Choosing the right denim
Denim is a timeless fabric known for its durability, versatility, and iconic style. Whether you're a seasoned seamstress or beginner enthusiast, choosing the right denim for your project can make all the difference to your finished garment.
Here’s a guide to help you match the perfect denim to your sewing pattern:
1. Check if the pattern calls for rigid or stretch denim:
Stretch denim contains a small percentage of elastane or spandex, offering flexibility and comfort, whereas a rigid denim will retain its shape.
It's important to check the pattern materials (often on the back of your pattern) because patterns designed for a stretch denim will be drafted with negative ease (pieces are smaller to account for the stretch). Skinny jeans, for instance, often benefit from a slight stretch for ease of movement.
Other patterns call for a rigid denim. The design of pattern pieces will reflect the stability of the rigid denim and the fit of the overall garment. Straight-leg jeans or denim jackets are often designed to take advantage of a more structured rigid denim.
Avoid a saggy bottom or a jacket in which you can't swing your arms! Checking that you're using the right type of denim will go a long way to ensuring your sewing success.
2. Consider the weight:
Denim comes in various weights, usually measured in ounces, ranging from lightweight (4-8 oz per square yard) to heavyweight (12 oz or more per square yard).
If you prefer the metric system as we do, 8oz equals roughly 270 gsm, while a 12oz denim weighs about 400 gms.
The weight affects how the fabric drapes and feels. Opt for mid to heavyweight denim for structured garments, classic jeans, or jackets to ensure the garment holds its shape. Lighter weights are ideal for softer items that you want to move more freely, like wide-leg jeans or skirts. A pattern will often suggest a particular weight, but this is not a hard and fast rule - more of a recommendation. I often consider what season of the year I will be wearing it and adjust the weight accordingly.
At MaaiDesign our denim starts at 8oz (mid-wight) in both stretch and rigid denim. Our heaviest-weight denim is 14oz and is only available as a rigid denim.
3. Consider the Colour:
Denim comes in an array of washes and colours, from classic indigo to vibrant hues and distressed finishes. Darker denims are versatile and develop more dramatic wearing lines (much beloved by denim enthusiasts!) while lighter washes give a more casual appearance.
The image below shows to identical pairs of jeans -same denim, same pattern- where the bottom pair is brand new, and the top one loved, washed and worn extensively over a year or two.
We stock a wide range of stretch denims in solid colours, but if you want to move away from the classic blues and blacks for a rigid denim, consider substituting for a Heavy Cotton Drill or Gabardine.
4. Consider the details:
Lastly, let your personal style shine through. Denim is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit a wide range of tastes and trends. Whether you prefer a classic denim jacket, trendy distressed jeans, or a chic denim dress, the right choice of fabric and details will elevate your project.
Have fun creating unique designs on pockets with top-stitching denim thread , add that professional look with denim hardware and don't forget to add a sewing label.
By carefully matching the right kind of denim to your sewing pattern, you can ensure your finished garment fits well and also looks and feels exactly as you envisioned. Whether you’re aiming for a classic look or experimenting with contemporary trends, denim’s enduring appeal makes it a perfect canvas for your creative sewing projects.
