Minerva Core Range 21 Wale Cotton Babycord Fabric - Light Pink

The 'wale' refers to the number of ribs or wales per inch. A 21 wale corduroy is a fine wale, meaning it has many narrow ribs, creating a more subtle and refined corduroy texture compared to wider wale fabrics.

While it's a stable and relatively easy fabric to handle, its non-stretch nature means precise cutting and sewing are important. Beginners who are comfortable with basic garment construction techniques will find it manageable. Projects like simple skirts or drawstring bags are good starting points.

This fabric is primarily designed for dressmaking. While it has some durability, it may not be as hard-wearing as dedicated upholstery fabrics and might not meet specific fire retardancy standards for furniture.

Always consult your sewing pattern's fabric requirements. As this fabric is sold by the metre and is 144cm wide, consider the layout of your pattern pieces to determine the most economical length.

It is excellent for structured garments such as trousers, skirts, jackets, and dresses. It's also suitable for accessories like bags and caps, or home decor items like cushions where a defined texture is desired.

Like most woven fabrics, the cut edges will fray slightly. It is recommended to finish the raw edges of your seams using a serger, zigzag stitch, or pinking shears to prevent excessive fraying over time.

Ensure you are using a standard 40-degree wash and avoid harsh detergents. A fabric softener can help restore suppleness, but test on a scrap first.

Check that your sewing machine needle is sharp and appropriate for woven fabrics (e.g., a universal or microtex needle). Ensure the needle is correctly inserted and the machine is threaded properly.

Ensure your cutting surface is flat and stable. Use a sharp rotary cutter and mat, or high-quality fabric shears. Pre-pressing the fabric can also help create a crisper edge for easier cutting.