Clothing
Buy Fabric by the Roll: Your Ultimate Guide to Smart Shopping
The Ultimate Guide to Buying Fabric by the Roll
When it comes to sourcing fabric, whether for crafting, upholstery, or fashion design, purchasing fabric by the roll can be a smart and cost-effective choice. This guide will delve into the various types of fabric available by the roll, their applications, and tips for purchasing, ensuring you make informed decisions for your projects.
Comparison of Fabric Types and Applications
| Fabric Type | Description | Common Applications | Recommended Retailers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Soft, breathable, and versatile fabric | Apparel, quilting, home decor | icefabrics.com, fabricdepot.com |
| Polyester | Durable and wrinkle-resistant | Upholstery, curtains, outdoor gear | www.ifabric.com, bigzfabric.com |
| Canvas | Heavy-duty and robust material | Bags, tents, upholstery, art projects | www.bigduckcanvas.com, www.joann.com |
| Oilcloth | Water-resistant, easy to clean | Tablecloths, outdoor furniture | www.oilclothbytheyard.com |
| Fleece | Soft and warm fabric | Blankets, jackets, crafts | www.fabricdirect.com, www.online-fabrics.co.uk |
| Faux Fur | Soft and luxurious appearance | Costumes, home decor | bigzfabric.com, icefabrics.com |
| Linen | Lightweight and breathable | Summer clothing, table linens | fabricdepot.com, www.ifabric.com |
Types of Fabric by the Roll
Cotton Fabric
Cotton is one of the most popular fabrics available by the roll due to its softness and breathability. It is widely used for apparel, quilting, and home décor. Retailers like icefabrics.com and fabricdepot.com offer a vast selection of cotton fabrics in various colors and patterns, making it easy to find the perfect material for your project.
Polyester Fabric
Polyester is known for its durability and resistance to wrinkles, making it ideal for upholstery and curtains. It is also commonly used in outdoor gear because of its weather-resistant properties. Online stores like www.ifabric.com and bigzfabric.com provide a range of polyester options, ensuring you can find what you need for your specific application.
Canvas Fabric
Canvas is a heavy-duty fabric that is perfect for making bags, tents, and upholstery. Its robust nature ensures longevity and resilience, which is why many retailers, including www.bigduckcanvas.com and www.joann.com, specialize in offering canvas by the roll.
Oilcloth
Oilcloth is a water-resistant material that is easy to clean, making it great for outdoor furniture and tablecloths. For those interested in oilcloth, websites like www.oilclothbytheyard.com offer a range of patterns and colors to choose from.
Fleece
Fleece is a soft and warm fabric often used for making blankets, jackets, and various crafts. Retailers such as www.fabricdirect.com and www.online-fabrics.co.uk have a wide array of fleece fabrics available by the roll, perfect for any winter project.
Faux Fur
Faux fur provides a luxurious look and feel without the ethical concerns of real fur. It is commonly used in costumes and home décor. You can find various options at bigzfabric.com and icefabrics.com, where faux fur is sold by the roll.
Linen
Linen is a lightweight and breathable fabric that is perfect for summer clothing and table linens. Many retailers, including fabricdepot.com and www.ifabric.com, offer linen by the roll, allowing you to stock up for seasonal projects.
Technical Features Comparison of Fabric by the Roll
| Fabric Type | Weight (GSM) | Width (Inches) | Durability | Washability | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | 150-400 | 44-60 | Moderate | Machine washable | $5 – $20 per yard |
| Polyester | 150-300 | 54-60 | High | Machine washable | $4 – $15 per yard |
| Canvas | 280-600 | 54-60 | Very High | Spot clean | $8 – $25 per yard |
| Oilcloth | 200-400 | 54-60 | Moderate | Wipe clean | $10 – $30 per yard |
| Fleece | 200-300 | 58-60 | Moderate | Machine washable | $5 – $15 per yard |
| Faux Fur | 300-500 | 58-60 | Moderate | Dry clean recommended | $10 – $30 per yard |
| Linen | 150-300 | 44-60 | Moderate | Machine washable | $8 – $20 per yard |
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Conclusion
Choosing fabric by the roll can provide significant savings and convenience for a variety of projects. Understanding the different types available, their applications, and their features can help you make the best decisions for your fabric needs. Retailers such as icefabrics.com, fabricdepot.com, and bigzfabric.com are great resources for purchasing quality fabric by the roll.
FAQ
What is fabric by the roll?
Fabric by the roll refers to fabric sold in large quantities, typically in continuous lengths that can range from several yards to hundreds of yards. This is ideal for bulk purchases for projects like upholstery, clothing, or crafts.
Where can I buy fabric by the roll?
You can purchase fabric by the roll from various online retailers such as icefabrics.com, fabricdepot.com, and www.bigduckcanvas.com, among others.
What types of fabric are available by the roll?
There are many types of fabric available by the roll, including cotton, polyester, canvas, oilcloth, fleece, faux fur, and linen. Each type serves different purposes based on its characteristics.
What are the benefits of buying fabric by the roll?
Buying fabric by the roll can be more economical for large projects, reduces waste, and provides a consistent supply of material for ongoing projects.
How do I choose the right fabric for my project?
Consider the purpose of your project, the fabric’s weight, durability, and washability. For example, choose cotton for clothing and polyester for outdoor use.
Can I return fabric purchased by the roll?
Return policies vary by retailer. Many offer a 30-day return policy for unaltered fabric, while others may have stricter policies.
Is fabric by the roll more expensive than fabric by the yard?
Typically, purchasing fabric by the roll can be more cost-effective than buying smaller cuts, as bulk pricing often provides discounts.
How do I calculate how much fabric I need?
Measure the area or item you are covering and consult a fabric calculator or guidelines specific to your project type to determine the yardage required.
What is the best way to store fabric by the roll?
Store fabric rolls in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Consider using fabric bins or shelves to keep them organized and prevent damage.
Are there any special considerations when washing fabric by the roll?
Always check the care instructions for the specific fabric type. Some may require special washing methods, while others may be machine washable.
