Popular Lining Fabrics

A good lining is like a secret ingredient in Grandma’s best recipes. Linings have the power to change the shape and drape of a garment, creating a better overall finished product. Linings serve fashionable and functional purposes. With many lining options, it can be tricky to decide which is the best fit for your garment, so consider this post a quick guide for selecting the perfect lining for your projects with ease.

When choosing the perfect lining for a project, keep the color and compatibility of the outer fabric in mind. The weight of the outer fabric should be similar to that of the lining. It should be a color that compliments the outer fabric to create a cohesive, overall finish. Also, keep in mind that the perfect lining should work to enhance the original garment, whether it provides additional opacity in coverage, extra warmth, or other functions.

Popular Lining Fabrics

Silk

Silk is a versatile lining option used to achieve different results. Silk satins are commonly used options that are lightweight and smooth with a finish suitable for blouses, lingerie, bottoms, and bridal gowns. Silk is expensive, but some variations are more cost-efficient, like china silk, which is lightweight with a nice drape.

Cotton

Cotton is a low-cost lining option that is breathable, moisture-wicking, and quite soft. Also available in thin variations, it won’t add bulk to the garment when applied as a lining.

Cupro

A cross between silk and cotton, cupro brings many good qualities to the table including durability, breathability, and anti-static properties. Men’s jackets, vests, and pants are good uses for cupro lining. Cupro lining will make wool suits more comfortable and soft to the touch.

Viscose

Viscose lining drapes like a dream and feels comparable to silk when touched. 100% viscose is a popular lining choice because it is anti-static, soft, and lightweight. Bemberg viscose is another good option.

Acetate

When looking for a lining for special occasion wear, acetate is a good option for items that don’t get worn for everyday affairs. Its inexpensive price point is an added benefit to its breathability and soft hand.

Polyester

Ready-to-wear garments are commonly lined with polyester, most simply because it is cost-effective. It does have additional benefits like being strong, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to care for.

Rayon

Because it is made with thin fibers, rayon is a good lining option that is also soft and breathable. Different rayon variations like Bemberg, anti-static twill, and crepe back offer unique properties desired in a lining.

Other

Insulating lining, stretch lining, and interlining are also options.

Good insulating lining options for the winter months are wool, fleece, and faux fur. They create a very warm garment. A stretch lining is perfect for sewing with knit garments. Interlining is an extra layer that is inserted between the outer fabric and the interlining that provides more insulation and comfort.

The right lining will drape, feel, and complement the garment by providing elements like opacity or volume. Today, there are many lining options available to suit various price points and needs to ensure that any garment has a lining that properly completes it.

Which lining fabric is your go-to when sewing? Leave a comment below!