Plain Basic Fabrics

 

Popular Plain Basic Fabrics

Plain Basic Fabrics come in a huge variety of weights, textures, drapes, and fibre contents. From natural fibres like cotton and linen to blends like polycotton or stretch jersey, each type of fabric offers its own unique properties and uses. 

Cotton & Polycotton

Plain cotton fabric is a timeless favourite, valued for its breathability and ease of sewing. It’s equally suited to casual shirts, summer skirts, quilting, or household crafts. For a budget-friendly option, polycotton blends the softness of cotton with the wrinkle resistance of polyester, making it a practical choice for school uniforms or aprons.

Muslin & Gauze Fabric

Muslin is one of the most versatile plain basic fabrics, loved for its soft texture and light, airy drape. It’s widely used for making toiles (practice garments) or soft household items. Gauze fabric offers a similar lightness, with a slightly more open weave that makes it breathable and easy to layer. 

Linen & Canvas

Plain linen is a natural, breathable material with a rich texture that gets softer with every wash. It’s ideal for warm-weather wear or table linens. Canvas, meanwhile, is a sturdier plain fabric with durability and weight, perfect for bags or utility clothing. Both are staples in basic fabrics collections.

Plain Jersey & Stretch Fabrics

For projects that demand comfort and flexibility, plain jersey and plain stretch fabric are essential. Soft and easy to wear, these fabrics are often used in T-shirts, dresses, leggings, or loungewear. Their stretch properties allow for movement while still maintaining shape, making them a favourite in everyday wardrobes.

Organza & Chiffon

For delicate, semi-sheer garments, organza and chiffon are lightweight textiles with a smooth fabric surface and elegant drape. They’re often chosen for evening wear, special occasion outfits, or layered skirts. Organza offers crisp structure, while chiffon flows more freely with a soft, elegant design.

Plain Drill Fabric 

Plain drill fabric, woven in a diagonal twill, is strong and hard-wearing, making it a go-to for uniforms and workwear. Plain drill fabrics offer substance and durability compared to lighter plain fabrics.

Lining Fabric

No collection of plain fabrics is complete without lining fabric. Lightweight and smooth, it’s the hidden layer that gives garments a professional finish. Lining supports shape and ensures seams look neat inside and out.

 

Choosing the Right Plain Fabric

When selecting plain basic fabrics, think about:

• Fabric Weight - Lightweight chiffon and muslin for airy garments; midweight cotton and polycotton for everyday clothing; heavy drill or canvas for durability.
  

• Fibre Content - Natural fibres like cotton and linen for breathability; polyester blends for wrinkle resistance and easy care.
  

• Texture & Drape - Smooth fabrics (satin-lined or chiffon) for elegance, or drill for structure.
  

• Transparency - Organza and chiffon for overlays, cotton and canvas for stand-alone projects.
  

• Colour Options - Neutrals, or bold tones, easy to dye or print on if you want to customise.
  
  

By matching these properties to your project, you’ll ensure your plain fabrics look beautiful and perform reliably.

Plain Basic Fabrics by the Metre & Samples

At Cheap Fabrics, all plain basic fabrics are sold by the metre, giving you total flexibility whether you need just half a metre for a craft or several metres for a full garment.

To help you choose confidently, samples are also available. Ordering a swatch lets you:

• Feel the texture and softness before committing.
  

• Check colours in natural and indoor lighting.
  

• Compare fabrics against other textiles in your project.
  
  

This way, you can plan with confidence and avoid waste, whether you’re a hobbyist, student, or professional designer.

Why Shop Plain Basic Fabrics at Cheap Fabrics?

• Huge variety of plain fabrics, from cotton and muslin to canvas and jersey.
  

• Affordable pricing across all basic fabrics, ideal for every budget.
  

• Fabric samples available to order, giving you confidence in your choice.
  

• Fast, reliable UK delivery.
  

• Trusted by thousands of customers as a go-to fabric store online.
  
  

Shop online today and bring your next project to life with our premium Plain Basic Fabrics. Browse our wholesale fabric collection for best bulk prices.

FAQs

Q: What are plain basic fabrics used for?

A: They’re versatile textiles used in clothing, crafts, quilting, lining, and interiors. Their simplicity makes them the “essential basics” for makers.

Q: Can I buy plain cotton fabric by the metre?

A: Yes, all our plain fabrics are sold by the metre, so you can order exactly the quantity you need.

Q: Do you stock plain lining fabric?

A: Absolutely. Our plain lining fabrics provide the finishing touch for jackets, shirts, dresses, and skirts.

Q: Are plain fabrics beginner-friendly?

A: Yes! Cotton, polycotton, muslin, and jersey are easy to handle, making them perfect for beginners. Lightweight chiffon and organza require a little more care.

Q: Do you deliver plain fabrics UK-wide?

A: Yes, we offer fast, reliable UK delivery across our full range of plain and basic fabrics.