Yes, You Can Sew a Dress with Quilting Cotton: A Guide for Quilters and Sewists
Quilting cotton isn’t just for quilts—it’s a versatile fabric that can bring vibrant prints and crisp structure to your wardrobe. This medium-weight woven cotton, known for its minimal stretch and bold designs, shines in garments like fitted bodices, A-line skirts, and trendy quilted outerwear, such as the Omilla Quilt Coat or Chiono Quilted Jacket. For my Patch & Bloom Dress, I used Cotton + Steel’s Camont Range, blending floral and geometric prints for a striking patchwork effect. The key to success? Prewashing. It removes stiff sizing, prevents up to 5% shrinkage, and softens the fabric for a comfortable, flowing drape. Try adding half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse or a short tumble-dry cycle to enhance softness—steam ironing works, too. With the right pattern and prep, quilting cotton can transform into clothing that’s both structured and stylish.
