Quilting Lining is a layer of fabric sewn inside a garment to add warmth, comfort, and protection. It can also be used to hide construction seams and make it easier to put on a jacket or coat, or to simply add a touch of luxury.
Linings come in a wide variety of fabrics, from cotton to silk to fleece. Usually, the lining will match or complement the outer fabric to create a matching look. Linings can also be made from recycled clothing or other scraps of material, or they can be purchased ready-made.
When choosing a fabric for a lining, consider the weight and drape of the material. Lightweight fabrics such as lawn, voile, and batiste are good choices for summer garments. For velvet and brocade jackets, satin and silk crepe are ideal. Linings can be a little tricky to work with, however. Depending on the fabric, they can stretch and shrink at different rates, making it necessary to sew them together with small stitches and a larger seam allowance than usual.
For most sewing projects, it is recommended to use a cotton lining fabric that matches the outer garment, such as lawn or cotton batiste. When selecting the material, consider the thread count as well as its durability. A higher thread count will give the lining a smoother finish. A lower thread count will cause the lining to tear more easily, so be sure to purchase quality lining fabric.
When working with a thicker material such as linen, it is important to use a smaller thread count and a slightly larger seam allowance than you would with cotton lining. This is because linen unravels easily, and if it is not sewn correctly, the lining will become saggy and loose over time. For this reason, it is generally recommended to use spray starch on lining fabric to help it hold its shape during the sewing process.
Linen can be a great choice for a lining as it is all-natural and feels cozy against the skin. It comes in many different thicknesses, including a denser version known as quilter’s cotton that is more durable and sturdy than regular cotton. However, experienced quilters warn against mixing linen with other types of lining material, as they may stretch and shrink at different rates.
Lastly, flannel is another popular lining fabric for winter garments, as it is both warm and comfortable to wear. Flannel can be expensive, but it is a high-quality fabric that will last for years to come. When purchasing flannel, be sure to examine the fabric for a high-quality finish, such as a soft sheen or a brushed surface.
A quilted lining is a double-faced material that consists of a piece of lining fabric sewn on both sides of a thin sheet of batting material. The batting can be cotton or polyester, and is typically held together by decorative stitching in the shape of diamonds. Quilted lining is great for creating stylish quilts, or it can be used as a simple blanket.