Best Fabric Choices: Top Picks

Sometimes, creative projects are sparked by stories and imagination rather than just materials. Fictional works can inspire new ideas and approaches to fabric and craft.

This third book in the Selandu Tales series is a unique addition for those who enjoy weaving storytelling into their creative process. It’s best for readers seeking inspiration or a break from technical guides.

• Fictional narrative: Offers a creative take on fabric and choice
• Part of a series: Appeals to fans of ongoing stories
• Encourages imaginative thinking: May inspire new projects or perspectives

Unlike practical guides or materials, this book prioritizes inspiration over instruction. The tradeoff is that it won’t directly help with fabric selection or technique.

Understanding the broader context of fabric—beyond just material—can help crafters and professionals appreciate the role textiles play in daily life and work. Books like this offer valuable insights for those interested in the philosophy and meaning behind fabric choices.

This title is a thoughtful read for anyone seeking to connect their craft to larger ideas about work, purpose, and design. It’s best suited for readers who want to deepen their understanding of fabric’s place in culture and personal development.

• Focus on calling and career: Explores how fabric relates to human work and purpose
• Accessible writing style: Suitable for a wide audience, not just textile experts
• Published by a reputable press: Adds credibility and depth to the discussion

Unlike practical fabric products, this book prioritizes intellectual exploration over hands-on use. The tradeoff is that it won’t directly solve material needs but enriches your perspective.

Quilters often struggle to find wide, high-quality backing that complements their quilt tops without requiring piecing or sacrificing durability. A reliable backing fabric streamlines the finishing process and ensures the quilt holds up over time.

This 108-inch wide premium cotton backing from Choice Fabrics is a practical solution for those seeking both convenience and quality. Its generous width eliminates the need for seams on most quilts, making it ideal for experienced quilters and beginners alike who want a smooth, professional finish.

• 108-inch wide premium cotton: Covers large quilts without piecing, saving time and effort
• Continuous yardage available: Orders of multiple yards are shipped as one piece for seamless projects
• Durable and soft construction: 100% cotton offers comfort and longevity for everyday use

Compared to standard-width fabrics, this option prioritizes ease of use and a polished result for large-scale projects. The main tradeoff is that it may be more fabric than needed for smaller crafts or patchwork.

Finding a quilt backing that both fits your project and offers a range of color options can be challenging. Many quilters want a backing that enhances the overall look without clashing or fading over time.

This 108-inch wide Color Waves backing provides the same practical benefits as other Supreme Backings, with the added advantage of a vibrant color selection. It’s a strong choice for those who want their quilt backs to make a statement or coordinate with complex tops.

• Vivid color wave patterns: Adds visual interest and complements a range of quilt designs
• Wide and continuous: 108-inch width and continuous yardage for seamless application
• Premium cotton material: Ensures softness and durability for everyday use

Compared to basic solid backings, this option prioritizes color and design flexibility. The tradeoff is that bold patterns may not suit every project or aesthetic.

Piecing together multiple fabric widths for quilt backs can be time-consuming and may lead to unwanted seams. A single, wide piece of fabric simplifies the process and results in a more professional finish.

This Supreme 108" Color Waves backing is ideal for quilters who value efficiency and a clean look. Its continuous yardage and high-quality cotton make it a practical choice for both beginners and experienced makers.

• Seamless wide backing: 108-inch width covers most quilts without joins
• Continuous yardage on order: Minimizes waste and maximizes usability
• Soft, durable cotton: Comfortable for everyday quilts and long-lasting

Compared to pieced backings, this fabric prioritizes ease and aesthetics. The main tradeoff is less versatility for smaller or non-quilting projects.

Cutting fabric strips for quilting can be tedious and inconsistent, leading to wasted material and uneven results. Pre-cut jelly rolls streamline the process, making it easier to start and finish projects quickly.

This 20-strip jelly roll from Choice Fabrics is perfect for quilters who want convenience without sacrificing quality. The precision-cut strips are ideal for patchwork, borders, and other creative applications, making it a great fit for both new and seasoned quilters.

• 20 pre-cut strips: Each 2.5" x 45", ready for immediate use
• Premium 100% cotton: Soft, durable, and holds color well
• Designer fabric selection: Adds a touch of elegance to any project

Compared to buying fabric by the yard, this jelly roll prioritizes speed and consistency. The tradeoff is less flexibility in strip size and color selection.

Coordinating colors for quilting can be a challenge, especially when sourcing fabrics from different suppliers. Pre-selected jelly rolls ensure a harmonious palette and simplify the creative process.

This Moonlit jelly roll offers 20 strips of premium cotton in a curated colorway, making it easy to achieve a cohesive look in your quilt or craft project. It’s well-suited for those who want to save time on color matching and focus on assembly.

• Curated color palette: Ensures all strips work well together
• 20 precision-cut strips: 2.5" x 45" for consistent piecing
• Soft, durable cotton: Comfortable and long-lasting

Compared to buying individual fabrics, this jelly roll prioritizes convenience and color harmony. The tradeoff is less variety in fabric patterns and textures.

Some projects require specific fabric dimensions or colors that pre-cuts and bundles can’t provide. Buying fabric by the yard offers maximum flexibility for custom sewing, quilting, and crafting needs.

This Supreme Solids cotton in tan is a versatile choice for those who want to control every aspect of their project. Its soft feel and vibrant color make it a reliable foundation for a variety of handmade items.

• Available by the yard: Order exactly what you need for any project size
• 100% cotton, 45-inch width: Suitable for quilting, apparel, and crafts
• Continuous yardage on multi-yard orders: Minimizes seams and waste

Compared to pre-cut options, this fabric prioritizes customization and flexibility. The tradeoff is more prep work and cutting required before use.

Standard quilting cottons aren’t always up to the task for projects that demand strength and durability, such as bags, upholstery, or outdoor gear. A heavy-weight canvas provides the resilience needed for these uses.

This 10oz cotton duck canvas from Sedona Designz is designed for both indoor and outdoor projects where toughness is key. Its generous width and multiple yard options make it suitable for everything from drapes to drop cloths.

• Heavy-weight 10oz cotton: Withstands daily wear and tear
• 60-inch width: Covers large areas with fewer seams
• Multiple yard options: Buy only what you need for your project size

Compared to lighter fabrics, this canvas prioritizes strength and versatility. The tradeoff is a stiffer feel and less suitability for delicate or lightweight crafts.

Standard quilting cottons aren’t always up to the task for projects that demand strength and durability, such as bags, upholstery, or outdoor gear. A heavy-weight canvas provides the resilience needed for these uses.

This 10oz cotton duck canvas from Sedona Designz is designed for both indoor and outdoor projects where toughness is key. Its generous width and multiple yard options make it suitable for everything from drapes to drop cloths.

• Heavy-weight 10oz cotton: Withstands daily wear and tear
• 60-inch width: Covers large areas with fewer seams
• Multiple yard options: Buy only what you need for your project size

Compared to lighter fabrics, this canvas prioritizes strength and versatility. The tradeoff is a stiffer feel and less suitability for delicate or lightweight crafts.