Wool Crepe Fabric - HELP!!

Dear Mignon,

First, wool crepe must be handled very carefully. Never put an iron directly on it or press hard, or you will end up with shiny fabric. Next, it should definitely be lined. If there is no lining pattern with the pattern you plan to use, use the garment pieces to make the lining, except for any facings. Come back here any time as you sew to get more tips.

I like to use a bath towel for pressing, so that I don't flatten the crepe. For pressing seams open, if you don't have a seam roll you can tightly roll up a hand towel and stuff it inside a sock. Using a seam roll avoids ridges when pressing seams open.

Teri

Teri, thank you so much for your suggestions. Now... since it is 100% wool, I was thinking that perhaps I should use a very light weight silk lining? What are your thoughts?

I would. I like to keep all the fabrics in a given project on the same page cleaning-wise if it is at all possible.

NightMist

I also think the silk would be an excellent lining fabric. The one suggestion I would make is that after you sew this and BEFORE you hem it, you hang the completed cape(except for the hemming) for at least few weeks to let that fabric relax a bit and see what way it's going to drape so you can get an even hem. I also pad the hanger with some layers of batting so you don't get "hanger shoulders".

Val

If I could add a suggestion: Have the yardage cleaned the way you will have it cleaned once it is made. That way, any changes to either the wool or the lining will have occurred before you cut and sew.

Thanks so much for your help. The outfit will be full and flowing, so I will line it will silk, following a trip to the dry cleaners. My sister-in-law, who is a seamstress says I shouldn't line it because it is a loose-fitting two-piece dress. I'm a bit confused, but would rather err on the side of caution as opposed to trashing great material.