Dress making and pattern - using different fabric than specified OK?

[bugsonbuns]

I want to make a corduroy dress, but might also make it in other fabrics depending on if I like the pattern. Simple shift dress like this (not looking at jacket, just simple dress to layer with T shirts underneath.

I know some patterns and styles of dress you can't use other fabrics for as the cut of the dress and drop of the fabric won't look right, but for something fairly plain can you go against the manufacturer's recommended fabrics? I would be looking at using a thin stretch cotton cordurory fabric.

Thanks!

Patterns like that are pretty versatile. It is designed to use non stretch fabrics so will have plenty of room. It would also look lovely (imo) in a modern print like these www.monaluna.com/collections.html

your stretch cord should work very well, but if I was you I would baste the parts before sewing it up as you might be able to take it in slightly to take advantage of the stretch.

If you aren't sure whether you like the pattern I would recommend making a toile first.

Thanks - that's brilliant. LOVE those fabrics too - really lovely - have bookmarked it. Is there anywhere in the UK that does similar modern print fabrics?

I agree the fabric you mention will work fine - as Greige has already said, patterns like that one are pretty versatile

one thing I will add though - a lot of the stretch woven fabrics can shrink a lot, up to a whole size, so I would highly recommend doing a shrink test first - cut a 10cm square of your cloth & mark the width & length - be very precise with this & the size - iron with a very hot steam iron & measure again - with a 10cm square it will be very easy to work out the percentage of shrinkage

if it works out to be about half a size on your garment (1 inch) , as its stretch you'll probably get away with it, but any more you might need to allow for when cutting,

Monaluna is available in the UK - just have a google. Raystitch have a great selection of funky fabrics, but they're not cheap :)