Cancan Fabric: The Sewing Staple for Structure and Flair

Have you ever admired a flowing gown that billows out with every step, or a skirt that holds its shape perfectly during a twirl? The secret behind that delightful movement and structure often lies in a hidden hero: cancan fabric.

This seemingly ordinary material plays a crucial part in crafting beautiful silhouettes and providing fullness to clothing. But what exactly is cancan fabric, and how can you incorporate it to enhance your sewing endeavors? This detailed manual will reveal the marvels of cancan fabric, from its characteristics to its wide range of uses.

What is Cancan Fabric?

Cancan cloth, additionally called hard mesh net fabric, is a lightweight, open-weave netting normally crafted from polyester. Its defining feature is its stiffness which permits it to keep its form and create volume. This stiffness comes from a unique completing system carried out to the cloth.

Despite its rigidity, cancan cloth stays breathable because of its open weave. It`s additionally to be had in a variety of widths (typically around 44 inches) and is derived in various colors, with white being the maximum famous desire for its versatility.

Key Features of Cancan Fabric

Here's a breakdown of the key features that make cancan fabric such a valuable tool for sewers:

Stiffness: The primary characteristic, providing structure and volume to garments.
Lightweight: Doesn't add significant weight to your project.
Breathable: Open weave allows for air circulation.
Easy to work with: Can be easily cut and sewn.
Dyeable (in some cases): Some cancan fabrics can be dyed to match your project's color scheme.
Affordable: Generally a cost-effective addition to your project.

The Many Uses of Cancan Fabric

Cancan fabric's unique properties make it a versatile material that can be used for a variety of purposes in the sewing world. Let's take a look at some of the most common uses:

Adding volume to skirts and dresses: This is probably the most well-known use for cancan fabric. It creates a beautiful fullness that allows for graceful movement in skirts, dresses, and even petticoats.
Creating structured bodices: A single layer of cancan fabric can add subtle structure and definition to tops, especially in lighter fabrics.
Underskirts for added support: Cancan fabric is popular as a petticoat for traditional garments such as lehengas and sarees as it provides support and prevents the fabric from sticking to the body.
Costumes and theatrical wear: With its ability to hold shape and create dramatic volume, cancan fabric is ideal for creating voluminous costumes and theatre wear.
Crafting and decorations: In addition to clothing, the stiffness of the fabric can also be used for craft projects such as tutus, headpieces, and even table decorations.

Cancan Fabric for Lehengas: A Perfect Match

Lehengas, a traditional Indian garment, often benefit greatly from the use of cancan fabric. Here's how:

Enhances the silhouette: Can can fabric enhances the elegant shape of the lehenga skirt with its flare and volume.
Provides support and structure: Cancan fabric is stiff and prevents the lehenga from clinging to the body, allowing it to drape comfortably and flatteringly.
Lightweight and breathable: Despite adding volume, cancan fabric remains lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for warmer climates.

Soft Cancan Fabric: Does it Exist?

Traditional cancan fabrics are known for being stiff, but some variations offer a slightly softer feel. These fabrics can be created using different weaving or finishing processes, resulting in a bit more flexibility. However, it is important to note that even a "soft" cancan fabric will still provide some structure compared to a completely fluffy dough.

Sewing with Cancan Fabric: Tips and Tricks

Ready to use cancan fabric in your project? Here are some helpful tips:

Choose the right weight: When choosing a cancan fabric weight, take into account the weight of your main fabric and the desired volume.
Pre-washing: While not always necessary, pre-washing your cancan fabric can help minimize shrinkage and ensure the final dimensions align with your project.
Cutting: Cancan fabric can be easily cut with sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter.
Sewing: Use a universal needle and a slightly longer stitch length (around 3mm) for smoother sewing.
Attaching to your garment: There are several ways to attach cancan fabric to your main garment. You can simply layer it underneath and secure it with stitching at the waistline or hem. Alternatively, for a more finished look, you can gather the top edge of the cancan fabric and attach it to the lining of your garment.
Layering: You can layer multiple pieces of cancan fabric with varying stiffnesses to add volume.

Conclusion

Cancan fabric is a hidden gem in the sewing world, offering a simple and effective way to enhance your projects. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool for any seamstress, from the graceful movement of skirts and dresses to the construction of bodices and lehengas. With its affordability, ease of use, and wide range of uses, tin fabric is sure to become a staple in your sewing arsenal.

So, what are you waiting for? Unleash the creative possibilities with can can fabric and witness the transformation in your next sewing project!

Visit Studio LCX today and explore our selection of can can fabric to bring your design visions to life!