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Beware of Fabrics With Subtle Naps

We all know that napped fabrics like velvet and corduroy need to have their pattern
pieces laid out in one direction so the nap will run the same way on our finished item.

But did you know there are fabrics with much more subtle naps? Fabrics like flannel,
sweatshirt fleece, and satin. And that we need to use the “with nap” layout for these
fabrics too?

Because the naps on these fabrics are so subtle, the way we lay our pattern pieces may
not seem a big deal. But once our item is finished and the light hits it a certain way, the
difference may become glaringly obvious. Parts of our garment may appear to be slightly
different shades.

To determine if your fabric has a nap, run your hand up and down the fabric. Does it feel
smoother in one direction? Fold your fabric right sides together and turn back one
corner. Do both sides look the same? If you’re still not sure, use the “with nap” layout
just to be on the safe side.
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