Denim Fabric Properties

Denim is a sturdy cotton twill, traditionally dyed with indigo. It is tough, ages with character, and is a staple for hard-wearing projects.

Property Detail
Fiber Cotton (twill weave)
Feel Firm, heavy, structured
Absorbency Moderate
Durability Very high
Shrinkage Yes, and fades
Care Wash cold to limit fading
Common uses Jeans, jackets, bags

Working with denim

Denim is thick and abrasive on needles. Use a denim needle and take care at seam intersections, where many layers stack up.

Wash cold, inside out. To limit fading and shrinkage, wash denim cold and turned inside out. Prewash before cutting if final size matters.

See the Canvas Fabric Properties and the Cotton Fabric Properties.

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