Fabric Drape – Sewing Term

The hand-feel and drape of fabric can make or break your sewing project! But what exactly does drape mean?

Drape –

verb 

1. to cover to cover or adorn with or as if with folds of cloth
2. to cause to hang or stretch out loosely or carelessly
3. to arrange in flowing lines or folds
4. the way a fabric hangs or arranges itself in folds

 

 

Drape is the way that a fabric hangs when you hold it up; this is especially important to consider in garment sewing, as you want the fabric to hang appropriately on your body. Lightweight fabrics, such as silk or gauze, are known to have excellent drape (which means that they are loose and flow nicely). Heavier fabrics have less drape and are more stiff when they hang; they are more structured when you sew with them.

The drape will be different depending on the weight and type of fabric you are using. For example, a stiff woven cotton will hang with large volume while a sheer organza will create small cones with less volume. So, it is very important to keep the end project in mind when selecting your fabrics.

Here are a few examples:

So, be sure to consider fabric drape when making your next fabric selection.  Keep your eyes peeled, more sewing terms are on the way.

Ready to learn more about fashion draping? Check out these classes with Paul Gallo.

 

Hello! Are you new here?

Do you want to learn more about sewing? If so, be sure to sign up for our newsletter HERE and never miss a stitch! Daily Sewing Tips, Everyday Projects and Fantastic Inspiration delivered straight to your mailbox!

Bonus- free download with newsletter sign up.

Feel free to connect with me on Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram.  I look forward to getting to know you and stitching up a storm!