Fabric Type Guide – Find the Best Material for Your Handmade Wardrobe

When you shop at Handmade Designs Elgin, the fabric behind each piece matters as much as the design. Knowing the basics of cotton, wool, leather, and synthetics helps you pick items that feel good, last long, and suit the season. This guide breaks down the most common fabric types you’ll meet in our boutique and gives quick tips on how to care for them.

Everyday Fabrics: Cotton, Linen & Blends

Cotton is the go‑to for T‑shirts, casual shirts and summer dresses. It’s breathable, soft, and easy to wash. Look for a cotton label with a higher thread count if you want a smoother feel – a 200‑thread cotton feels nicer than a 80‑thread version. Linen works the same way but dries faster and has a relaxed, slightly wrinkled look that’s perfect for warm days. If a piece lists a cotton‑linen blend, you get the softness of cotton plus the coolness of linen.

Cleaning tip: wash cotton and linen in cold water, tumble dry low, and iron while slightly damp for a crisp finish.

Warm Fabrics: Wool, Cashmere & Fleece

When the weather turns chilly, wool and cashmere take over. Wool keeps you warm because its fibers trap air, and it breathes better than synthetic fleece. Cashmere is a type of fine wool, ultra‑soft and lightweight – great for a cosy cardigan that doesn’t feel bulkier than a sweater.

To keep wool looking fresh, hand‑wash or use a gentle cycle with cold water, then lay flat to dry. Avoid hanging because the weight can stretch the shoulders. A quick steam from a kettle can refresh a wool coat without a wash.

Durable Fabrics: Denim, Leather & Synthetic Leathers

Denim is tough, ages well, and pairs with almost anything. Look for a denim weight of 10‑12 oz for jeans that last years. Leather shoes or jackets in our store are made from full‑grain leather – the strongest part of the hide. They develop a natural patina that adds character over time.

Take care of leather by wiping with a dry cloth, using a leather conditioner every few months, and storing shoes with shoe trees to keep shape. Synthetic leather (often called vegan leather) is easier to clean – a damp cloth is enough – but it won’t develop the same patina.

For denim, turn the jeans inside out and wash in cold water to preserve color. Skip the dryer; air‑drying reduces shrinkage.

Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Lifestyle

If you need an outfit that moves with you – like active footwear or a work‑wear shirt – look for fabrics with a blend of stretch. A cotton‑spandex mix gives comfort without sacrificing shape. For formal occasions, a polished wool suit or a silk‑blend dress offers a refined look while staying breathable.

Remember the three‑question rule: Is the fabric comfortable for the intended activity? Will it keep its shape after washing? Does it match the climate you’ll wear it in? Answering these quickly narrows down the best choices.

Handmade Designs Elgin only stocks pieces that meet these criteria, so you can trust each item to feel right and last long. Next time you try on a garment, ask yourself about the fabric – it’s the hidden hero behind every great look.