Fabric for making a skirt

[madcatmummy]

I'm doing a sewing machine class to learn how to use it so I can make clothes. We've been given a nice easy skirt pattern to make and advised to get cotton or linen. My question is where is the best place to get fabric? I'm probably best getting it online as I live a looooong way from the shops!

[RedRum]

I always loved Abakhan for the variety of fabrics, but if you want unusual prints try somewhere like fabric rehab (bit more expensive but lovely selection of prints).

[madcatmummy]

Thanks RR, I had been looking on that site but wasn't sure how good they were. Another quick question - would polycotton be an ok fabric for a simple a-line skirt? We were recommended either linen or cotton but I've seen a pattern I prefer in polycotton.

[Disco]

It might be ok but I'd be more wary of buying polycotton online for clothing.. Some can feel quite cheap and stiff to touch, but some is much better. Generally if its listed as polycotton poplin it is better quality and very similar to a nice soft cotton. so I'd look out for that. Apart from that it behaves like cotton so will be fine to substitute.

[madcatmummy]

I decided to wait and visit the market while I was visiting my mum in Chester, she told me there was a better shop - Aberkhan! The lady in there was super helpful and I now have a lovely dusky pink linen. Can't wait to get started now! AD wants me to make her a skirt too, so I'm sure we'll be back next month when we're bank to visit!

[Disco]

Good stuff. they sell online too...

[madcatmummy]

I know, that's the online shop I was looking at, but then to get some great advice from a shop assistant was brilliant, and I'd now be much happier buying on line. And I'm glad I didn't go for the fabric I was looking at on line!

[kirstenduncan]

Where are you located? I've been purchasing dressmaking fabrics from an online store here is the site where I usually order the fabrics that I use http://www.calicolaine.co.uk . Hope it helps.