Cotton: Properties & Sewing Tips | Fabric Guide

Cotton is a pleasantly light, skin-friendly and robust natural fabric with low allergy potential. The natural fiber can absorb up to 20% of its own weight in moisture, is tear-resistant and also breathable. Cotton is one of the most commonly used textile fibers worldwide and is particularly popular for everyday clothing and home textiles.

Properties of Cotton

High absorbency - absorbs up to 20% of its own weight in moisture
Tear-resistant and durable, highly resilient even when wet
Skin-friendly and hypoallergenic, ideal for sensitive skin
Breathable and comfortable to wear at various temperatures
Easy to dye and available in many colors and patterns

Uses for Cotton

T-shirts, shirts and blouses for everyday wear

Bed linen and sheets for restful sleep

Towels and bath materials

Underwear and close-fitting clothing

Children's clothing and baby wear

Care Instructions

1 Washable at 30-60 degrees, white cotton even up to 95 degrees

2 Best dried hanging on a clothesline

3 Iron at maximum 200 degrees, use steam for wrinkles

4 Wash colored cotton inside out at max. 30 degrees on gentle cycle

Sewing Tips for Cotton

Wash before sewing: Wash your cotton fabric inside out before first processing. Cotton can shrink slightly during the first wash, so pre-washing is important for accurate results.

Choose the right needle: Use a universal needle size 70-80mm depending on fabric weight. All-purpose thread works best. For thicker cotton fabrics like canvas, a stronger needle may be needed.

Finish edges properly: To prevent fraying, finish all seam allowances with a zigzag stitch. Alternatively, you can use an overlock machine for professional results.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cotton

Does cotton shrink when washing?

Yes, cotton can shrink by 3-5% during the first wash. We recommend pre-washing the fabric before cutting. Wash at the recommended temperature and dry gently.

Is cotton suitable for allergy sufferers?

Yes, cotton is hypoallergenic and very suitable for people with sensitive skin or allergies. The natural fiber does not irritate the skin and is particularly gentle. Organic cotton is even more skin-friendly.

Which cotton type is the best quality?

The highest quality cotton varieties are Egyptian Mako cotton, Sea-Island cotton from the USA, and Pima cotton from Peru. These have particularly long fibers, are softer and more durable than standard cotton.

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Cotton at Stoffmarkt

Visit one of our fabric markets and discover a wide selection of quality fabrics at great prices.

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