Sewing Organic Cotton Fabrics
How to Choose and Use Organic Textiles in Sewing and Craft Projects
Choose the best possible cotton for your next sewing project - organically grown cotton.
When you sew, you’re investing time and effort. For that reason, start with the very best fabrics. For cotton materials, that means organically grown. This fabric is superior in a number of ways.
Defining organic cotton fabric
In the U.S. organic cotton must meet the same standards as any other organically grown crop. The law defines organic, and specifies what fertilizers, and natural pesticides can be used. In order for the products to qualify as organic, American farms must be certified organic.
In this country, over 13 million acres of land are devoted to cotton with a small portion of this being organically grown.
Why choose organic cotton fabrics?
Over 200 agricultural chemicals are used in conventional cotton fields. Worldwide, around $2.8 billion is spent each year on chemicals for this crop. Cotton accounts for 25% of the total pesticide and herbicide use throughout the world. An acre of conventional cotton in the U.S. receives around 13 pounds of pesticides and herbicides along with 300 pounds of synthetic fertilizers annually.
The chemicals used on cotton are detrimental to humans, wildlife, and the environment.
Organic cotton is naturally better since it is grown without these chemicals. In addition, many organic cottons are dyed with natural dyes.
In some cases, no coloring of any sort is needed because some varieties of organic cotton produce naturally colored cotton bolls. These natural shades include tan, mocha, gray, and other pastels as well as reddish-brown. This fabric is sold as undyed cotton.
Though there are some exceptions, organic cotton fabrics are typically finished without the use of harsh, harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde.
All of this means that organic cotton materials are by far the best choice for those with sensitive skin or any kind of skin ailment. Compared to conventional cotton, this feels so soft and luxurious.
Sewing Organic Cotton Fabrics
Treat these like you would any other cotton material so far as cutting and sewing are concerned. Be sure and preshrink. Most cottons tend to shrink the first time they’re washed.
Uses for Organic Cotton Fabrics
- Those with delicate skinshould use organic cotton for anything that comes in direct contact with the body, such as blouses, pajamas, and bathrobes.
- For active wear and form-fitting clothing, organic cotton knits are the best choice. When sewing slacks and jackets, choose organic cotton twill.
- For sportswear, casual clothing, and home décor, Hancock Fabric has an excellent plain weave organic cotton. This is 58 to 60 inches wide, and comes in six colors.
- Organic cotton flannel fabrics can’t be beat when sewing shirts, nightwear, bathrobes, and quilts. This comes in solid colors as well as prints.
- Organic cotton terry cloth is also available. This is perfect for heavy clothing and bathrobes.
- For home furnishings and other items where a heavy fabric is needed, organic cotton canvas is the solution.
