Minerva Core Range Stretch Woven Bengaline Suiting Fabric - Turquoise
The Minerva Stretch Woven Bengaline Suiting is a versatile, medium-weight fabric perfect for dress...The Minerva Stretch Woven Bengaline Suiting is a versatile, medium-weight fabric perfect for dressmaking. With a composition of 77% viscose, 20% nylon, and 3% elastane, this fabric offers a comfortable crosswise stretch, excellent shape retention, and a firm, smooth handle. Its plain design and beautiful turquoise color make it a versatile choice for creating fitted trousers, pencil skirts, structured dresses, jackets, and waistcoats. The fabric has a weight of 220 gsm and a width of approximately 147.5cm (59 inches). It is machine washable at 40 degrees, ensuring ease of care. Fabric is cut from the roll and available to order by the metre; all orders are dispatched as one continuous piece.
The Minerva Core Range Stretch Woven Bengaline Suiting is an ideal choice for dressmakers who need a structured yet comfortable fabric for professional or smart-casual garments. It is best suited for those creating fitted trousers, pencil skirts, and tailored jackets where shape retention is key. While its 3% elastane content provides a convenient crosswise stretch, crafters should note that the fabric's medium-weight and firm handle make it less suitable for flowing or draping silhouettes.
All features
Model Part Number
Bengaline-Turq
Brand
Minerva Core Range
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Is this fabric suitable for a beginner?
Yes, its stable nature makes it easier to cut and sew than slippery or lightweight fabrics.
Does the fabric stretch in both directions?
No, it features crosswise stretch (from selvedge to selvedge), which is ideal for fitted garment silhouettes.
Can I tumble dry this fabric?
While machine washing is safe at 40 degrees, it is recommended to air dry to prolong the elasticity of the fibers.
How is the fabric delivered if I order multiple metres?
All orders are cut from the roll and dispatched as one continuous piece.
Do I need to line garments made from this fabric?
Because of its medium weight and opacity, lining is optional but recommended for jackets or structured dresses for a more professional finish.
Troubleshooting
Needle skipping stitches
Switch to a fresh universal or stretch needle and ensure your presser foot tension is correctly balanced.
Fabric fraying at cut edges
Finish all raw seams with a zig-zag stitch or a serger/overlocker immediately after cutting to prevent unravelling.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Excellent shape retention for structured garments
Comfortable crosswise stretch for fitted designs
Durable blend of fibers that holds up to regular wear
Easy to clean with machine washability at 40 degrees
Firm, smooth handle creates a polished finish
Cons
Not suitable for garments requiring fluid drape
Limited to solid colors (plain design)
Medium weight may be too heavy for summer blouses
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Preparation: Pre-wash your fabric according to the care instructions to account for any initial shrinkage before cutting your patterns.
Cutting: Use sharp fabric shears or a rotary cutter. Given the 147.5cm width, you can fit larger pattern pieces comfortably, but ensure your grainline is aligned with the selvage.
Sewing: Use a medium-sized universal needle. A stitch length of 2.5mm is usually sufficient for most construction seams.
Care: Machine wash at 40 degrees. Avoid harsh chemicals. If ironing is required, use a medium setting to protect the elastane fibers from excessive heat damage.