Why Pinterest Is Basically Your New Creative BFF Let’s be real—Pinterest isn’t just for planning dream weddings or saving recipes you’ll never cook (guilty). It’s a goldmine for creatives, designers, makers, and all-around visual thinkers. Whether you're dreaming up your next collection, redecorating a space, or planning a passion project, Pinterest is like that friend who always knows what looks good—and isn’t afraid to show you. So, why should you care about Pinterest? Because it's not just a social network—it’s a visual search engine. You can explore styles, color palettes, textures, and layouts from all over the world, right from your screen. Think of it as your digital mood board… that updates itself every day. And if you’re a fabric-lover, DIY dreamer, or full-on sewing enthusiast? Pinterest is basically your happy place. Sewists, this part’s for you: Pinterest can be the starting point for your next me-made outfit. Here’s how: Start with ready-to-wear inspiration.Use Pinterest to browse retail looks you love—from street style to runway to everyday influencers. You can search for specific pieces ("linen jumpsuit", "boxy blouse", "maxi wrap dress") or even full outfit vibes ("minimalist fall wardrobe", "coastal grandma chic", etc.). Then find the perfect sewing pattern match.Once you've pinned a look you love, it’s time to reverse-engineer it. What’s the silhouette? The construction? The fabric? Use those clues to hunt for a sewing pattern that mimics the style—but made by you. (Bonus: You get to pick the fabric.) Use Pinterest’s visual search tool.Did you know you can click on any image and search for visually similar ones? It’s an underrated tool for finding pattern inspiration or alternate versions of a look. 3 Ways We Use Pinterest at Fabric & Flow: 1. To build mood boards before creating anything Before any new product shoot, collection drop, or branding decision, we scroll through boards full of aesthetic magic to set the tone. It’s a total vibe check. 2. To spot trends before they hit your inbox Pinterest is where trends start. Whether it’s earthy color palettes, statement prints, or soft minimalism, we’re watching it unfold there first—and weaving it into our fabric and content planning. 3. To connect with you (yes, you) We’re always updating our Pinterest with curated boards of ready-to-wear looks paired with similar sewing patterns. Whether you’re hunting for your next sewing project or building your dream wardrobe, we’ve done the legwork to help you go from inspo to “I made this.” Want to start pinning like a pro? Here’s a mini challenge: 📌 Create a board for your next sewing project.Call it whatever you want (we like “Color Crush” or “Closet Goals”). Then, go wild—pin outfits, patterns, fabrics, color palettes, and textures. Try searching for looks you’d actually wear, then imagine how you could make them yourself. Before you know it, you’ve got a full visual game plan—and a whole lot of motivation. Ready to get inspired? Start scrolling (and sewing) with us:👉 Follow Fabric & Flow on Pinterest

Deadstock vs Regular Fabric: Why It Matters for Your Makes As sewists, we spend hours carefully choosing patterns, testing fits, and fine-tuning the details—but what about the fabric itself? The choice between deadstock fabric and regular yardage goes beyond aesthetics or drape. It’s about the story your fabric carries—and the impact it leaves behind. If you care about sustainable sewing, it's time to understand what deadstock fabric is, and why it's becoming a favorite among thoughtful makers. What Is Deadstock Fabric? Deadstock fabric refers to leftover, overordered, or unused fabric from fashion brands or textile mills. Instead of going to waste (or worse, landfill), this fabric is resold—often in limited quantities—to small brands, designers, and indie sewists like you. Think of it as giving fabric a second chance at life. It’s like fabric thrift shopping—but way cooler. How Is It Different From Regular Fabric? Regular fabric (sometimes called “production fabric”) is manufactured and dyed with the intention of being sold at scale. It’s made on-demand by mills and suppliers to fill retailer orders. While it’s available in predictable quantities, it often comes with a higher environmental footprint—especially if it’s produced with virgin fibers, chemical dyes, and under unclear labor conditions. Deadstock, on the other hand: Already exists (no new resources used to make it) Is often unpredictable in yardage, fiber content, and availability Can include designer or high-end textiles at more accessible prices Why Choose Deadstock for Your Makes? If you're leaning into ethical fabric sourcing and making more conscious creative choices, deadstock is a strong place to start. 1. 🌍 It’s More Sustainable Buying deadstock prevents perfectly good fabric from being discarded. It reduces demand for new textile production and helps keep waste out of landfills. 2. 🧵 It’s Unique Deadstock runs are often small, meaning what you sew won’t look like anything else out there. No mass-produced matching wardrobes here. 3. 💰 It’s Budget-Friendly Deadstock can include luxury or designer fabrics sold at a discount, making it a great way to access high-quality textiles without blowing your budget. Any Drawbacks? Yes, a few things to consider: Limited quantities: You may not be able to reorder. Grab what you love when you see it. Uncertain content: Sometimes fiber content or weave type isn’t clearly labeled. (Tip: get comfortable with a burn test!) Not always “green” by default: Just because it’s deadstock doesn’t mean it’s organic or non-toxic—it just means it's leftover. Still, using it keeps it out of the waste stream, which is a win. Deadstock Fabric at Fabric & Flow At Fabric & Flow, we source deadstock fabric with care—curating modern, wearable textiles that align with our love for slow fashion and sustainable sewing. From neutral linens to playful prints, our deadstock collection is ever-changing (and often one-of-a-kind). 🛒 Browse our latest deadstock fabric arrivals📌 Follow us on Pinterest for outfit ideas + matching patterns🧵 Join our maker community on Facebook and Instagram, and show us what you’ve made with the tag #fabricandflow Final Stitch Your fabric choices matter. Choosing deadstock over regular fabric isn’t just an aesthetic decision—it’s a small but powerful shift toward more ethical fabric sourcing and planet-conscious sewing. And as sewists, isn’t it kind of amazing that we can create exactly what we want to wear—while also creating less waste? Want more tips on sustainable sewing? Sign up for our newsletter for fabric drops, free resources, and ways to make your sewing practice even more mindful.

Why Print Placement Matters We’ve all been there. You’re walking through a store, glance at a garment, and bam — there it is. A flower, a circle, a bold graphic... sitting right there. Dead center. Unintended bullseye. The kind that makes you do a double take (and not in a good way). Print placement might sound like a small detail, but once you notice it — there’s no unseeing it. And if you’ve ever cut your pattern pieces without thinking about where the print falls, you know that pit-of-your-stomach feeling when you realize what just happened. Let’s talk about how to avoid those moments and make your fabric work for you, not against you. Directional vs. Non-Directional Prints Knowing whether your fabric is directional (where the design has a clear top and bottom) or non-directional (design works in any orientation) is key before you start cutting. Non-directional prints are a dream for sewists. Why? Less fabric waste and more flexibility in layout. You can often flip pieces to make the most of every inch - like Summer Slice. Directional prints like French Botanicals, require you to be more mindful. Every piece needs to be cut facing the same way — especially if it’s a garment like swimwear or dresses where top and bottom matter. But here’s the fun part: even technically non-directional prints can have a "best" orientation. Pattern Placement: Make or Break Even with a non-directional print, placement can make or break a design. When you’re working with larger-scale or bold prints, you want to highlight the fabric — not hide it or create visual distractions. Case in point? Let’s talk about two of our favourite swimwear prints: 🌿 Leaf It to Me Think cool, abstract botanical vibes. It’s technically non-directional, so you can flip it any way.But... it honestly looks best vertically. That flow? Chef’s kiss. It’s stunning on a one-piece swimsuit, especially when you take time to place the pattern to show off the print’s movement. Trust us — it’s worth the extra thought. 🏺 Casa Blanca This one’s all about bohemian elegance with earthy tones and a bold scale. Again, vertically-oriented layout gives the most striking impact. Casa Blanca sings when allowed to take center stage on a one-piece. Fabric Grain and Stretch Considerations When working with stretch fabric (like 4-way stretch swimwear), you get even more flexibility. Some prints don’t have a strict grain direction, which means more creative freedom and less waste — win-win! Still, if you're fussy cutting or matching stripes, patterns, or motifs, remember:👉 You’ll need extra fabric.But oh — when those stripes line up just right? Cue the angelic chorus. Pro Tips for Smart Sewing with Prints: Always lay out your pattern pieces and visualize the finished garment before cutting. Use a full-size printout or make a mockup for big prints. Consider the visual impact zones (center front, bust, seat, etc.) and avoid placing big motifs where you don’t want attention. When in doubt: step back. Squint. Does the placement work from a distance? Final Stitch: Celebrate the Print Prints are powerful. When thoughtfully placed, they can highlight your shape, tell a story, or add that extra wow to your project. Whether you're working with something abstract like Leaf It to Me or something bold like Casa Blanca, take a few minutes to plan. A little intention goes a long way — and helps you avoid any hello-look-at-my-bits surprises along the way. Want to see more swimwear-ready prints?Browse Our Swim FabricsOr check out Leaf It to Me and Casa Blanca directly and start planning your next masterpiece!

Guess what?! We’ve got some exciting news that’s going to make your online shopping experience even better (and your wallet happier). We just lowered our free shipping threshold from $199 to $150!  That means more free shipping, more savings, and fewer reasons to abandon your cart. Win-win-win. Why the Change? We heard you loud and clear. $199 felt like a big commitment, especially when you're just a few items away from hitting the free shipping mark. So, we’re making it easier (and faster) to qualify for free shipping – because honestly, who doesn’t love seeing that magical “Free Shipping” note at checkout? What This Means for You: Save More, Spend Less – Now, you only need to hit $150 to unlock free shipping. No More Overthinking Your Cart – Add what you love and check out with confidence. More Frequent Orders – Shop in smaller batches, more often, without paying for shipping each time. Our Promise to You We’re all about delivering more value with every click. Lowering our free shipping threshold is just one way we’re working to make your shopping experience smoother, easier, and more rewarding. So go ahead—fill that cart. You’re closer than ever to free shipping bliss! 💡 Pro Tip: Want to stay in the loop on future deals and updates like this one? Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on socials. We’ve always got something brewing... Thanks for being part of our amazing community. Happy shopping—and enjoy that free shipping! 

Meet the Extras Kit: For the DIY Swimwear Dreamer  So, the time has finally come. You’ve caught the creative bug, and this time it’s whispering: “make your own swimsuit.” And guess what? You're actually going to doing it. Maybe you’ve already done your homework and picked out the perfect pattern (and if not we've got plenty of pattern suggestions to get you started). Now you’re deep in the fabric phase. You're here - on our site - because, where else would you go for high-quality swim prints and solids? You might be scrolling through our curated kits, searching for that spark of inspiration, but maybe none of our pre-made combos are quite you. You’re more of a choose-your-own-adventure kind of creator. We get it. You’ve nailed down the main event: your dream combo of prints and/or solids. But you still need the behind-the-scenes magic to make your swimsuit come to life. That’s where the Extras Kit comes in. What’s in the Extras Kit? This kit is made for the freestyle makers—the mix-and-matchers, the rule-benders, the swimwear rebels. Inside, you’ll find: 1 meter of Lining – Choose black or white Swimwear elastic – 2 meters of 18mm and 3 meters of 8mm An exclusive sew-in label – Because the details do matter, and that finishing touch makes it all feel real It’s everything you need to round out your DIY swimsuit project—minus the fabric and pattern (you’ve got that covered, right?). So go ahead, build your own kit, make it 100% you, and dive into swimwear sewing like the creative rockstar you are.  Shop - All Swim

Comfort Meets Cutest-Ever Style: The Estes Pattern Has Arrived We’ve officially fallen in love — and we’re not afraid to shout it from the rooftops. The new Estes pattern from Jenn at Styla Patterns, is exactly what our sewing dreams are made of: flirty, functional, and fabulously comfortable. Because who said style and sweat can’t go hand in hand? A Two-Piece Wonder With Built-In Confidence Estes comes as a two-piece set that doesn’t just serve looks — it delivers comfort and support in every stitch. Whether you're dancing in the wind, powering through a workout, or running errands with main character energy, this set has you covered — literally. ✨ The Top: Drama? Yes, please. Sculpted seam lines add a touch of flair, while built-in support means you can skip the bra without skipping the structure.🍑 The Skirt: This one’s a total flirt. A flouncy back hem adds movement and fun, while built-in shorts underneath keep everything secure (even when you're hitting your best spin on the dance floor or fighting a surprise breeze). And did we mention options? The skirt comes in two lengths, because we believe in outfit freedom — and elastic waistbands. Your New Favourite Pattern for, Well... Everything One of the best things about Estes is its versatility. With the right fabric, you can completely transform the look and function of this set: Make it in performance fabrics for an activewear outfit that moves with you. Sew it in swim fabric for a bold two-piece swimsuit. Get creative with prints, mesh inserts, or luxe scuba knits like @twisted.daizy.designs did with her lace border print version that stopped us in our tracks. Community-Made Magic We had the absolute joy of supporting Jenn (aka @emmaandblaine) and her pattern testers with some of our favourite athletic fabrics. Here’s how a few of the amazing makers brought their Estes sets to life: @sew.with.steph used Tropical Hurricane and Athletic Solid Cactus for a bold, sporty combo. @sew.mom.repeat kept things cool with Athletic Solid Storm Blue. @utrachel went classy with Athletic Print Guava Linen Look. @lilbrockli brought texture with Midnight Solid and Perforated Mesh. And of course, the original inspiration from @emmaandblaine in Groovy Pink Print had us swooning from the start. We’re constantly blown away by the creativity in the sewing community — and it’s an honour to be part of your makes. Want to Collaborate? Let's Dream Something Up This project is a perfect example of what happens when great minds come together. If you're a pattern designer, content creator, or just someone with a cool idea and a love for fabric, we’d love to chat. Whether it’s a new pattern launch, fabric testing, or a joint creative project — we’re here for it. Drop us an email at workroom@fabricandflow.com and let’s see what we can come up with. Ready to Sew Your Own Estes? Styla Patterns creates thoughtfully designed sewing patterns that blend style and function—perfect for everyday wear and active lifestyles. Grab your copy of the Estes pattern here - use code ESTES to save 25% off (valid until end of August) and browse our collection of athletic prints and solids to bring your version to life.

Ready, Sweat, Sew: Create Your Own Athletic Wear Magic You’ve got the vision. You’ve got the skills. All you need now is the gear to get going. Whether you're stitching up sleek leggings, airy tops, or that perfect sports bra—you’ll want the right mix of fabrics and extras to make your activewear dreams a sweaty (but stylish) reality. Enter: Our Athleticwear Kits 💥 They’re curated, coordinated, and just waiting for you to get your sew on. What’s in the Kit, You Ask? Each kit is a powerhouse package with everything you need to make magic at your machine: Solid Athletic Knit Fabric→ Supportive + stretchy = chef’s kiss for leggings and sports brasContent: 75% Nylon / 25% Spandex | 230gsm / 7oz Powermesh Fabric→ For that breathable hold-your-stuff-in feel. Think lining magic.Content: 72% Nylon / 28% Spandex | 160gsm / 5oz Perforated Mesh Fabric→ Hello ventilation. Perfect for inserts, panels, or sporty flair.Content: 80% Nylon / 20% Spandex | 200gsm / 6oz Thread (perfectly matched)→ Because your seams deserve to be just as pretty. Exclusive Sew-In Label→ Add that pro-finish touch. Because YOU made this, and the world should know. Choose Your Adventure: Fat Half or Full Meter? Fat Half KitEach fabric: 75cm x 100cm (30" x 39")Total = 1.5 meters of awesome Full Meter KitEach fabric: 150cm x 100cm (60" x 39")Total = 3 full meters of sewing freedom A Quick Note on What’s Not Inside  We've packed these kits with the good stuff—but there are a few things you won’t find inside, like elastics, foam cups, or sewing patterns. We can’t do everything (yet 😉), but don’t worry—we’ve always got great pattern suggestions to point you in the right direction. Why You'll Love It (Besides the Obvious) ✅ High-quality fabrics for high-impact workouts (or lounging, we won’t judge)✅ Great for beginners or seasoned stitchers✅ Perfect for testing patterns or building your athleticwear stash✅ No more guessing – just grab a kit and go! Make It. Sweat In It. Brag About It. Whether you're running marathons or marathoning Netflix, these kits are here to support your creative hustle. Get inspired, mix and match, and make something that's 100% YOU. So go on… grab a kit, fire up your sewing machine, and get ready to strut that handmade swagger.  P.S. - We also have Athletic Print Kits too, you're welcome! SHOP ALL KITS HERE  

Sew Your Own Activewear: The Fun, Fit, and Freedom of DIY Workout Clothes Let’s be real—finding activewear that actually fits, feels good, and flatters? Not always a walk in the park (or on the treadmill). That’s why more and more people are grabbing their sewing machines and going full-on DIY with their workout clothes. Whether you're tired of see-through leggings, awkward seams, or just want your gym gear to scream you, sewing your own activewear might just be your new favourite project. Why Make Your Own Workout Clothes? Fit Like a Glove: Say goodbye to saggy waistbands and too-tight tops. You control the measurements. Pick Your Performance: Choose breathable, moisture-wicking, or recycled fabrics based on your workout. Style Your Way: Leopard print yoga pants? Color-blocked sports bra? Go wild. Eco-Friendly Bonus: Reduce waste and fast fashion with sustainable sewing choices. Pro Tips for Sewing Your Own Activewear Before you dive into spandex paradise, here are a few must-know tips to help your DIY fitness gear turn out like a pro made it. 1. Choose the Right Fabric Activewear needs stretch! Look for four-way stretch knits, like nylon-spandex or polyester-spandex blends. For breathability and performance, consider: High performance knits like our Athletic Solids Power mesh (for ventilation panels and extra support where needed). Perforated mesh is also great for ventilation, visual interest and breezy tops Recycled poly blends (hello, sustainable sewing!) Pro tip: Always do a stretch test—pull the fabric both ways and make sure it snaps back easily. 2. Use the Right Needle & Thread Swap out your universal needle for a ballpoint or stretch needle to avoid skipped stitches. Pair it with polyester thread—it’s stronger and more elastic-friendly than cotton. And yes, a serger helps with clean seams—but don’t stress if you don’t have one. A zigzag stitch or stretch stitch on your sewing machine works just fine. 3. Pick Patterns That Move With You Start with beginner-friendly patterns like: Leggings with a yoga waistband Racerback sports bras Fitted tanks or bike shorts You can find digital sewing patterns online or use your favorite pair of leggings as a template (pro tip: trace before you cut!). 4. Test the Fit—Always! Make a muslin (test version) using inexpensive stretch fabric before cutting into your fancy print. Test out squats, stretches, and dance moves to make sure seams hold and nothing rolls down where it shouldn't. 😉 5. Add Performance Features Want to level up your DIY workout clothes? Try adding: Flatlock seams for comfort Hidden pockets for keys or cards Elastic waistbands with drawstrings Thumbholes in sleeves for that athleisure look 6. Unsure of what fabric to get? Grab an Athletic Kit in Fat Half or Full Metre! You’ll get 3 fabrics (Solid, Power & Perforated  Mesh) in matching or complementary colours. No need to choose—you get all the options to get your creativity on! Sewing Activewear Is Empowering (and Kinda Addictive) Once you realize you can make a pair of leggings in a weekend that fit better than anything from the store, you’ll never go back. Plus, creating custom fitness clothes adds a boost of motivation to your workouts—because let’s face it, wearing something you made is a flex in itself. Ready to Get Started? Shop our curated collection of athletic fabrics, DIY athletic kits, and notions. Whether you’re starting small with a tank top or diving into full matching sets, we’ve got your back (and your backside). ✅ Final Stitch: Your Sewing Activewear Checklist ✅ Stretchy, breathable fabric ✅ Ballpoint/stretch needles ✅ Polyester thread ✅ Beginner-friendly pattern ✅ Confidence to make it your own Start sewing your own activewear today—and never settle for boring workout clothes again.

Yes, You Can Sew Stretch Fabric Without a Serger! Many sewists assume you need a serger (also known as an overlocker) to sew swimwear, leggings, or anything made from stretch fabric. But here’s the truth: you absolutely don’t. Whether you’re new to sewing or just not ready to invest in a serger, you can create strong, stretchy, and professional-looking seams with your regular sewing machine—as long as you use the right stitches and techniques. What You’ll Need Before you start, here’s what we recommend for sewing stretch fabric on a home machine: Stretch needle or ballpoint needle→ These glide between fibres instead of piercing them—perfect for spandex, lycra, and knits. Polyester thread→ Polyester thread has stretch and strength. Avoid cotton, which can snap. Stretch fabric→ Need help choosing one? Shop our swim and athletic fabrics → Walking foot (optional)→ Helps feed fabric evenly—especially useful for lightweight or slippery materials. Best Stretch Stitches to Use (No Serger Needed!) Most modern machines come with stretch-friendly stitches. Here are three of our favourites: 1. Zigzag Stitch Stitch Width: 2.5–3.5Stitch Length: 1.0–2.5 The zigzag stitch is a tried-and-true choice. It stretches with your fabric and works well for seams and hems. 🔧 Pro Tip: Test the settings on a scrap before sewing your final piece. 2. Lightning Bolt or Stretch Stitch Symbol: Often looks like a wavy lightning line (⚡) This is a built-in stretch stitch on many machines. It’s perfect for seams that need extra durability, like swimsuit bottoms or activewear leggings. 3. Triple Straight Stitch This stitch sews forward, then backward, then forward again for a super strong (and slightly stretchy) seam. Great for high-stress areas. ⚠️ Heads up: It can be slow to sew, and tough to unpick—so go slow and steady. How to Prevent Wavy or Stretched-Out Seams Stretch fabric loves to… well, stretch—sometimes more than you want. Here’s how to keep your seams smooth: Don’t pull your fabric while sewing – Let the machine feed it naturally. Use a walking foot – Especially helpful for slippery fabrics like swim lycra. Lower presser foot pressure – If your machine allows, reduce it slightly. Stabilize tricky areas – Use clear elastic or stay tape in shoulder seams, waistbands, etc. Hemming Without a Serger You can hem stretch garments with: A narrow zigzag A twin needle (for that classic double-stitch look) A coverstitch lookalike using stretch stitches 🌟 Twin needles are affordable and give a professional hem finish with built-in stretch. Fabric + Flow Pro Tip The better the fabric, the better your results. Cheap stretch fabric can curl, shift, and behave unpredictably. We stock high-quality swim and activewear fabrics that perform beautifully on a home machine—no serger required. Shop Swim Shop Athletic Ready to Start Sewing? Sewing stretch fabric without a serger is easier than you think—with the right tools, the right stitches, and the right fabric, you can make beautiful, wearable swimwear or activewear at home. Still have questions? Message us on Instagram or send us a note—we love helping makers grow their skills. 📩 Get More Sewing Tips Like This! Sign up for our newsletter to get tutorials, product tips, and stay up to date with new products and promos.