Finding the perfect t-shirt is like finding a needle in a haystack. It seems virtually impossible. A t-shirt has to fit the needs of the wearer. The amount of times I’ve had to toss, donate, and pass along t-shirts is unfortunate. I find that some t-shirts are constructed poorly, whether that means being cut off-grain or sewn haphazardly with stray threads or even holes from poor seaming. The best t-shirts start with quality fabric and several must-have properties.
Bamboo
This eco-friendly option has a lot of pros, including its anti-bacterial and moisture-wicking abilities. Bamboo keeps the body temperature down and is perfect for working out.
Rayon Jersey
Typically used for active or outdoor wear with moisture-wicking properties, rayon is a great shirt option, offering breathability that is silky soft with an excellent drape. Rayon was created as a more affordable option for silk.
Organic Cotton
This type of cotton is better for the environment making it more expensive than 100% cotton, but understandably so. This cotton type is softer to the touch than 100% cotton.
100% Cotton
100% cotton is a popular t-shirt option for several reasons, including its colorfastness. It’s ideal for everyday and casual wear, although it’s a bit rougher than other t-shirt fabric options.
Spandex
This fabric is known for its incredible stretch, offering a lot of room for movement and creating a good fit. Spandex is commonly found in activewear.
Cotton Blends
Poly-cotton is common, but there are a ton of cotton blends. These will be somewhat softer than 100% cotton and more stretchy. If the blend is polyester then the fabric will be more heat, water, and wrinkle resistant with the ability to withstand more wear and tear than 100% cotton. A poly-cotton blend gets the best of both fibers, remaining cool from the cotton and strong and wrinkle-resistant from the polyester fibers.
Polyester
A common choice for activewear, polyester is moisture-wicking with the ability to resist mold and mildew. Polyester is resilient: washing, wearing and retaining its shape, color, and original size.
Find some t-shirt pattern inspiration below:
Choosing the right t-shirt fabrics for your project depends heavily on your needs. Consider the weather, activities, and fit before choosing fabric for your next sewing endeavor.
What kind of fabric is your favorite t-shirt? Leave a comment to keep us in the loop.
