Tag Archives: natural slipcover fabrics

Natural Canvas: 3 Favorites for Slipcovers

Natural canvas is one of the most popular fabrics used for casual, washable slipcovers.  Why? It’s affordable, durable and versatile. Below are 3 of my favorites.

Natural Cotton Duck for SlipcoversNatural Cotton Duck #12 Weight:  This tough cloth is designed for tents, awnings and tote bags but I found it works great for slipcovers. Pile on the kids and pets! It’s denser, thicker and more durable than 10 oz and 12 oz canvas. The look is simple, wrinkled and super casual. I buy it at Big Duck Canvas.

Cotton Poly Blend Canvas Natural

Natural Cotton Poly Canvas 12 oz:  No extreme wrinkles! This lovely cotton canvas is blended with a bit of polyester, which helps soften the wrinkle and adds strength. The subtle rib in the weave replaces the grainy texture found in 100% cotton canvas. I think you’ll love the French laundered look after it’s washed — softy crumpled, relaxed and very cottage-y.

Washed Natural 10 oz. Canvas SlipcoverNatural Cotton Canvas 10 oz:  Sewing your own slipcover? This 10 oz. canvas will sew just fine on your home sewing machine.  It’s the most economical canvas, a good choice when you’re on a tight budget and want to make a simple, medium weight slipcover. The hand-feel softens after it’s washed and takes on a relaxed, broken-in look with a grainy texture. Expect high wrinkle. I buy it at Big Duck Canvas.

Check out my reviews of the two Big Duck natural canvas fabrics mentioned above to get an idea of shrinkage and usage. Don’t forget to follow my fabric pre-shrink instructions to minimize wrinkles.

Slipcover Fabric Favorite: Oatmeal Linen Cotton

Linen Cotton Chair Slipcover

Many of you have asked for an oatmeal linen cotton that’s slipcover worthy. Good news! I found one I think you’re going to love. It’s called LATIN and it’s a beauty!

When I first sampled this fabric from InstaLinen I was immediately drawn to the simple rustic texture and two-tone natural color. Think hemp grain sacks and homespun linen sheets. I especially like the look & feel of this cloth for making cottage and farmhouse style slipcovers.

Oatmeal Linen Cotton Slipcover

Washable and tightly woven, this 12 oz linen cotton blend is a good choice for casual slipcovers that get moderate use.  Here’s what you can expect:

  • High shrinkage during pre-shrink (5″ on a one yard length and 3″ on the width).
  • Grainy, soft crumpled texture after wash. Be sure to follow my wash instructions to avoid deep set wrinkles.
  • Subtle stretch up the roll (on the straight of grain).
  • Easy to sew on a home sewing machine.
  • Versatile design appeal. Will make up nicely in any style of slipcover.

Oatmeal Linen Cotton Armchair Slipcover

Slipcover Fabric Favorite: Stone Washed Canvas

Canvas made from 100% cotton, cotton blends, linen and hemp make a casual, versatile slipcover for everyday use.

Grey Stonewashed Canvas or SlipcoversOne of my new favorites is Vintage Stone Washed Canvas in color Grey Stone, a cotton poly blend with a subtle distressed finish.

Stone wash gives this thick, durable fabric a soft, broken-in feel. Very comfy! The little bit of polyester content minimizes wrinkle.

For best results, preshrink this canvas to work out residual shrinkage. Washing & drying the yardage will also enhance the softness.