Crafting With Vintage Textile Fabric

By Catherine Nelson


When it comes to fashion, people often say that what was once old will be considered new in the future. Items from the past have a way of emerging again to a new audience who will see it as exciting and fresh. Clothing and home items made from vintage textile fabric are one of the more popular items.

Whether it be pin stripes from the early twentieth century or vibrant paisley prints from the 1960s and early 1970s, fashion is a statement for many. There are also particular trends that resonate with others and may always be in style. Then again, it may just be a fun way to mix and match themes in clothing and home decor.

Most fabrics, in general, are versatile and works magic with any clothing ensemble or living space. In some cases, fabric can be used to create a new look without sewing skills. Anyone with a creative eye can transform anything with fabric glue and a pair of ordinary scissors.

A foot of so of fabric may be twisted to make a hairpiece of something to wear around the neck. Multiple pieces interwoven together to make a belt worn with a dress or skirt. Sometimes it may be the perfect complement to any outfit that is in need of a change.

A yard or two of retro textile fabric may be cut lengthwise and hemmed together to make a wide belt or A line skirt. Some of these ideas can come to life with hand sewing. However, if a person feels comfortable using a sewing machine, they can experiment with patterns found online or at a fabric store.

Retro fabric pieces can also be used to repurpose old clothes. Appliques for tee shirts, denim, as well as other outfits with holes, tears or in need of lengthening may benefit from extra fabric that will give a different look. Those with tailoring or advanced sewing skills can use the extra fabric to make extra room in clothing that is too small.

Retro fabrics can be used to renovate almost any room in the home and there are many easy projects that can be completed in a matter of minutes. Small pieces are ideal for holding curtains, cloth napkins or wrap bowls intended for decoration. Fabric pieces can also be used for trimming picture frames, making accent pillows or any functional item to be used around the house.

Textiles with special designs or colors from a specific time period can stand on their own as art. Like quilts, these can be used as wall art or to decorate surfaces without any embellishments. All these vintage fabrics need is a reinforcement so that it can be used daily and safely cleaned as needed. Books and websites have ample information for maintenance and care.

With the exception of cotton or blended materials, care is best left up to the professionals. For the best results, these fabrics should only be washed by hand or if a machine is used, the setting is for delicate only. By using care, these textiles can be admired for years to come.




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