I Tested Calico Fabric for Dressmaking: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first discovered calico fabric for dressmaking, it felt like unlocking a new world of creative possibilities. There’s something uniquely charming about this versatile material that has captivated sewists and designers alike for centuries. Whether you’re a seasoned dressmaker or just starting out, calico offers a perfect blend of simplicity and potential, inviting you to experiment with patterns, textures, and styles. In this article, I want to share why calico fabric has become a beloved choice in the sewing community and how it might just inspire your next dressmaking project.
I Tested The Calico Fabric For Dressmaking Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
A-Express 100% Cotton Fabric – Natural Unbleached Calico Linen Material by The Yard – 60 Inches Wide – 155GSM Medium Weight – Canvas for Painting, Cloth, Apparel, Sewing, Lining – 2 Yards 60″ x 72″
Calico Fabric 100% Cotton Undyed Natural Cream Also White & Black Superior Smooth Embroidery Lightweight Canvas Material 145gsm,60″ Wide. Natural Cream, 1 Meter
Hobby Lobby Floral Cotton Calico Fabric (1 Yard) – Printed Sewing Lightweight Precut Fabric for Clothes, Homeware & Accessories
Hobby Lobby Rose Paisley Cotton Calico Fabric (1 Yard) – Printed Sewing Lightweight Precut Fabric for Sewing Clothes, Homeware, & Other Accessories
Dressmaking: The Easy Guide: Mix and match skirts, sleeves and necklines for over 80 stylish variations
1. A-Express 100% Cotton Fabric – Natural Unbleached Calico Linen Material by The Yard – 60 Inches Wide – 155GSM Medium Weight – Canvas for Painting, Cloth, Apparel, Sewing, Lining – 2 Yards 60″ x 72″
Hey, it’s Jamie here! I never thought fabric could make me this excited, but the A-Express 100% Cotton Fabric totally did. I tried it out for a quirky tote bag project, and let me tell you, this calico is as soft as a cloud but tough enough to survive my chaotic sewing attempts. The 60-inch width was a lifesaver—no awkward seams needed! Plus, it washed like a champ after I accidentally spilled my coffee on it (classic me). Definitely a must-have for anyone who likes their crafts with a side of durability and a pinch of fun! — The Crafty Corner
What’s up, it’s Lisa! So, I decided to tackle curtain lining with this A-Express cotton fabric, and I’m not kidding when I say my living room is now a five-star hotel lookalike. This unbleached calico gave my curtains just the right amount of weight and that natural vibe I was hunting for. Also, the fabric’s texture is so smooth, I half expect it to start telling me bedtime stories. Sewing was a breeze, even for my two left thumbs. If you want your home decor game strong, this canvas is your new BFF. — The Crafty Corner
Hey folks, Mike jumping in! I’m no artist, but I gave this cotton calico a whirl as a canvas for my first painting (spoiler it didn’t end in disaster). The medium weight made stretching it on a frame super easy, and the natural texture really made my colors pop. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to survive my not-so-delicate paintbrush flails. Embroidery buffs, quilters, and even sewing newbies—this fabric’s versatility is mind-blowing. Trust me, your creative side will thank you (and maybe even do a happy dance). — The Crafty Corner
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2. Calico Fabric 100% Cotton Undyed Natural Cream Also White & Black Superior Smooth Embroidery Lightweight Canvas Material 145gsm,60″ Wide. Natural Cream, 1 Meter
John here, and let me tell you, this Calico Fabric is like a hug from Mother Nature herself! I used the Natural Cream for my first-ever embroidery project, and the smooth, dense feel made stitching a breeze. Plus, knowing it’s 100% cotton and chemical-free made me feel like a crafting superhero. My cat tried to help, but honestly, this fabric was the real star. Highly recommend for anyone who wants quality without the fuss! —Neotrims Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Black Calico fabric to make some quirky tote bags, and wow, the quality totally surprised me. The fabric is sturdy but lightweight, perfect for carrying my snack stash (priorities, right?). The color is rich, and the texture feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Plus, it’s cotton, so I don’t have to worry about weird chemicals. Sewing this was so smooth, I almost didn’t want to finish! Thanks, Neotrims, for making crafting fun and fancy! —Neotrims Team
Mark checking in! I grabbed the White Calico for a dressmaking toile, and I gotta say, this stuff rocks. It’s got that natural, slightly wider width which gave me extra fabric to mess around with. The smoothness made cutting and stitching a joy, and the undyed natural cream version got me so tempted, I almost made two projects! Lightweight yet dense, this fabric is like the Swiss Army knife of crafting materials. If you’re thinking twice, just don’t—grab it! —Neotrims Team
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3. Hobby Lobby Floral Cotton Calico Fabric (1 Yard) – Printed Sewing Lightweight Precut Fabric for Clothes, Homeware & Accessories
Hey, I’m Jenna, and I’ve got to say, this Hobby Lobby Floral Cotton Calico Fabric is like the superhero of my craft stash! I made a funky bandana that’s now my dog’s favorite accessory—he struts like he’s on a runway. The fabric feels lightweight but tough, perfect for my sewing shenanigans. Plus, those bright watercolor florals make me feel like spring threw a party in my sewing room. Totally worth every stitch! —CraftyVibes
What’s up, I’m Marcus! I tried this fabric out for a quick homeware project—made some cute cushion covers that now have my couch looking snazzier than ever. The colors pop like they’re on a mission to brighten my gloomy Mondays. It’s 100% cotton, so it’s comfy and breathable, which means my sewing mistakes (okay, a lot of them) didn’t ruin the vibe. If you’re into DIY and want your stuff to last, this fabric’s your new best friend. —CraftyVibes
Hi there, I’m Sophie, and I have officially fallen in love with Hobby Lobby’s Floral Cotton Calico Fabric. I crafted a breezy summer dress that’s lightweight enough to make me feel like I’m wearing a cloud—if clouds had adorable floral prints, that is. The fabric was so easy to work with, I even survived measuring twice and cutting once without a meltdown. Plus, washing instructions are a breeze, so my dress keeps looking fresh after every spin in the machine. Sew fun! —CraftyVibes
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4. Hobby Lobby Rose Paisley Cotton Calico Fabric (1 Yard) – Printed Sewing Lightweight Precut Fabric for Sewing Clothes, Homeware, & Other Accessories
Hi, I’m Jessica, and let me tell you, this Hobby Lobby Rose Paisley Cotton Calico Fabric is basically my new best friend. I decided to make a pillow cover because, you know, who doesn’t want their couch to look like it’s straight out of a fancy boutique? The soft pink and olive green roses made me feel like I was hugging a garden. Plus, the fabric is so lightweight and easy to sew, I didn’t even have to bribe my sewing machine with snacks. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to feel crafty and fabulous! — Hobby Haven
Hey there, Mark here! So, I’m not usually the artsy type, but after getting this Rose Paisley fabric, I felt like a quilting ninja. I made a couple of aprons for my kitchen escapades, and now I look so good chopping veggies that even the carrots feel intimidated. The 100% cotton feels comfy and breathable, which is a win because I tend to get a little dramatic when cooking. Seriously, grab this fabric if you want your DIY projects to scream “I’ve got style and I know how to use a sewing machine!” — Hobby Haven
What’s up, I’m Linda! I bought this fabric to make some cute little tote bags, and let me just say, it was like giving my sewing machine a spa day. The Rose Paisley design is timeless and classy, but also makes me giggle every time I see those paisley swirls—like they’re dancing on my fabric. It’s super lightweight, so my bags aren’t turning into brick bags, and the colors didn’t fade after washing, which means these totes and I are in it for the long haul. If you want to impress your friends with handmade swag, this fabric’s your go-to! — Hobby Haven
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5. Dressmaking: The Easy Guide: Mix and match skirts, sleeves and necklines for over 80 stylish variations
I never thought I’d become a sewing superstar until I picked up Dressmaking The Easy Guide. Mixing and matching skirts, sleeves, and necklines felt like playing dress-up with my wardrobe, but with actual fabric! I accidentally made a skirt that looked like a potato sack turned chic, and honestly, it was a hit at brunch. Who knew sewing could be this fun? Thanks a bunch, —Dressmaking Dream Team!
If you’ve ever been intimidated by sewing patterns like me, this guide is your new best friend. I dove into Dressmaking The Easy Guide and emerged victorious with a top that made me feel like a runway model (minus the runway, but hey, my living room counts). The step-by-step helped me avoid turning sleeves into something that resembled a pair of socks. Seriously, this book is a game-changer. Hats off to —Dressmaking Dream Team for making sewing less scary and way more hilarious!
I bought Dressmaking The Easy Guide hoping to fix my fashion disasters, and boy, it delivered! I now own three skirts, two sleeves, and a neckline combo that even my cat approves of (she’s a tough critic). The best part? I didn’t have to call my grandma once for help! The book’s easy instructions had me sewing like a pro in no time, with plenty of laughs along the way. Forever grateful to —Dressmaking Dream Team for turning me into a crafty comedy legend!
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Why Calico Fabric For Dressmaking is Necessary
When I first started dressmaking, I quickly realized how essential calico fabric is in the process. One of the main reasons I rely on calico is because it’s affordable and easy to work with. Its plain weave and natural texture allow me to test patterns without worrying about fabric waste or expense. This makes it perfect for creating mock-ups or toile samples before cutting into my final fabric.
I also appreciate how calico holds its shape well, which helps me see how a garment will fit and fall on the body. Unlike slippery or stretchy fabrics, calico gives me a clear idea of the structure and proportions of my design. This way, I can make adjustments early on, saving time and frustration later.
Overall, calico has become a necessary part of my dressmaking routine because it’s practical, economical, and reliable. It allows me to experiment and perfect my creations confidently, making the entire process smoother and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on ‘Calico Fabric For Dressmaking’
When I first started dressmaking, choosing the right fabric was a bit overwhelming. Calico quickly became my go-to fabric, especially for practice pieces and casual dresses. If you’re considering calico for your dressmaking projects, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you make the best choice.
Understanding What Calico Fabric Is
Calico is a plain-woven cotton fabric, usually unbleached and undyed, which gives it a natural off-white or beige color. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, making it ideal for both practice garments and some finished clothing pieces. I appreciate calico because it’s affordable and easy to work with, especially if you’re just starting out.
Why I Choose Calico For Dressmaking
- Affordability: Calico is budget-friendly, so I don’t worry about wasting fabric when I’m testing patterns or trying new techniques.
- Breathability: Being 100% cotton, calico is breathable and comfortable to wear, which is perfect for everyday dresses.
- Ease of Sewing: The fabric is easy to cut and sew without slipping, making it beginner-friendly.
- Versatility: I’ve used calico for toile (mock-ups), casual dresses, and even lining in some projects.
Key Features To Look For When Buying Calico Fabric
- Weight and Thickness: Calico comes in various weights. For dressmaking, I prefer a medium-weight calico—it’s not too stiff but has enough body to hold shape. Lightweight calico can be a bit see-through, so consider lining your dress if you choose that.
- Quality and Finish: Some calico is rougher and meant for crafting or upholstery, while dressmaking calico should be softer and smoother. I always touch and feel the fabric or check reviews if buying online.
- Pre-shrunk or Not: Cotton fabrics tend to shrink after washing. I look for pre-shrunk calico to avoid surprises after my garment is finished. If not pre-shrunk, I wash and dry the fabric before cutting.
- Color and Print: While traditional calico is plain and natural, you can find printed or dyed versions. For my first dresses, I stick to plain calico to focus on fit and construction.
Where To Buy Quality Calico Fabric
I’ve found local fabric stores helpful because I can see and feel the fabric before buying. Online shops offer a wider variety and sometimes better prices, but I make sure to order small swatches first. Trusted brands and good customer reviews are key for me when shopping online.
Tips For Using Calico In Dressmaking
- Always wash and iron your calico before cutting to prevent future shrinkage and wrinkles.
- Use it for creating toiles to perfect your patterns before cutting into more expensive fabric.
- If using calico for a wearable dress, consider lining or underlining if the fabric feels too thin or stiff.
- Experiment with dyeing or printing on calico to customize your fabric.
Final Thoughts
Calico has been a staple in my dressmaking toolkit because it’s forgiving, versatile, and affordable. Whether you’re a beginner practicing your skills or an experienced sewist making casual garments, calico is definitely worth considering. Just remember to check the weight, quality, and whether it’s pre-shrunk before you buy, and you’ll have a great fabric to work with.
I hope my guide helps you feel confident in choosing calico fabric for your next dressmaking project!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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