If you love sewing with beautiful prints from fabric brands like Moda Fabrics and Riley Blake Designs, you may have wondered: Can I use 100% quilting cotton for making clothing? The short answer is yes—quilting cotton can be used for apparel—but there are both pros and cons to keep in mind.
The Pros of Quilting Cotton for Clothing
One of the best things about quilting cotton fabric is the endless variety of prints and colors available. Whether you’re shopping Moda florals, Riley Blake modern designs, or timeless basics, quilting cotton gives you access to stylish options you won’t always find in traditional garment fabrics.
Another advantage is that quilting cotton is easy to sew. Its medium weight and stable weave make it beginner-friendly—it cuts smoothly, doesn’t slip around like some apparel fabrics, and presses crisply. For simple patterns such as skirts, button-up shirts, children’s clothing, or pajama pants, quilting cotton is a wonderful choice.
The Cons of Quilting Cotton for Clothing
While versatile, quilting cotton is not designed specifically as a garment fabric. It has less drape than fabrics like rayon, lawn, or voile, which means it can feel stiffer on the body. This is especially noticeable in flowy dresses or blouses where a softer fabric might hang more gracefully.
Another consideration is comfort. Quilting cotton is breathable (since it’s 100% cotton), but it can wrinkle easily and may feel a bit structured compared to lighter apparel fabrics. For fitted garments or pieces you want to move fluidly, you might want to choose a fabric made specifically for clothing.
The Bottom Line
Yes—you can make clothing with 100% quilting cotton, and many sewists do! The key is choosing the right pattern. If you’re sewing a structured garment or a beginner-friendly project, quilting cotton is a fantastic choice. For flowy, drapey designs, you may want to explore fabrics made for apparel.
At Create Some Sunshine, we carry a wide selection of high-quality quilting cottons by Moda and Riley Blake—perfect for quilts, home décor, and yes, even handmade clothing projects!