Although I have worked in a fabric shop and loved fabric all my 61 years this is a new word for my fabric dictionary! Never too old to learn every day - thank you for this really brilliant series x
I love learning about fabrics that I have never heard of before. The videos must give many of us the confidence to try something new armed with a better understanding of how that fabric works and the results we could get. Love the pattern ideas as well.
Just loving this series! Had never even heard of Bengaline until I got the fabric guide. And these videos are the cherry on the top, thank you for sharing all this knowledge with us.
I love sewing with Bengaline. It’s so stable and l durable. I’m always careful to use an ironing cloth as it can leave shiny marks when pressed. Thanks Minerva for another great video. X
I have heard of bengalene but never sewn with it but this video has inspired me to give it a try as I am wanting to make some trousers. Thank you for bringing this fabric to my attention.
Loved this video. Thank you for the fantastic details. I have about 3 pairs of rtw trousers in bengaline. I didnt know what the fabric was. They are so comfortable and flattering. I altered one pair and sewed like a dream. Ill definitely make more trousers and a jacket is a must have too. Im very excited x
Been dressmaking 50 years, never used bengaline, however I’ve just bought the style arc Cheryl stretch pant pattern, which is specifically for bengaline so I will be trying it soon. Thanks for the video
Bengaline is a fabulous fabric, one that I haven't used too often. This was a great explanation and I'm inspired to sew something with Bengaline soon :-)
Like learning about the fabrics and I liked the patterns too. It is difficult shopping and finding that the sales people have no idea how to cut the fabric let alone know anything about the fabrics and the best way to use them. Liked the 50's style flared dress and how you recommended Bengaline as it would keep the shape of the flared skirt.
Im new to sewing. I hadnt heard of this fabric but can see its usefulness. With its sretch and structure. Looking forward to Jo's tips. Definately a fabric i would like to sew with. Thank you 😊 ❤
I bought this Guide, it is brilliant. So much more in it and your videos than I thought possible. I you can only buy one book this year, it has to be this one. Very well put together and having the samples of cloth is amazing.
Wow! This looks like the perfect fabric for my stretch jeans pattern that asks for 30% stretch denim! I’ve never found any but this could be the answer. Thank you! I particularly like that it’s not a polyester fabric, as I really hate that and would never buy it… viscose, nylon, yay! Xxx
Thanks so much for this series. I love watching Vicki describe the fabric and the pattern pairings are so inspiring. I’m off now to watch Jo’s video for her tips on sewing. ❤
This is my first visit to your channel. Thank you for such a great lesson on the Bengaline fabric. Very interesting. I have just one question. Does the fabric breathe? I bought a fun lime green jacket for its color and versatile style. But to my great disappointment, after I have been wearing it for a very short time I feel like body is suffocating and I start sweating. No breathability at all. I have my fingers crossed that this beautiful fabric, because it is a woven is comfortable to wear in most types of weather, even indoor in a warm room.
The Bengaline fabrics that have a high viscose or rayon content are breathable to an extent because of the fibre. However, I wouldn't say they are as breathable as, say, a viscose challis, for example, or a lighter weight cotton. Bengaline does have a good weight to it, and because of its rib type texture, it's not going to feel as breathable as some other fabrics. However, compared to a polyester suiting of a similar weight, then a viscose blend Bengaline would certainly be more breathable. It's all relative and depends on what you compare it to. Hope this helps!
Years ago when nurses still wore white uniforms, I had several that were made from bengaline fabric and were very easy to care for (and lasted forever). I have never sewn with it but think it should be a breeze.
Hi Lisa, thanks for watching! The Pattern is the Savannah dress (www.minerva.com/mp/1/MP1012-A-M) and the fabric is our beautiful sweater knit fabric (www.minerva.com/mp/1/PSKTS1-M00110)
Hi Anne, thanks for watching. I'd probably not recommend this for a bag because of the stretch. A medium or heavy weight faux leather fabric (non-stretch) like the ones under this link would be ideal; www.minerva.com/mp?page=1&sort=trending&stretch=Non+Stretch&substrate=Leather&type=Fabrics
If you have to cut the pattern out across the fabric to benefit from the stretch, is there enough room in the 147cm width for the pieces required for a panel dress or long trousers?
Hi, yes for most pattern pieces there would be enough space in the width as it's a nice wide width fabric. To be 100% sure though you can always measure your pattern pieces first and check none are longer than 147cm. But few pattern pieces would ever be that long.
Hi Tina, there isn't unfortunately, it really does just depend on the pattern. Best way to estimate it is to lay your pattern pieces out (on a table or the floor etc), imagining where they would go on your fabric, and then measure the length you need based off the width of those pattern pieces.
I only heard of this fabric. I am thinking I'd like to purchase some. Thank you for doing this and I hope you continue to show videos like this. So many fabrics that I have no idea what they are and what can I make with them. Thank you. I would love to know how to sew with Crepe DeShin (no sure of spelling). I see beautiful designs but hear it's a pain to sew with.
Would you perhaps expand a bit on sewing tips and care instructions for bengaline in the notes here or a separate video? How to prepare the fabric for sewing; do you recommend zigzag for durable seams; what machine needle and thread you recommend; how to press as we sew; how to wash the garment; no-nos we don't know because it's a new fabric to us.
Although I have worked in a fabric shop and loved fabric all my 61 years this is a new word for my fabric dictionary! Never too old to learn every day - thank you for this really brilliant series x
Wonderful! Thanks so much for watching 🙂
I love learning about fabrics that I have never heard of before. The videos must give many of us the confidence to try something new armed with a better understanding of how that fabric works and the results we could get. Love the pattern ideas as well.
Thanks so much!
Just loving this series! Had never even heard of Bengaline until I got the fabric guide. And these videos are the cherry on the top, thank you for sharing all this knowledge with us.
Thank you so much!
I love sewing with Bengaline. It’s so stable and l durable. I’m always careful to use an ironing cloth as it can leave shiny marks when pressed. Thanks Minerva for another great video. X
That's a really good tip, thanks for sharing!
I’ve never heard of it but I’m certainly keen to give it a try! 🤩🤩
Happy sewing 🙂
I have heard of bengalene but never sewn with it but this video has inspired me to give it a try as I am wanting to make some trousers. Thank you for bringing this fabric to my attention.
Most welcome 😊 happy sewing!
Loved this video. Thank you for the fantastic details. I have about 3 pairs of rtw trousers in bengaline. I didnt know what the fabric was. They are so comfortable and flattering. I altered one pair and sewed like a dream. Ill definitely make more trousers and a jacket is a must have too. Im very excited x
Fantastic! Happy sewing 🙂
Been dressmaking 50 years, never used bengaline, however I’ve just bought the style arc Cheryl stretch pant pattern, which is specifically for bengaline so I will be trying it soon. Thanks for the video
Fantastic! It's a brilliant fabric for this pattern!
So interesting! Never heard of bengaline fabric. Love some of those patterns 🫶👌
Thank you! 😊
Bengaline is a fabulous fabric, one that I haven't used too often. This was a great explanation and I'm inspired to sew something with Bengaline soon :-)
Thanks so much!
I had not heard of Bengaline before I bought the Fabric Guide and now I am aware of it will plan to make something using it...Grace
Like learning about the fabrics and I liked the patterns too. It is difficult shopping and finding that the sales people have no idea how to cut the fabric let alone know anything about the fabrics and the best way to use them. Liked the 50's style flared dress and how you recommended Bengaline as it would keep the shape of the flared skirt.
Very helpful ❤
Thanks so much!
Im new to sewing. I hadnt heard of this fabric but can see its usefulness. With its sretch and structure. Looking forward to Jo's tips. Definately a fabric i would like to sew with. Thank you 😊 ❤
Thanks so much for watching!
I bought this Guide, it is brilliant. So much more in it and your videos than I thought possible. I you can only buy one book this year, it has to be this one. Very well put together and having the samples of cloth is amazing.
Thank you so much for the lovely recommendation ♥️
I have made pants with Bengaline and love it! Thank you for the great video!
Thanks so much for watching!
Wow! This looks like the perfect fabric for my stretch jeans pattern that asks for 30% stretch denim! I’ve never found any but this could be the answer. Thank you! I particularly like that it’s not a polyester fabric, as I really hate that and would never buy it… viscose, nylon, yay! Xxx
Hi Karen, thanks for watching! Yes it's perfect for trouser patterns that require that much stretch! 😁
Is the pinstripe on the length or width of the fabric?
Hi Lori, the stripe goes across the width (from selvedge to selvedge). Thanks for watching!
Thanks so much for this series. I love watching Vicki describe the fabric and the pattern pairings are so inspiring. I’m off now to watch Jo’s video for her tips on sewing. ❤
I'm so glad!
Really fascinating - can’t wait for Jo’s hints and tips video!
It's on the channel now 🙂
I've heard of it. That navy blue looks divine!!! Well done on your video! Very informative and inspiring, thank you!
Thanks so much!
This is my first visit to your channel. Thank you for such a great lesson on the Bengaline fabric. Very interesting. I have just one question. Does the fabric breathe? I bought a fun lime green jacket for its color and versatile style. But to my great disappointment, after I have been wearing it for a very short time I feel like body is suffocating and I start sweating. No breathability at all. I have my fingers crossed that this beautiful fabric, because it is a woven is comfortable to wear in most types of weather, even indoor in a warm room.
The Bengaline fabrics that have a high viscose or rayon content are breathable to an extent because of the fibre. However, I wouldn't say they are as breathable as, say, a viscose challis, for example, or a lighter weight cotton. Bengaline does have a good weight to it, and because of its rib type texture, it's not going to feel as breathable as some other fabrics. However, compared to a polyester suiting of a similar weight, then a viscose blend Bengaline would certainly be more breathable. It's all relative and depends on what you compare it to. Hope this helps!
Years ago when nurses still wore white uniforms, I had several that were made from bengaline fabric and were very easy to care for (and lasted forever). I have never sewn with it but think it should be a breeze.
Oh that's interesting! I can imagine it would be perfect for nurses uniforms!
Love this series.
Thanks so much!
I've made smart pants in bengaline .. really loved them .. i wore them out!
That's great to hear!
Great video , very informative! Off topic here, but can you tell me the pattern and fabric of the top Vicki is wearing please? I love it!
Hi Lisa, thanks for watching! The Pattern is the Savannah dress (www.minerva.com/mp/1/MP1012-A-M) and the fabric is our beautiful sweater knit fabric (www.minerva.com/mp/1/PSKTS1-M00110)
I purchased some Bengaline a very long time ago for hat making.
Oh interesting! It has so many uses!
So interesting. I've never heard of bengaline. I wish you had done some close-ups to see the texture and pinstripes.
Thanks for your feedback
What type of needle is required?
Hi Faith, we cover all this in Jo's video (which is coming at 6pm GMT tonight) 🙂
I have heard about this fabric. The black pu option, can this be used for bag making? Looking forward to Jo's vlog ❤
Hi Anne, thanks for watching. I'd probably not recommend this for a bag because of the stretch. A medium or heavy weight faux leather fabric (non-stretch) like the ones under this link would be ideal; www.minerva.com/mp?page=1&sort=trending&stretch=Non+Stretch&substrate=Leather&type=Fabrics
If you have to cut the pattern out across the fabric to benefit from the stretch, is there enough room in the 147cm width for the pieces required for a panel dress or long trousers?
Hi, yes for most pattern pieces there would be enough space in the width as it's a nice wide width fabric. To be 100% sure though you can always measure your pattern pieces first and check none are longer than 147cm. But few pattern pieces would ever be that long.
Is there a general rule on how much extra fabric needed for laying out on the bias?
Hi Tina, there isn't unfortunately, it really does just depend on the pattern. Best way to estimate it is to lay your pattern pieces out (on a table or the floor etc), imagining where they would go on your fabric, and then measure the length you need based off the width of those pattern pieces.
I only heard of this fabric. I am thinking I'd like to purchase some. Thank you for doing this and I hope you continue to show videos like this. So many fabrics that I have no idea what they are and what can I make with them. Thank you. I would love to know how to sew with Crepe DeShin (no sure of spelling). I see beautiful designs but hear it's a pain to sew with.
Thanks so much for the feedback. We'll be touching on Crepe de Chine in our Crepe videos, which will be coming up in a few weeks' time
Would you perhaps expand a bit on sewing tips and care instructions for bengaline in the notes here or a separate video? How to prepare the fabric for sewing; do you recommend zigzag for durable seams; what machine needle and thread you recommend; how to press as we sew; how to wash the garment; no-nos we don't know because it's a new fabric to us.
We cover all this in Jo's video, which is now live and you can watch here; th-cam.com/video/pyuRAyt9PMo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=YVK_isZ9JwzhLjFS
xXX👍👍👍