Crepe-backed Satin

Satin is one of the most elegant fabrics in production. The shiny surface, the soft hand, and the luster of the colors are a beautiful addition to any fabric collection. Satin is often woven with a pebbly-crepe back side, which doubles the usefulness of the fabric.

Most crepe-backed satin will need to be hand-washed or dry-cleaned, to retain the luster of the fabric. To handwash, use a few drops baby shampoo in cool water, rinse well, then roll in a towel to remove excess moisture. Lay flat to dry.

Sharp (quilting) needles are preferred for use in satin fabric. Use the smallest needle you can see to thread (70/10 is a good starting point). Cotton, cotton/polyester, all polyester, or silk threads are all good choices for construction.

Standard straight seams, 2.0-2.5 length, are good for most construction. If the garment is cut on the bias, use a small zigzag, 2.0 length, 1.5-2.0 width, to stretch with the bias of the fabric. Hems can be hand or machine rolled, machine topstitched, or hand blind-hemmed. For seam finishes, think thin. Use a 2 thread serged stitch, rayon seam binding, or tiny French seams for the most elegant effects.

To maintain the softness of the fabric, use a third layer of the satin as self-interfacing. If you prefer a fusible, use the thinnest possible, such as Touch-of-Gold. For a thin, crisp, sew-in interfacing, use silk organza.

Blouses, skirts, dresses, quilted garments, dressy tanks and tees, full pants, evening wear, scarves, stoles, camisoles, bridal wear

Use both sides of the fabric in the same garment; the body of the garment in the shiny satin side, and any trim in the crepe side. This is an elegant, upscale touch, and the trim is a perfect match!

If you have rough hands, wet them and rub salt or sugar over your hands, then rinse and dry. This will keep your hands from snagging the satin fabric.