10 Creative Ways to Source Woven Fabric

If you love sewing but want to avoid buying new fabric all the time, you’re in luck! You can source woven fabric from places other than your local fabric store. Many everyday items are made from woven fabrics that can be reused for sewing projects. Thrift stores, garage sales, and even your own home are filled with woven fabrics.

Here are 10 ways to source woven fabrics for your sewing projects that are both eco-friendly and budget-conscious.

1. Bed Sheets

Flat sheets are like fabric gold—huge swathes of material perfect for a wide range of projects. Woven cotton or linen sheets work well for clothing, aprons, or even pillowcases. Plus, bed sheets often come in matching sets, which is ideal if you need coordinating colors or patterns.

My Tamarack Jacket with hacked hood, shown above, was made with an old Target quilt.

2. Tablecloths

Tablecloths, especially those made from cotton, linen, or polyester blends, come in a variety of patterns and sizes. These large pieces of fabric are ideal for projects like tote bags, cushion covers, or even small apparel pieces. Check thrift stores or clearance sections for tablecloths in interesting patterns or seasonal themes.

3. Shower Curtains

While some shower curtains are plastic, you can find woven options made of cotton or polyester. These are generally water-resistant, making them perfect for reusable shopping bags, outdoor cushions, or other projects that benefit from extra durability. Just be sure to give them a thorough wash before starting your project.

4. Curtains or Drapes

Curtains provide substantial fabric, often in beautiful patterns and textures. You can reuse lightweight curtains for items like drawstring bags or scarves, while thicker, lined drapes are excellent for upholstery projects or making fabric baskets.

I’ve made several pillows out of old curtains and they have held up really well!

5. Clothing

Men’s or women’s button-down shirts can provide a surprising amount of fabric, particularly in the back and sleeves. Look for shirts in cotton, linen, or flannel for cozy projects like baby clothes, aprons, or reusable gift wrap.

Woven dresses or skirts, especially those with interesting patterns, can be disassembled for projects that require smaller amounts of fabric, like kids clothes, shirts, or tank tops. Look for items in good condition and washable material.

6. Pillow Covers

Old pillow covers, especially those with zippers or interesting textures, are perfect for smaller projects like pouches, wallets, or even quilt squares. Woven pillow covers often come in sturdy fabrics and unique designs that are hard to find in fabric stores.

7. Fabric Napkins

Cloth napkins are typically made from cotton or linen and come in convenient sizes for smaller projects. They’re ideal for quilting, patchwork, or even coasters. You’ll find many high-quality, durable options at thrift stores in sets, which makes it easy to get matching fabrics.

8. Table Runners

Table runners often feature unique designs and textures, from seasonal motifs to woven patterns. They’re great for narrow projects like book covers, pencil cases, or small bags. Table runners tend to be thick and sturdy, perfect for projects that need a little extra structure.

9. Canvas Tote Bags

Canvas totes often come in sturdy materials that can be repurposed for other sewing projects. You can use the fabric from old totes to make smaller pouches, phone cases, or utility aprons. Some totes also have unique graphics, which add a decorative touch.

10. Aprons

Vintage aprons or chef’s aprons often come in high-quality woven cotton or linen, sometimes featuring charming patterns or trims. Aprons are great for small sewing projects like pot holders, cloth napkins, or gift bags. Plus, if you find aprons with pockets, you can incorporate them directly into your design for added functionality.

Different Ways to Source Woven Fabric

If you’re wondering where to find these ways to source woven fabric, start with:

• Facebook marketplace
• Buy nothing groups
• Thrift stores
• Garage sales
• Estate sales
• Friends & Family

It may take awhile, but once you start to refine your Facebook marketplace algorithm and once your friends and family know you are looking to source woven fabric, you will be surprised how easily it comes to you! I found that once people knew I liked to sew, they would offer me linens and other materials they were getting rid of.

Incorporate Sustainable Ways to Source Woven Fabrics

By repurposing fabric from existing items, you’re not only saving money but also supporting sustainable practices. Reusing what you already have or can source secondhand is a wonderful way to approach sewing with creativity and resourcefulness. Happy crafting!