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Friday, March 12, 2010

Textile Talk: Not Just for Scarlett O'Hara

Crinoline is a structural material that has kinda been forgotten.  But it's one that I enjoy using because of it's unique properties.

When you hear the word crinoline, most people imagine stiff petticoats worn under yards and yards of fabric by Victorian women.  When crinoline was first invented in the 1830s it was a linen material woven with horsehair, because of it's stiff texture it was used for cloth petticoats. Thank goodness it's not made with horsehair any more and us women don't have to wear it!


 I'm a big fan of crinoline for the following  reasons: 
1. It's cheap.  About $2.75 a yard.
2. It's stiffness can be utilized as a base for all materials, including delicates that can not have interfacing fused to them.
3. It's easy to work with.  Just cut and go, your done!  No fraying.
My favorite use for crinoline is for handbags.  I use it as a base to create a foundation for my sewing projects.  The "Mia Rose"pattern is a great example of how to use crinoline for bags.  It has been pointed out to me that it's also wonderful for backing framed paintings and photos!
Picture
Crinoline

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