Cover Up, Sunshine! (+ Exciting UPF 50 News!) We love a sun-drenched beach day as much as anyone—golden hour selfies, salty swims, and chasing waves 'til sunset. But those UV rays? They’re sneaky little troublemakers, and too much exposure can mean everything from premature aging (no thanks) to serious skin damage (double no thanks). The good news? You don’t have to choose between sun protection and looking cute.  Enter: UPF50+ swim fabric. Think of it as built-in sunscreen woven right into your swimwear—blocking 98% of harmful rays without needing to reapply after every splash. We’re thrilled to announce that all of our swim fabrics are now officially rated UPF 50!  What Is UPF50+ Anyway? If SPF is for sunscreen, UPF is its stylish, sewable cousin. A regular cotton tee might offer UPF 5–15, but our swim fabrics like Lost in Lagos, Mint Blossom, or Peacock Blue Rib are rated UPF 50+, giving you high-level protection that won’t fade, wash out, or rub off. That’s because it’s part of the fabric—not a coating—so it holds up through every rinse, ride, and cannonball. Why Our Fabric’s a Keeper This isn’t just functional—it’s feel-good fabric you’ll actually want to wear and sew: UPF50+ built right in (no treatments = no fading) Soft, buttery stretch that moves with you Holds up to sun, sand, chlorine, and everything in between Easy to sew, hard to resist Not all sun cover is created equal, though — so let’s talk options. Long-sleeved swim tops are a fan fave for full upper-body protection, especially if you're surfing, paddle boarding, or just really into SPF math. High-neck one-pieces offer great chest and shoulder coverage (aka the sunburn danger zones). Prefer breezy coverage? Sarongs, rash guards, and swim leggings give you flexibility without sacrificing style. And yes, you can still look like a total beach babe while being responsibly sun-savvy. Made for Memories, Not Sunburns With Fabric + Flow’s sun-safe swim fabrics, you're not just stitching up something stylish—you’re creating pieces that protect the skin you’re in while you live out your best summer days. So go ahead—frolic, float, flip, and soak it all in. You’ve got a suit that’s got your back. Literally. Ready to dive in? Check out our latest UPF 50+ swim kits and start sewing something sun-smart and swoon-worthy. P.S. Sunscreen’s still your BFF. Just think of your suit as its ride-or-die backup.

Sew a stylish linen capsule wardrobe using just a few key patterns! Learn how to mix solids and prints to create dresses, separates, and layers you can wear multiple ways.

Denim Weight Guide: From Lightweight Chambray to Heavy-Duty Denim Hey, sewists! If you’re a lover of all things denim, you’re in for a treat! Today, we’re diving into the world of denim weights so you can choose the perfect fabric for your next project. Whether you’re looking to create a breezy chambray shirt or a sturdy pair of work jeans, knowing the weight of your denim fabric is key. Let’s explore the different denim weights, from lightweight to heavy-duty, and everything in between! What Is Denim Weight? Denim weight refers to how thick and heavy the denim fabric is, typically measured in ounces per square yard (oz). The higher the number, the heavier the fabric. Different weights are perfect for different projects, so knowing how to choose the right one will help you create beautiful, functional pieces that last. Lightweight Denim: Breezy and Comfortable Light Denim: 4 oz Lightweight denim is perfect for those who want a soft, breathable fabric that drapes beautifully. Typically, you’ll find this weight in chambray or denim shirting fabrics, which are ideal for shirts, light dresses, and lightweight pants. The 4% spandex in these fabrics adds a little stretch, giving you comfort without sacrificing style. When to Use It Perfect for shirts, skirts, and light pants Great for summer outfits and casual wear Ideal for lightweight jackets Styling Tip Think relaxed, effortless looks! A chambray shirt with rolled-up sleeves or a floaty dress that moves with the breeze—swoon! Light/Mid-Weight Denim: The Best of Both Worlds Versatile and Durable: 8 oz and 9.5 oz Denim in the 8 oz to 9.5 oz range strikes a perfect balance between lightness and structure. With mechanical stretch and a small bit of spandex (around 2–4%), this fabric offers some flexibility while maintaining a crisp structure. Think of this weight as the go-to option for blazers, jeans, and trousers. When to Use It Ideal for skirts, blazers, mid-weight jeans, and light jackets Perfect for those trendy skinny jeans or high-waisted trousers Styling Tip These fabrics are versatile enough for both casual and professional looks, so you can make a stylish statement whether you’re at work or out on the weekend! Mid/Heavy-Weight Denim: Rugged and Ready for Anything Sturdy and Reliable: 11 oz If you want a denim fabric that can withstand wear and tear, look no further than the mid/heavy 11 oz denim. This fabric is often seen in overalls, jackets, workwear, and jeans that need to endure constant use. It’s also an excellent choice for denim skirts and jackets that need structure and durability. When to Use It Perfect for workwear, jackets, overalls, and sturdy jeans Excellent for garments worn often Great for heavy-duty applications Styling Tip The beauty of heavy-weight denim lies in its ability to age beautifully over time, developing a worn-in look that adds to the character of your garment. Pair it with flannel shirts or layer it with a cute scarf—so chic! Jegging and Stretch Denim: Comfort Meets Style Super Stretchy: 8.85 oz Looking for something super comfortable that moves with you? Try jegging denim! At 8.85 oz, this fabric is designed with a 4-way stretch to give you maximum comfort and flexibility. It’s perfect for leggings, skirts, or even any knit projects that need extra stretch. When to Use It Best for leggings, skirts, or stretch jeans Perfect for athleisure looks or stretch projects Styling Tip Get ready to move! Whether you’re lounging or running errands, this fabric gives you the perfect blend of comfort and style—no need to sacrifice either! How to Choose the Right Denim Weight for Your Project Choosing the right denim weight comes down to functionality and style. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide: For light and breezy pieces (think shirts, dresses), go for lightweight denim (4 oz). For versatile, all-purpose projects (blazers, skinny jeans), choose light to mid-weight denim (8–9.5 oz). For durable, rugged wear (jackets, workwear), opt for mid/heavy denim (11 oz). For comfortable, stretchy fits (leggings, skirts), grab some jegging denim (8.85 oz). Conclusion: Denim that Works for You! At Fabric + Flow, we believe that every project deserves the right fabric, and our denim collection has something for every style and skill level. Whether you’re crafting a casual chambray shirt or a rugged pair of work jeans, understanding denim weight is essential. Now that you’re armed with the knowledge of denim weights, it’s time to get creative and start sewing those stunning garments! Join our community of fabulous, creative women—don’t forget to share your projects with us on Instagram using the hashtag #FabricAndFlow. We can’t wait to see what you create!

Mistakes to Avoid When Sewing Swim Fabric Making your own swimsuits can be an incredibly rewarding hobby, but it’s also easy to make mistakes, especially if you’re just starting! Not gonna lie; we’ve all been there. For this blog, we’re highlighting some common sewing mistakes when working with swim fabrics—we also have some fab recommendations to help you get through it so you can rock that beachwear in style! 1. Stop That Stitch! Are You Using the Right Needle? Using a ballpoint needle is important when sewing swim fabrics like Swim Print | Mint Blossom. It avoids unpleasant snags and keeps your fabric in tip-top shape. 2. Grainlines Are Your Best Friends Let’s talk about grainlines. Cutting on the wrong grain can lead to garments that hang oddly. Always mind the grain, especially when working with fabrics like the Swim Kit | Coco Tweed. 3. Pre-Wash and Prep Your Fabrics! Always pre-wash your fabric to avoid any size surprises. And remember to follow the wash instructions, you don’t want to see the cute French Terry | Bamboo - Vanilla losing shape after you’re done sewing! 4. Seam Allowance Seam allowances are the secret to sleek finishes and a well-fitting garment. Patterns for swim projects—like the one you’ll need for the Swim Kit | Floral Rush + Wildberry—include specific seam allowances, so let’s give them the respect they deserve. 5. Thread Drama? Choose Quality for Smooth Sewing! Cheap or old thread just won’t cut it. High-quality threads are key when sewing swimsuit fabric, especially pieces like the ones in our Swim Kit | She’s An Icon + Black—which, by the way, already includes some top-quality Gütermann thread! 6. Test Garment First Before you cut into your precious fabric, make a test garment. Try using a less fancy fabric before handling your awesome Swim Kit | Grey Leopard + Black. 7. Steam Power! Press your seams and hems as you go. For swim fabrics like Swim Print | Baroque Silhouette, use a pressing cloth and low heat to avoid damaging the fabric! 8. Maintain the Right Tension Make sure your sewing machine’s tension is set correctly. Play around with a scrap piece of stretchy fabric from the Swim Print | Spot On to get it just right. 9. Keep Your Scissors Sharp Using dull scissors is a no-go. Sharp tools are essential, especially with designs like Swim Print | Gilded Flora. 10. Sew Slow and Steady Rushing through your projects is a recipe for frustration. Trust us, patience pays off. Take your time and enjoy the process while working with Swim Kit | Life’s A Peach + Forest Green or another kit. 11. Study Your Pattern Always read through the entire pattern instructions. It clarifies everything, especially with fab kits like the Swim Kit | Lost In Lagos + Navy. 12. Tune into Your Fabric’s Mood Each fabric has its personality. Some fabrics like our Swim Print | Check it Out have unique stretch and thickness, so adjust those techniques accordingly. 13. Use the Right Stitches Different fabrics require different stitches. Zigzag stitches are amazing for swim fabrics like Swim Print | Sleepy Hollow. 14. Handle with Love Delicate fabrics like swim ones need a gentle touch. Use special needles and take your time with the Swim Kit | Garden Whimsy. By mindfully following these tips and tricks, sewing swimsuit fabrics can be fun and fabulous! Check out our Swim 2025 Collection and our Swim Kits Collection to get your fabrics and kits. We’re here to cheer you on and get you the best materials to create something awesome. Now, turn those wrong stitches into something memorable.

Spring Fabric Trends: The Must-Have Fabrics for Your Next DIY Project Spring is here, which means it’s time for fresh fabrics, bold prints, and DIY projects that actually make you excited to sew. And if there’s one fabric stealing the spotlight this season, it’s swim fabric. Yes, you read that right—custom swimwear is the move this year. Forget settling for whatever fits off the rack. With our new swim fabrics and pre-made Swim Kits, you can design your own swimsuit, complete with the perfect stretch, colour, and fit. So, before we dive into the rest of spring’s trending fabrics, let’s talk about your new summer staple. 1. Swim Fabrics and DIY Swim Kits—Your Summer Essential Why settle for basic swimwear when you can make your own? With Fabric + Flow’s latest swim fabrics, you get high-quality, stretchy, and durable materials perfect for designing bikinis, one-pieces, or even stylish cover-ups. And if you want to make it even easier? Our Swim Kits come with everything you need—fabric, lining, and elastic—so you can skip the guesswork and get straight to sewing. Our top picks? Swim Print | Lost in Lagos → Vibrant, smooth, and ready for your next poolside moment Swim Print | She’s an Icon → Classic, textured, and ridiculously flattering Swim Kit | Life’s a Peach + Honey Gingham → A dreamy combo of playful peaches and classic gingham ✔️ Four-way stretch for comfort and support✔️ Swim Kits available—because we like to make things easy Pro Tip: If you’re new to sewing swimwear, start with a Swim Kit—it’s got all the essentials, plus you won’t have to hunt down the right materials. 2. Breezy Linen—Because Comfort Should Look This Good If effortless style had a fabric soulmate, it would be linen. It’s breathable, lightweight, and has that “Oh, this old thing? Just threw it on” kind of elegance. Whether you’re making an oversized button-up, a tailored jumpsuit, or an easygoing sundress, linen just gets the job done. Our pick? Woven | Viscose + Linen - Lavender. It’s structured yet soft, perfect for anything from power dressing to weekend lounging. ✔️ Keeps you cool✔️ Softens beautifully with wear✔️ Adds that understated luxury vibe 3. Statement Prints—Louder Is Better Minimalists, look away. Bold prints are dominating this season, and we are here for it. Florals, stripes, geometrics—if it turns heads, it belongs in your sewing room. What’s in our cart? Cotton Stretch Print | Night Garden. Crisp, breathable, and features a stunning black and white floral design that screams spring (without actually screaming, of course). 4. Lightweight Cotton—Your Everyday Go-To Yes, cotton is a staple. But not all cottons are created equal. This season, it’s all about breathable, soft, move-with-you cottons that work for everything from breezy blouses to laid-back dresses. Our cotton crush? Cotton Poplin Print | French Botanicals. Playful, fresh, and just structured enough to hold its shape without feeling stiff. ✔️ Lightweight and breathable✔️ Perfect for relaxed silhouettes—think wrap skirts, shirtdresses, and flowy tops 5. Stretchy Ribbed Knits—Because Who Said Comfort Can’t Be Chic? Soft, stretchy, and just the right amount of form-fitting, ribbed knits are the real MVP this season. They hug your curves (without suffocating you) and work for everything from cute crop tops to lounge sets. Must-have? Ribbed Knit | Bamboo - Fuchsia —the ideal balance of cozy and stylish. 6. Sheer and Flowy Chiffon—For Those Drama-Queen Moments Not all heroes wear capes, but if they did, they’d probably be made of chiffon. Whether you’re layering it over another fabric or making a billowy blouse that catches the breeze just right, this fabric brings instant romance to any project. Our go-to? Chiffon | Midsummer Night—light, sheer, and practically made for twirling. ✔️ Adds a soft, dreamy aesthetic✔️ Perfect for layering or statement pieces   Ready to Start Sewing? Let’s Make Some Magic Spring trends don’t wait, and neither should you. If you’re feeling inspired, grab these fabrics while they’re still in stock—because nothing haunts a sewist like the fabric they almost bought. Want more DIY inspo? Join our community on 📸 Instagram | 📌 Pinterest | 💼 LinkedIn Let’s get sewing!

Creating your own swimwear is an exciting project, but choosing the right fabric is key to getting a comfortable, stylish, and long-lasting swimsuit. Whether you’re sewing a bikini, one-piece, or rash guard, the fabric you choose will determine how well it fits, stretches, and holds up to all your activities. What to Look for in Swimwear Fabric Swimwear fabrics need to be: Stretchy: Look for at least 50% four-way stretch to ensure a snug, comfortable fit. Quick-drying: Fabrics that hold moisture will feel heavy and uncomfortable. Durable: Strong fibres prevent sagging and wear. Top Fabrics for Swimwear Nylon Spandex (Polyamide Spandex) If you’re looking for a classic, go-to swim fabric, this is it! Nylon spandex is soft, stretchy, and fits like a dream. It moves with your body and gives that smooth, second-skin feel—perfect for bikinis, one-pieces, and even swim leggings. Pros: Soft, lightweight, and dries quickly Cons: Slightly less chlorine-resistant than polyester blends Best for: Bikinis, one-pieces, swim leggings Our Pick? Swim Basic Solid | Dewy Blue Content: 80% Nylon | 20% Spandex Width: 150 cm | 60” Weight: 200 gsm | 7 oz Stretch: 4-way | 80-90% cross-grain and straight-grain Polyester Spandex If you’re planning to swim a lot—as in, lap after lap in the pool or back-to-back beach days—this is the fabric you need. Polyester spandex holds up like a champ against chlorine and UV rays, meaning your swimsuit will stay vibrant and stretchy for the long haul. What we’d grab? Swim Print | Porcelain Rhapsody. This print has such a soft romantic vibe and just the right amount of stretch to keep things comfy. Why you’ll love it: Long-lasting, fade-proof, and feels great against the skin. Keep in mind: It’s not as silky-soft as nylon, but it makes up for it with durability. Textured Swim Fabrics Want to take your DIY swimwear to the next level? Textured fabrics are where it’s at. Whether it’s ribbed, waffled, or jacquard, these fabrics add a unique, high-end look to your swimsuit. What we’re obsessed with? Swim Basic Rib | Marine. Navy is a timeless, elegant color that never goes out of style. Why you’ll love it: Looks stylish, fits like a glove, and makes your DIY swimsuit feel designer-level. Pro tip: Ribbed swim fabric provides amazing compression by hugging the body with its structured texture, creating a flattering and supportive fit. Don’t Forget the Lining! No one wants a see-through swimsuit, right? For a pro finish, always add a good lining. It keeps things secure, adds comfort, and makes sure your swimsuit lasts! What we’d use? Swim Lining | Nude . It’s lightweight and stretchy enough to move with you. Why you’ll love it: Gives your swimsuit that polished, high-quality feel. Pro tip: Use Power Mesh if you're looking for tummy control in a one-piece! Where to Buy High-Quality Swimwear Fabrics At Fabric + Flow, we offer a curated selection of high-performance swimwear fabrics designed for DIY creators. Whether you’re making a classic one-piece or an on-trend bikini, our fabrics are handpicked to provide the best fit, durability, and style. Explore our Swimwear Fabric Collection or check out our Swimwear Sewing Kits for everything you need in one place!

✨ January is the month of new beginnings, fresh goals, and exciting resolutions! ✨ It's the perfect time to set your sights on what you want to achieve, and we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way! Let's crush those goals together this month and kick start it off with an Athleisure Wear Sewing Challenge! 🧵👚 Here’s the game plan: 🔸 The Goal: Rival your favorite athletic or athleisure wear brands (yes, the ones you absolutely live in) and make YOUR OWN epic set using your choice of patterns and fabrics! Bonus points if you use F+F fabrics (hey, it’s our challenge, right? 😉)! 🔸 The Rules: You have the ENTIRE month of January to complete your masterpiece! Yes, the whole month to flex your sewing skills, get creative, and maybe even learn something new along the way! 🔸 What You’ll Need: Your favorite athleisure pieces to inspire you (whether it’s those comfy leggings or snazzy hoodies!). Snap a photo or take a screenshot. A killer pattern (get ready to customize it to make it your own). If you need help, ask your sewing community. Greenstyle has graciously offered a 15% discount off patterns with code GSFF558120023 Fabrics galore! Stretchy, comfy, stylish—pick the best fabric that’ll help you move and groove in style. Even better, dig into that stash of fabric, or treat yourself to something new. Encourage a friend to join. The more the merrier. Did we mention there are prizes?! Tag and Share! Take us along your journey. Share your progress. We want to know your what inspiration was, the patterns and fabrics you used and end epic results. Be sure you tag us and use the hashtag #FFSewFitJan 🔸 Prizes: $75 Gift Card to Fabric + Flow $40 Gift Card to Greenstyle Patterns 5 Pattern Prizes to Styla Patterns 🔸 To Enter: To make sure we see your Epic Fits and track who has participated, we'd love it if you could send us a photo - via message on Facebook or Instagram, or to our email workroom@fabricandflow.com - and if you're feeling extra: your inspo and patterns you used. Photos need to be submitted by Feb 3. Winners will be drawn Feb 6. Let’s make this January all about that perfect combo of fashion, comfort, and creativity. You’ve got this! Sew much fun ahead! 😍💖 Ready, set, SEW! 🧵✨

If you've been following along with us, you'll see we have released some absolutely AMAZING new coatings in various weights and textures. Our influencers have been knocking their creations out of the park. HELLO sewing goals!! Maybe you're like me and think "Hmm, I’d love to try making a coat". But are feeling apprehensive because it's uncharted territory. No matter your reasons, we're here to help you pave the way to success. Shoot, even I want to conquer my fears and stitch up a jacket. And if I, a self-proclaimed adversary of zippers, ironing, and practically all tasks tied to tailoring woven fabrics (knits hold my sewing heart), am willing to give it a whirl, then so can you! Perks of sewing your own coat: Customization Choosing the fabric, color, and style you love allows you to create a jacket that truly represents your unique taste and personality.​ Perfect Fit Sewing your own jacket allows you to tailor it to your exact measurements, resulting in a fit that’s often more comfortable than off-the-rack options. Why are the arms always so tight?? I can’t be the only one! Skill Development Sewing is not just about stitching fabric together; it's a journey of skill-building that amps up your crafting game. It's like leveling up in real life, where each stitch is a step towards becoming a crafting ninja. You'll pick up nifty tricks that you can whip out for your next creative adventure! Cost-Effectiveness Crafting your own jacket may involve an initial investment in materials, but it can prove to be cost-effective in the long run, especially when you choose premium fabrics. The personal attention and care you put into making it ensures a durable and long-lasting piece. Contributing to a more sustainable fashion practice compared to mass-produced garments. You might be thinking, Okay now what? Well now the fun begins. Step 1 Really you could start one of two ways here. Either by knowing what fabric is calling your name or what pattern you’d like to use. Both are great inspiration starting points. For the sake of this, lets start with the fabric. Decide which one has to be part of your wardrobe. Also get personal with your fabric. Know its content, width and its structure. How does it move or stretch. This will be helpful in choosing your pattern. Keep in mind, the amount of fabric you need will vary depending on the style of coat you want. So both steps really go hand in hand. Step 2 Select your pattern. I know this isn’t always easy. When you look at your fabric, can you envision it finished? How do you want it to look? Do you have an inspo photo? Utilize the sewing community if you’re stuck. Share your inspo/fabric pics and ask them for suggestions. Guaranteed someone out there can direct you to what you’re looking for. We have a wonderful group of sewists in our Fabric + Flow Collective page on Facebook There are so many amazing pattern companies out there, your choices are endless. I have found many pattern companies also include video tutorials within their instructions. This is a tremendous help. Step 3 The fun continues... You’ve picked your pattern and got it ready in your size. Like all patterns, you will need your measurements. Gathered all necessary notions and prepped your fabric. And away you go! But wait, you’re still not feeling confident. You want more support. Did you know that some pattern companies also offer detailed courses? You can use these to your advantage. They will guide and support you through the coat making process. From start to finish, you will have one on one video help. You’ll gain all sorts of knowledge, like pattern adjustments and sewing techniques. Here are two I have found: Love Notions Octave Coat Course - Love Notions Sewing Patterns (can add on the pattern). We've partnered up with Love Notions for the month of November to help you make an amazing coat, whether its your first or you tenth. You can save 20% off any off their Outerwear Patterns. (Not valid on sale items) Closet Core Coatmaking 101 | How to Sew Coats | Online Sewing Class – Closet Core Patterns Happy Sewing friends, you’ve got this. If you decide to embark on the coat making journey, I hope you’ll tag us and show us the finished project. Allison Coating Collection: Coatings – Fabric + Flow Textile Co.

From Fabric to Fashion: Create Your Fall Look Fall is all about the return of those cozy fabrics, with cool textures and heavier weights. Hello plaids, sweater knits, denims and coatings! Let's get you inspired for sewing your fall wardrobe! This week's email is all about blending textures to craft the ultimate autumn ensembles. Imagine the possibilities with our cozy brushed plaids, soft ribbed bamboo, and the versatile Denim jeggings. Dive into the season with these fabulous fabrics! We've collected a few photos of amazing fall outfits and have some great pattern suggestions to get you started on your new fall wardrobe. Love this look?? Pattern Suggestions: Clef Coat - Love Notions Sewing Patterns I love that this coat has a few finishing options. The Button up Hooded version is calling my name. Bonus, they also have a pattern for Men and Kids. The whole family could have matching coats. Logan Shacket – Casual Patterns – Style Arc This one is great is your looking for the more traditional Shacket vibe. Or even this one: Styla Tahoe – Styla Patterns Again quite a few finishing options. Pair the Shacket with a long or short sleeve tee. By using the ribbed bamboo you're adding great texture. And makes the basic tee not so basic. There is quite a few out there, and many free. Here is one to get the vibe going: Crew Neck Top Sewing Pattern – Swim Style Patterns Finish the outfit off with denim, well jeggings actually. Complete comfort, ultimate style. Crescendo Jeans - Love Notions Sewing Patterns This more your style! Rise & Fall Turtlenecks - Papercut Patterns Turtleneck - a fall staple. This one has two versions. Encore Skirt - Love Notions Sewing Patterns I love all the options this pattern has (HELLO it has pockets!), making it perfect for year round projects. PDF Skirt Pattern | Women's Circle Skirt Sewing Pattern – Pattern Emporium 3/4 Circle Skirt with various ways to finish Finish this outfit off with a waist length denim jacket = Perfection! Shop the collection: November Fall Fashion – Fabric + Flow Textile Co. We cannot wait to see how your Fall Wardrobe develops. Happy Sewing, Allison