What’s not to love about wool? It’s a natural fiber that’s warm and cozy and easy to sew with.
(Photo courtesy of Kristin Nicholas!) Earlier this month I launched my newest sewing pattern, the Field Study Fold-over Tote made up in a gorgeous wool plaid fabric. Of course you can make the bag in a variety of materials, but why not try wool for a change?
Great wool fabrics are not always easy to find, unless you know where to look. Here are a few ideas to get you started on your quest for the perfect wool fabric for your next bag, coat, pillow, or whatever!
1) Local Shops
vintage wool blankets, one found on Etsy, one thrifted locally
over dyed herringbone and glen plaid
You’ll also find quite a few Etsy shops that cater to people that hook rugs, selling smaller cuts of wool that are often overdyed in beautiful colors. These are great for smaller projects such as hats or pouches.
4) Pendleton Woolen Mill Store:
Oh beloved Pendleton, that iconic brand known for it’s quality American made wool blankets and fabrics. The Pendleton Woolen Mill Store has yardage available in the $34-84 range that can be ordered by phone. They are located in Portland, OR and if you’re in the area you can go to the outlet in person to shop! I hear they have great bargains on smaller cuts. Next month they’ll have a a huge March Madness sale, so mark your calendars if you’re interested in scoring some beauties.
thrifted wool from apparel
5) Thrift stores and rummage sales
Ok, I saved the best for last! Maybe I’m biased, but searching out plaid wool fabrics in person and on the cheap is a winning combination. Check the craft section for piece goods, the linens section for blankets, the outerwear section for coats as well as the mens and womens apparel departments. Larger pieces of clothing with fewer seams, like long skirts, are ideal. You might even find a nice big shawl or scarf in the accessories area. Give everything with potential the once-over to make sure there are no stains or holes that can’t be worked around. Rummage, church and estate sales are also a good bet.
Just wanted to say your Field Study Tote is gorgeous!
Thank you so much, O!
Thanks for the great suggestions. I live in northern Indiana where we have LOTS of lovely quilt shops but not much in the way of garment fabric. I wind up purchasing most online. Thanks for naming a few I hadn’t heard of!
Love your ideas! Thanks so much!
I have used Dorr Mill Store in New Hampshire- https://dorrmillstore.com/index.php
They have lots online and even more if you visit and the prices are pretty reasonable.
Oh thanks for the suggestion, Mimi!
So, I live in your area (I’m in NW DC) and am always on the prowl at the nearby Unique Thrift/Value Village. Actually, (hope this isn’t creepy!) I often think of your beautifully upcycled items when I come across anything cashmere or wool. I’m not in the market for buying these fabrics new, and I don’t often get to craft with them. I’m wondering what is a reasonable price to spend on, say a women’s size large or men’s size medium 100% wool sweater (or a cashmere sweater) in good condition in a nice color for upcycling? Do you have a set of criteria you use when deciding whether or not to buy? Thanks!
I go to that store a few times a year! They price things kind of high if it’s a good brand on the label. Be sure to go on sale days! (Mon and Thurs) I’ll pay $5-6 for a great sweater. If it’s marked higher than that, say $9-12, I get pretty crabby and will only buy it if I need it for a specific thing and I know it will be perfect.
I love wool! Fabric Mart often has some nice choices too – they have designer remnants.
I purchase almost all of my wool at yard sales. But our local goodwill store sells wool sweaters and coats left at he end of the season for $1 each. Great time to stock up!