before sewing. For the sake of saving time, I recently sewed a dress without washing it first. I cut it a couple of centimeters larger and considering the loose fit of the dress, I was satisfied with the result. 

This is what my dress looks like after washing.

WHAT TO SEW FROM MUSLIN FABRIC?

• summer dresses
• shirts and blouses;
• rompers;
• light summer pants;
• blankets;
• for cars
• and many, many other projects
• 

 Since muslin is lightweight and breathable, it is especially suitable for summer clothing when you want to catch a slight breeze and avoid a hot and sweaty feeling. I love to dress the kids in it indoors all year round because it is very soft and comfortable.

When choosing to sew clothing, opt for a loose style pattern that will suit the soft, crumpled look of the material. 

Choose a clothing piece that is loosely draping or more relaxed, rather than tightly fitted. The fabric has drape, but it will also hold the shape of the garment a bit, making it perfect for flattering dresses or voluminous sleeves.

SUITABLE PATTERNS FOR MUSLIN

• BURDA children's shirt 127 | 02/19
• BURDA Linen Dress 119| 07/21
• ETSY Pajamas 

SEWING AND CUTTING

Be careful when cutting so that the airy fabric does not get distorted. 

It's better to use clips instead of pins (you can leave the needle holes).

 Sewing muslin is easy, I recommend using a wider stitch and sewing with universal sewing needles 80/12. 

Threads for sewing machines and overlocks are used Amanda Arena 120 (view the shades here)

The small helper for straight seams is this magnet-view.

If you have an overlock, finish the edges with it.

The French seam is another good option - how to sew it watch the video

If you don't have an overlocker and don't want to sew French seams, use a zigzag stitch.  

I hope my tips for sewing muslin were helpful and will inspire you to create beautiful and natural things that will bring you joy and delight others.

If you want natural fabrics in your wardrobe as well, take a look Sharon fabric on shelves. 

Have a creative day, Sniedze!