🌹 Golden Rose Guide: Brushed Cotton Fabric

Soft, warm, and wonderfully versatile, brushed cotton is a favourite for garments and home textiles that feel as good as they look. In this guide, we’ll explore what brushed cotton is, what you can sew with it, tips for sewing, and recommended patterns to help you get started.

🧵 What is Brushed Cotton?

Brushed cotton is a woven cotton fabric that has been gently brushed on one or both sides to raise the fibres, creating a soft, slightly fuzzy surface. This process not only enhances comfort but also improves insulation, making it ideal for cooler weather.

• Fibre Content: Usually 100% cotton, though sometimes blended with polyester for durability.

• Weight: Ranges from lightweight shirting to heavier flannel weights.

• Finish: Can be brushed on one side (for a smooth reverse) or both sides (for extra softness).

• Feel: Warm, cosy, and breathable — with a matte, slightly textured appearance.

  
  

✂️ What Can You Sew with Brushed Cotton?

Project Type	Why It Works Well
Shirts & Blouses	Soft against the skin, yet structured enough to hold shape. Perfect for casual button-downs.
Pyjamas & Loungewear	Warmth and breathability make it ideal for sleepwear.
Dresses & Skirts	Works beautifully for autumn/winter styles with a bit of body.
Children’s Clothing	Gentle on skin and easy to wash — great for play clothes.
Home Textiles	Cushion covers, lightweight blankets, and cosy bedding.

🪡 Tips for Sewing with Brushed Cotton

• Pre-Wash & Dry: Brushed cotton can shrink — always pre-wash before cutting.

• Cutting: Use sharp fabric shears or a rotary cutter to avoid fraying edges.

• Needles: A universal needle (size 80/12) works well; for heavier weights, try 90/14.

• Seam Finishes: Overlock or zigzag raw edges to prevent fraying.

• Pressing: Use a medium heat iron with steam; press on the wrong side to avoid flattening the brushed texture.

• Pattern Matching: Plaid or check brushed cottons require careful alignment at seams.

  
  

📐 Recommended Sewing Patterns (Brushed Cotton Friendly)

Tops & Shirts

• Archer Button Up – Grainline Studio

• Rosa Shirt – Tilly and the Buttons

  
  

Dresses & Skirts

• Hinterland Dress – Sew Liberated

• Cleo Pinafore – Tilly and the Buttons

  
  

Pyjamas & Loungewear

• Carolyn Pyjamas – Closet Core Patterns

• Juno Pyjamas – Tilly and the Buttons

  
  

Children’s Wear

• Geranium Dress – Made by Rae

• Parsley Pants – Made by Rae

  
  

Home Textiles

• Wiksten Oversized Kimono Jacket – Wiksten (also works as a robe)

• Simple Envelope Cushion Covers – Self‑drafted (no link)

  
  

🧺 Fabric Care

• Washing: Cold or warm gentle cycle to preserve softness.

• Drying: Air dry or tumble dry on low to prevent excessive shrinkage.

• Storage: Fold neatly; avoid hanging heavy garments to prevent stretching.

  
  

Golden Rose Tip: Brushed cotton is the perfect “comfort fabric” — it sews like a dream, feels luxurious, and wears beautifully over time. With the right care, your brushed cotton makes will be wardrobe and home favourites for years.

Happy Sewing!!!