Novelty Fabric

Novelty fabric, also known as loose weave fabric, or open weave fabric, is an interesting option for sewing garments and home decor. Loose weave sewing fabric is woven with yarns that give an uneven irregular look to the fabric. Although, there are loose weave fabrics that are made refined. Example would be fine linens. 

Commonly the fibers are made from natural sources, such as linen, jute, hemp,wool, and cotton to name a few. Boucle, burlap

Fabric Samples

Below are some examples of boulce, linen, cotton guaze and other open weave fabric. Click the image for more information on each sample.

Loose weave fabrics should be considered for simple style garments that do not have a lot of seams or detail.

Raw Silk

Linen

Sewing Patterns

Loose weave fabric ravels easily, so excess pattern pieces are not recommended. The looser the weave, the more simple style should be chosen. Here are some styles that would be suitable for loose weave fabric and the patterns available.

Keep in mind, these are only just a few samples of suitable styles. There are many styles to choose from if you go directly to the sewing pattern websites. 

Home Decor

Loose weave fabrics are great for adding texture and interest to your home decor. Below are some samples of home accessories that may inspire you. The natural look gives a down home feel to your room. The patterns and textures are virtually limitless with online fabrics stores as well as your local fabric stores. 

Linen Pillows

Curtains and Drapery

Depending on your home decor style preference, open weave fabrics can offer an interesting texture dimension to home decor. 

Tips for sewing Novelty Fabric

1. Consider the "with nap" layout with extremely nubby loose weaves. Avoid buttonholes and instead use looped buttons.
2. Pre shrink fabric with a steam iron. Hold your iron slightly above the fabric and dry clean your finished garment.
3. If you have a serger, serge the raw edges of each cut piece. This will secure the fabric and eliminate unravelling before you construct your garment.
4. If you do not have an over lock machine, use double fold bias binding. Sew the binding on each side of the seam allowance to secure the edges.
5.  Mark with tailor tacks or tailor chalk to mark the cut out pieces. 
   
   
6. Use cotton or polyester thread A standard presser foot. 
   
   
7. Use an 80/12 machine needle with 2.5 mm stitch length.
8. To ensure your hem does not ravel, use a double fold bias tape around the seam edge and hand sew the hem to preferred length. 
   
   
   Check this site for interesting creative use of novelty fabric