Some of us set the date well in advance, some of us stumbled on it accidently, while the remainder of us missed it all together and played catch up this morning as newscasters, gossip columns and fashionistas far and wide commented and critiqued the yards of designer fabrics that strutted their stuff on the red carpet hoping to capture the attention of designers and seamstresses alike.
Molded, shaped and married into fashionable creations with both artistic precision and stylish flair, wonderful pieces of material hung elegantly on hanger like bodies, clung embracingly around hour glass figures and draped sensuously on glamorous forms that struck a pose every two minutes for millions of Americans to note and admire.
The Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards, aka SAG Awards, may be embraced as one of the most prestigious award ceremonies in the entertainment industry, an opportunity for actors and actresses alike to be honored and acknowledged by their own peers on their respective crafts.
For people like us who love creating and working with fabric, it is more importantly, an opportunity for us to do the same. Watching the garments parade down the royal red carpet allows us to view and RE-view the wonderful end results of other beautifully imaginative artists and crafters. Blue seemed to be a popular color this year, gracing such notable actresses as Kyra Sedgwick and newcomer Niki Blonsky. Kyra adorned cobalt colored silk crepe with chantilly lace, while Niki embraced her more fluid side in royal blue taffeta.
A hot shade of pink silk organza graced January Jones from top to bottom, as the darker side of green poured lavishly into layers of elegant silk and satin material that shined vibrantly on Diane Lane.
Ashley kept it simple in a vintage bead trimmed white chiffon gown, as Viggio played handsome don in a dark blue pinstripe suit, complete with scarlet vest.
It never ceases to amaze me the way we bring life to this amazing palate of beautiful color and fabric…or is it the other way around?
With so many textures, shades, patterns and prints to choose from, the sky is the limit to your creative imagination.
If you had to honor one fabric with your own award for best performance, which one would it be? The nominees are all right here on our website. Place your vote today!
Lemon, lime, avocado, celery, olive, tangerine…..no, it’s not the list of ingredients for an exotic salad we are making, it’s just some of the fabulous colors we have to offer you from our new Ultra-suede fabric collection.
This beautiful collection has the look and feel of real suede without the animal byproduct. So for all of our vegan friends, search no more. Buffalo, buck, camel and doe may be on our palate list, but none were harmed in bringing these deeply rich and vibrant shades your way.
Made with 100% polyester facing and 50% poly / 50% cotton backing, our ultra suede makes the perfect fabric for stylish upholstering and footwear. The versatility of this soft & durable fabric doesn’t stop here. Create fashionable home accent pieces, garments and accessories from this fabulous modern designer material as well.
Here are some other great ideas people just like you are making with their ultra suede fabrics that are sure to get your own creative juices flowing! With a little imagination and personal touch, you can bring those beautiful one-of-a-kind-ultra-suede craft creations to life!
A new ultra suede window treatment for the library in your mothers old Victorian home…in Taupe.
It was right there by the antique stove that you earned your first burn scar, when you went running through the kitchen top speed and accidentally knocked over a pot of boiling water waiting for the fresh vegetables she picked and prepared for her tasty soup.
It was here, right on this very front porch swing, that you sat for hours waiting for her to arise from her attentively tended flower bed to take you to the park before the slow falling summer sun surrendered her rays to the night.
For all the memories of youth that are still alive in that old Victorian your mother still keeps. For all she has been and done for you during your carefree youthful days; why not return the love by giving the home she holds sacred, an interior upgrade with our beautiful taupe colored ultra suede.
There are many simple styles of curtains, shades, valances, and other window treatments that you can easily create to dress her tall library windows. The key is to keep things in balance, rather than overpower the space with too many contrasting fabrics.
If you are using several fabric treatments in the room, our ultra suede color palate offers soft natural hues as well as rich vibrant tones to mix and match for that perfect look. Coordinate a solid with a print, or combine two contrasting solids together. Our ultra suede offers a stylish and classy finish to an already sophisticated room without taking away from the old fashioned flair. Not only decorative and beautiful, they are easy to make as well.
Using two of the same fabrics already featured in the space, cut pieces from each one that are large enough to cover your windows. Always cut the fabric a bit larger to account for seam allowances. A half inch to one inch on each side is sufficient for window treatments.
Lay out one of the fabric pieces, "face" up, and the other, on top of it, "face" down. Make sure the faces of the fabrics are together. Sew along the top edges and both sides. Turn the shades right-side-out, and sew the bottom edges closed. These window treatments can be hung from ribbons sewn along the top. Add ribbons at the bottom as well, so when you want the shades open you can tie the bottom ribbons to the curtain rod. When the shades are open, both fabrics will be displayed.
If you can hang a curtain rod, you can create dramatic window treatments in five to ten minutes, by draping your luxuriant ultra suede fabric over the rods. This is a lovely no-sew window treatment that anyone can make.
A valance is another favorite among window treatments and usually used for purely decorative purposes. You will need a piece of ultra suede fabric approximately twice as wide as your window and about sixteen inches long.
Start by hemming the sides and bottom to create smooth edges.
Next, fold the top edge over about four inches, toward the backside of the fabric.
Sew a straight line at the two-inch mark, to create a ruffle, and then sew just above the four-inch mark, to attach the bottom edge. This will create a rod pocket.
Slide the valance onto the curtain rod, and scrunch and fluff as desired.
Even if you don't have a lot of decorating or sewing experience, you can make your own window treatments. They are simple and fun to make, and when your guests compliment the look, you have the added bonus of saying you made the treatments yourself.
A simple wrap skirt for the workplace in sky blue.
Contrary to belief, ultra suede material is not just for drapes and upholstery. This soft and durable fabric can be used for a plethora of craft ideas, including clothing.
From coats and shoes, to skirts and dresses, ultra suede offers a clean and stylish look that never goes out of style. Mix and match with complimentary fabrics to create your own unique flair for work or play. Spice up your 9-5 wardrobe with one or two basic pieces straight from the marriage of your creative mind and your sewing machine. Even a simple solid colored wrap skirt can go a long way when cut to the right length. For example, a carefree mid-length a-lined skirt in sky blue can create a versatility that will allow you to throw on heels, flats or boots, with ease. Be the envy of your coworkers by pairing it up with a printed satin top for a truly professional yet fashionable look.
Create coordinated accessories like bags or hats to compliment your newly made skirt for a complete ensemble. A light lining will offer a line of protection and added comfort between you and the slightly weighted backing. Coffee spills and donut icing marks can be quickly and easily removed with a little spot cleaning with soap and warm water. Dry clean for best results.
A Dressy Tote Bag in Pink Poppy to Match Those Fabulous Shoes.
Clutches, satchels, totes or hip purses….“I never saw a bag I didn’t like.“ And with the fabulous color palate available in our ultra suede’s, why should I?
Pink Poppy is my favorite, especially when it matches so perfectly with the pink suede shoes I found on sale last week. But what if I wanted another to match the Ruby reds I purchased for my birthday last month? Solution, make a bag to coordinate!
Soft yet durable, a tote made from an ultra suede material is supple enough to reflect a womans’more feminine side, yet strong enough to handle the many possessions of life she stuffs inside of it. And with the extra space you may discover between the half eaten chocolate brownie and your favorite romance novel, you can put all the money you saved from making it on your own. Pair up with your little girl for a fun & simple ‘ ladies day ’ craft project.
Materials Needed Fabric Thread Webbing (optional)
Directions All Directions are for ½" seams.
Cut fabric 14" by 39" or 2 pieces 14" by 20"
Assembly For fabric cut 14" by 39" - fold fabric in half right sides together to measure 14" by 19½" - seam the 19½" edges. Use a seam finish or double stitch for added strength.
For fabric cut 14" by 20" - Place two pieces of fabric with right sides together - seam the two 20" edges and one 14" edge. Use a seam finish or double stitch each seam for added strength.
At top 14" open edge press under ½", matching wrong sides of the fabric. Press under 1", enclosing ½" raw edge. Top stitch hem in to place. Mark in 2 ½" from the seams on both sides of the bag from both seam edges, on the outside of the bag.
For Straps Webbing Straps - cut two straps 10" long. Seal ends of straps either with heat or a seam finish such as zig zag. Self Cloth Straps - Cut 2 pieces of fabric 2 ½" by 11". Fold under by ½" on each 2 ½" edge. Fold under ½" on both 11" edges. Fold strip in half Matching 11" edges. Press and top stitch all sides of the strap ¼" from the edge. Repeat for second strap. To attach the straps - Line up the hemmed edge of the bag with the edge of the straps,on the outside of the bag and with the marks that are 2 ½" from the seam. Stitch. Turn bag right sides out and press.
Tips Double stitch the seams, on the seam allowances by stitching ¼" from the original seam.
A Reupholstered chair in Persimmon Orange, just because you can.
The spring is not only a time of renewal and change, it is also a time for us as humans to engage in the conditioned and socialized pattern of house cleaning. Thought it seems we are not the only ones who participate in this sometimes rewarding, sometimes saddening practice. Squirrels, birds and even bears partake in a similar attempt to revise and renew.
We clean out closets, give away old clothes and upgrade outdated furnishings and appliances. Carelessly, we sometimes throw out perfectly good sofas and chairs that seemed to have gotten caught in a time capsule and ended up in our living space, not realizing its true potential. What was fashionably stylish in the 70’s can often times be again, with a simple change in the fabric. Re-upholstering our favorite chairs and sofas can bring new life and energy to a room. Re-upholstering with a rich and vibrant color like Persimmon Orange can add spice to that new life and an energy that speaks to your youthful soul like no other color.
When deciding on how much of that ultra suede to buy, keep in mind that the type of cushion you are covering will impact the amount of yardage used, the layout, and if a pattern is required. (Check a yardage chart for amount required here). If you are a novice, then having an experienced upholsterer check out your furniture to give you an accurate estimate of how much material you may require is best. They can also address any unforeseen work that may arise. Top off your new sofa or chair with some coordinating accent pillows, and viola! , reincarnation from the dead!
Soft and Comfy bean bag cover in Lipstick Red to spice up that room.
Sure, it’s fun enough to plop down with a good book in a regular old bean bag, but how much better it would be once it is wrapped in a soft and comfy ultra suede…..in lipstick red!
Bean bags have been around for years, but yours doesn’t have to look like it. Give your wonderful seating friend a makeover by covering that traditional cotton or vinyl material with a little red. Add some pizzazz to your plain and simple recreational room, or enhance an already funky retro colored bedroom just by changing the fabric.
Our ultra suede is not only soft, but it offers the kind of durability needed for all the ‘plops’ and ‘flops’ it will take at the end of a hard day. Get really creative by adding trim onto your suede for a truly one-of-a-kind design.
The grit and grind of life may wear off on you, but not your ultra-suede. This fabric is stain resistant and with a little help from a good suede cleaning product, spot washing offers a good-as-new look for long lasting use.
As February rolls in, so does Black History month. Americans young and old will celebrate the many contributions African-Americans past and present have brought to this country.
Reflections of their art, history and culture are reflected in almost every aspect of our society, from our infrastructures to our fashions. As, such, the J&O Family would like to take a moment to highlight some of the beautiful African fabric prints and textile designs, both modern and traditional, that are available for our fabulous customers right here at J&O
Kente Print
Africa has long been a fertile & creative source of fabric textile & design. One of the most widely known woven fabrics synonymous with the Ashanti people of Ghana, is kente. Kente cloth is a type of cotton fabric made of interwoven cloth strips. Authentic Kente was traditionally the cloth of kings, but over time, the use of this royal fabric became more widespread, becoming available across Ghana in its woven form, as well as in cotton print.
Kente is characterized by its multicolored patterns of complex designs, bright colors and geometric shapes. The sacred weft designs , called adweneasa, that are woven into each section of plain weave , are meant to convey the history, philosophy, ethics and moral values of both Ghana and African culture in general.
According to some tribes, weaving has many spiritual and mythical meanings behind it as well. One belief is that each stage of spinning and weaving thread is a symbolic analogy to human reproduction and resurrection. Therefore, the processes can only be done in daylight hours. To work at night would be to weave silence and darkness into the cloth.
The color of the woven fabric can also have some spiritual meaning as well. In one tribe, a white fabric used by healing women, is thought to be linked to water spirits. Although there are many meanings to the designs on the cloth, very few are directly represented on the cloth itself.
Mudcloth Mudcloth is a hand-woven and hand-painted traditional textile craft originating in the Sahel region on West Africa. It is called "mudcloth" because of the use of natural pigments used in the painting process.
Traditional looms are used to weave thin strips of fabric that are then sewn together to create one large piece of cloth. The cloth is then ready to be dyed and painted. Various pigments are made from infusions of local leaves, roots, bark, and of course, mud. The plain cotton cloth is first soaked in an infusion of Acacia leaves to create the characteristic yellow background color. Then a variety of other natural dyes are used to paint on the cloth. The white tones are produced by using local soap to wash away the previous colors and expose the natural cotton underneath. Traditionally, mudcloth is decorated with many geometric designs, and rich earth-toned colors.
Within the last decade, we have seen the mix of modern influence on the traditional with the dying of the cloth in colors such as purple, pink, green and gold. This vibrant array offers a more diverse selection for our designers and artists, while maintaining the value and authenticity of the art of mudcloth itself. Past down from generations before, artisans of Western Africa have been producing this beautiful fabric for hundreds of years, and will continue to do so for years to come.
At J&O we carry an exotic-looking upholstery fabric reminiscent of this African mudcloth design. This is a wonderful upholstery that will lend an ethnic flavor to your home.
Check out our full selection of African Fabrics here!
Batik Batik is a wax resist process that is thousands of years old. Practiced in parts of Africa and the South Pacific, this textile art consists of the application of layers of wax and thickened dye applied to white cloths to create a desired design.
There are two kinds of batiks, hand drawn batiks and stamped batiks. Hand drawn batik designs are drawn or painted in beeswax by hand. A tool called a canting is used to apply the wax. The canting consists of a small copper cup with a spout through which melted wax can flow out onto the cloth. The cup is mounted on a wooden or rattan handle. The size of the spout and the number of spouts may vary for different functions. The design is drawn on the cotton fabric with a pencil. The cloth is tacked onto a wooden frame. Then taking the canting tool, the artist dips into the melted wax and begins applying it to the cloth. Once they have outlined the design, they pour on the first dye. Then the artist applies the second coat of wax, painting with wax the areas to be saved. They start with the lightest colors working toward the darkest colors waxing the front and back and the front again for each new dye color used. When they are finished with this process, they put the fabric in boiling water and melt the wax off.
In Ghana, the designs are created from hand cut stamps made from rubber, foam or wood. The utilization of traditional Adinkra symbols and popular prints that date back to the Akan culture create beautiful one of a kind patterns that are widely used and sought after still today. Various batik arts can be found on garments, home furnishings and accent pieces, as well as in bedding and wall tapestry.
Today, batik arts are often seen on the streets of America. They can be found on unisex garments, home furnishings and accent pieces, as well as in bedding and wall tapestry. The old patterns are being replaced by imaginative designs of all sorts, and batik is now made into many different kinds of beautiful clothing and decorative household items.The trend today is to decorate the fabric in whatever way the artist wants. Some have even incorporated the art of tye & dye for an extra special affect.
Traditionally the main ingredient used in indigo dying is dried balls of crushed leaves from indigo bearing plants and ash. The cloth is dipped repeatedly in the blue fermented dye, exposed briefly to the air, and then reimmersed. The number of dippings and the strength and freshness of the dye determines the intensity of the resulting color.
After the dyed cloth is dried, it is customary to beat the fabric repeatedly with wooden beaters. This process presses the fabric and creates a shiny glaze. Each print is as different and as creative as the last. Whether created on light weight cotton or heavy, napped cotton, the process is the same. The look …beautifully unique.
African Waxed Prints
Wax printing has been a tradition in Ghana, West African for decades. To this day, these beautifully depicted and intricately designed fabrics are considered prestigious and hold a high social value in some circles. The most popular designs are often named after a particular event, significant animal or aspect of nature, or cultural symbol. An example would be Gyne Nyme, in which the design references the Adinkra symbol representing the Omnipotence of God. Wearing this cloth acts as a cloak of protection and respect for the Creator of man.
Artistically symbolic and uniquely designed on 100% cotton, waxed print cloths play an important role in daily life and have significant communicative value; indicating status or wealth and conveying messages as a means of non-verbal expression.
Traditional African textiles and dress have always carried symbolisms, and as a result, have become powerful vehicles for mass communication, ceremonial events, political stances, and social purposes as well. An example is a cloth featuring the proverb " Weni behu naaso w'ano enntumin nnka" ("Your eyes can see, but your mouth can not say"), which means that not all issues are suitable for public discussion.
They are worn by men, women and children alike. As the fabric has made its way into the mainstream market, it has become more common to see them used in lifestyle pieces, making them a cultural, yet fashionably stylish fabric as well.
Vibrant in color with a soft suttle shine, waxed African prints are ideal for all manner of creative textile projects. They can be seen in crafts, house decor, bedding and home accent pieces and accessories. Some are printed with a metallic accent for a more elegant look and feel.
Celebrate Black History Month all year long by bringing a little bit of African-American culture home for your next craft project today. With our African print fabrics you can go from Mt. Kilimanjaro to the Great Pyramids of Egypt in the comfort of your own home!
Find out more about the Golden Fawohodies African print here!
Find out more about the Dweni Ni MMen African print here!
Check out our full selection of African Wax & Metallic Fabrics here!
Many of you who visit us and purchase our fabulous fabrics, are seamstresses and crafters yourself. Whether you are male or female, young or old, an expert or a novice, most likely after your project is complete, you are left with pieces of material too large to throw away, and too small to make anything with…… until now.
The J&O Family has put together a small list of neat craft ideas for your cotton novelty, dress, upholstery, decorative or tapestry fabrics that will awaken the artist in all of you. Birthdays, holidays and home / garment décor will never be the same once these crafty ideas are manifested by your own unique hands.
Book covers
Photo albums, scrap books, baby books, even grandma’s secret recipe book could all use a facelift over time. Customize it for that special someone or even just for yourself. A half a yard is all you need for a nice sized cover. Select from our multiple novelty fabric categories, even mix and match for that perfect reflection of you.
One of the easiest and most popular craft ideas for scrap fabrics is a quilt. With a little needle and thread, you can customize a truly unique quilt for family, friends or loved ones. If you have a child who loves spider man, pokey man, baseball, horses and the color blue, search your scrap pile a little deeper to see what you can find. Or maybe you have a companion who you met in the winter in Paris and you went on a date and had a wonderful pasta plate that both of you enjoyed and later he gave you red roses and a kiss… and maybe you have fabrics lying around that could symbolize each of these moments in time. Imagine what a thoughtful and sentimental gift that would make. Just from scraps of fabric.
Simple or intricate, small or large, quilts can be a great way to say “you’re special” and free up some of that closet space for more important things in the meantime. Cut your fabric scraps into the standard 4” squares, or create your own unique look.
Sachets are small bags usually made of fabric or mesh material with a draw-string closure. They are traditionally used for holding potpourri, but you can create one to hold your jewelry, precious stones or coins, incense or even gift items. With those small fabric scraps, you can create several and personalize them for family and friends. Even use them to hold spices or teas in your pantry. Our cotton knits, sheers and food themed novelty prints are great fabrics for such a project. And the looser materials would allow for the scents to come through. A sheer chiffon or netted fabric will allow you to see what’s inside as well.
For those of you who have children, fashionable custom made attire for that Barbie, Dora or GI Joe doll can be made from those camo’s and silks. Create great fatigues or beautiful evening gowns for your little one’s fantasy play. Even let them design the outfits themselves. Make play time an opportunity to learn and share with one another. Even something as simple as a skirt or vest is enough to spark the creative juices in their little minds and give them a taste of what they can fashion with a little imagination and their two little hands.
If you want to make a little money with your creative talents, create to sell. For instance, Barbie is a fashion icon and she has been around for a long time, her miniture wardrobe is stylish and hip and just keeps growing season after season. Her fan base consists of young and old collectors and admirers alike, who love to dress her. In fact, there are shows throughout the nation that are dedicated to dolls in general. Creating unique ensembles out of your fashionable fabric scraps for them to model could prove quite lucrative & fun.
The last fabric scrap craft gem the J&O Family has to share with you is the Applejack Hat. This hat is constructed out of anywhere from 6 -8 triangular shaped fabric pieces and a fabric band with elastic running through it. Create unique hats for your family and friends both young and old. Personalize by using fabrics, prints and colors that hold some meaning or sentiment for the receiver. You can use fleeces, denims and wools with a light lining in it during the cooler months, or colorful cotton solids, novelty prints and lightweight denims for fun wear in the warmer months.
So don’t be so quick to throw those year old red satins, embroidered tapestry or $25/yard designer prints in the garbage. And please don’t let your pile grow taller than you before you put that good scrap fabric to use. With a little help from the J&O Family, we can help make your wonderful fabric selections work magic for you, ‘til the very last thread.
When we think about fabrics, most of the time our minds don’t reach past the aesthetical aspect of the material. We think about the way a fabric looks and feels. We see its color and texture and how it falls on our bodies. We see how we can mold and shape this collection of fibers into a fabulous garment, or recreate the décor of a home into a magical oasis. But how much thought do we give to its beginnings and the many qualities that make these fabrics the wonderfully warm, lightweight, form fitting, washable, durable and absorbent materials that they have portrayed themselves to be?
Well, I took a little time to do just that. And I came up with a few inventions in the fabric world that stood out as some of the coolest thus far.
Here is my list of the Top 10 Coolest Fabric Inventions and a brief explanation why. Maybe you have your own list of fabulous fabrics to share with our viewers too. If so, we’d love to hear from you.
1. Linen Blends
I love linen. I love the look & feel of this natural fabric, as well as its durability and breathability. But like most of us, I could do without all the wrinkles and dry cleaning bills it creates. It seems it can’t always be machine washed & dried without shrinking. But with the blends, the linen is strengthened, it’s washable, more wrinkle resistant, and carries a nicer drape. All without sacrificing the very aesthetics that attracted it to me in the first place.
With the linen blends I don't have to worry about how my outfit will look at the end of the day, or if I am packing for a trip, I can throw one or two versitile pieces in my suitcase and just do a light touch up with the iron before I step out for the night.
2. Cotton Gauze
There is no better fabric for staying cute and cool in the hot summer sun than cotton gauze. This natural & breathable fabric offers a lightweight look, feel and coverage. Because it is essentially cotton, it dries quickly, holds dyes with ease and makes great garments, drapery and lounge wear. These characteristics are appealing when designing carefree garments for a lifestyle that embraces daily living in warm climates.
Poly fleece goes by many different names: polar fleece & winter fleece to name two. Basically it is a man-made, 100% polyester fiber material. It’s been around for some time and it is one of the great inventions for warm winter coverage. Fleece is soft & comfortable, retains heat well, and has an excellent weight-to-insulation ratio, making it light enough for carrying, yet warm enough for cold conditions. The polyester material of fleece helps to pull moisture away and keep you dry at the same time. It also dries quickly and still insulates when wet.
We usually find this material in our coats, slippers, winter hats & gloves. The fabric makes great throws and if it is a top shelf fleece, it can easily be thrown in the wash for good-as-new use time after time. I love that I can snuggle myself up in this wonderful fabric for a warm and restful sleep on those cold winter nights.
I grouped this category together because I love the idea of using naturally occuring, raw materials given to us by mother nature and utilizing it for garmenting our bodies and homes.
The fact that nature-made fibers are more harmonious with our bodies appeals to me on many different levels. Think about it. Wouldn't you want a fabric draped on you or your children to be breathable like your skin, void of synthetics and chemicals. And have that same fabric allow for a fashionable look and feel as well. Is there any question why this would be on my Top 10 List? Cool.
5. Spandex
Spandex was invented in 1959 by Du Pont, and when it hit the fashion market in the 80’s, it hit with a storm. An elastic type fiber that could be stretched many times its length and then spring back to its original length without losing its shape. A material that could hold you in in all the right places, and is more resistant to washing, perspiration and heat than latex. This was the miracle material for full figured women & athletes abound. And it’s still used and sought after today. It is one of the main materials used in foundation garments and hosiery as well.
6. Wool
Wool is a natural material, which is always appealing to me, and can vary from a thick and nappy texture to a soft and lightweight one. Wool will not only return to its original position after being stretched or creased, it will absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp. Its unique properties allow shaping and tailoring, making wool the most popular fabric for tailoring fine garments. It is also dirt resistant, flame resistant, and in many weaves, resists wear and tearing. I love the idea of being able to use what mother nature gave us, to create garments and goods to garnish our bodies and homes. View our wool fabrics.
Where can you find a fabric that tells a story or holds such symbolism as with African printed fabrics. Whether it be on mudcloth, ashoke, kente, kuba cloth or cotton, the uniqueness and creativity is the same. Often times the fabrics were woven & designed by hand, using natural materials. Through ancient tradition, the color, technique and art surrounding the creation and inspiration of the fabrics had a purpose and meaning. Naturally occuring fibers & dyes are often used, offering a harmonious union between flesh and fabric. History continues into the present, and culture continues to be expressed this way. Colorful and lively patterns and prints are not only found in traditional attire, but also on high fashion runways, specialty boutiques and garnishing home interiors furnishings as well.
8. Dorlastan
Dorlastan is the spandex fiber produced by Bayer Inc. It is lightweight and soft, but stronger and more durable than rubber. Dorlastan can be stretched over 500% repeatedly without breaking, and still recover its original length. It provides lightweight freedom of movement in mens, womens and childrens apparel. It’s used in athletic apparel, bathing suits, foundation garments, tights, surgical hose and slacks.
This is a fairly new but widely used material. It’s really cool because it can stretch to such a degree and just bounce back to its original size while still offering a comfortable fit and feel. As a designer and seamstress, this characteristic is appealing when selecting fabric to make one-size fits-all garments and accessories.
Suede cloth is a synthetic made from 100% polyester. It is very resilient, quick drying, resistant to biological damage such as mold and mildew, easy to wash, and able to hold forms well. Suede cloth is a great imitation fabric. It’s also a fun fabric to play with when designing because it allows you to create garments and accessories that have the look and feel of suede, without the animal bi-products.
Like suede cloth, textured vinyl fabric is also a synthetic material. It is pliable, durable and easy to maintain. It is a great imitation fabric that has the look and feel of leather without the animal bi-product. This is another fun fabric to play with when designing garments and accessories for those who are looking for a modern or traditional leathered look. I listed this as one of my top 10 coolest fabrics simply because of the ingenuity of the designer to create a material that mimics actual leather asthetically so well.
So there you have it. My Top 10 Coolest Fabric Inventions. I am sure once you take a look at all we have to offer here at J&O, you'll have a list of your own that is twice as long. With new textiles created everyday, J&O will be your one stop fabric shop for all the latest materials into the next century.
Whether you’re a woman, have children, or are a participant in this thing called life, inevitably you will meet a blood stain that you want removed. And believe it or not, blood can come out. So before you panic, let J&O give you the band-aid that can heal it.
The trick to getting the stain out depends on how much blood there is. Never use hot water on blood stains, because the heat will set the blood and make it impossible to remove. Treat the stain with a cold water and table salt mixture (1 qt water / 2 tspn salt). Rinse and blot with a towel.
Hydrogen peroxide can be used very effectively for the removal of blood stains also. Pour the hydrogen peroxide onto the area of the blood stain and allow it to foam for a few minutes before wiping it off and laundering normally. Older blood stains may require repeated applications of hydrogen peroxide.
Candle Wax
Candle wax can be found in the most interesting of places. And while the tips listed next can be applied to the wax that may have solidified on your body from last night’s wild adventure, we at J&O recommend them for fabric only.
The first step is to gently scrape away the surface wax with a spatula or a dull knife. Now you have two options: you can either spot clean with a water-free cleaning solvent or you can get creative. Getting creative involves covering the spot with several layers of paper towels and applying a warm iron. This should heat the wax and make it easy to scrape off.
The same method applies if you want to remove wax from your carpet. After you scrape up the hardened waxed and vacuum the left over debris. Next place a clean cloth, paper bag or paper towel over the wax. Run a warm iron over the cloth until the wax melts. A hot hair dryer can also be used. Once the wax is melted, it should adhere to the cloth. Lift the cloth and the wax should lift with it.
Be careful to note; anytime you apply heat to a stain, it causes the stain to lock into the fibers. It's for this reason you should use a warm iron only. You also don't want to use newspaper or any kind of paper with words or pictures on it unless you want the image to be transferred to your carpet. If you are left with a little reminder of your escapade, use a carpet spot cleaner. Just follow the instructions on the label for the best results.
Chewing Gum Gum is great while it has the flavor. But it’s not so great when little Bobby decides he’s bored with it and wants to hold a wad of it for safe keeping in the pockets of his newly bought jeans. Lucky for you, J&O has provided this guide to offer relief from the tensions of parenthood. All you have to do is harden the gum with ice and then use a dull knife to remove it. If some still remains, spray with an aerosol pretreatment product and let stand for 5 minutes then throw in the laundry. This same tactic works on carpeting and upholstery as well.
Chocolate and Coffee
Chocolate on your satin sheets. Coffee on his business suit. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out what happened in the Smiths’ home last night. Nor does it take one to figure out how to clean the stains up from this mess. Chocolate and coffee stains are easy to remove from your fabric; much easier than the memory of him in pink leather bondage is from your mind. Just dampen a sponge with lukewarm water and blot the stain. If it’s a really tough stain, re-launder with fabric safe bleach.
Ink and Markers
With ink you generally need to act fast to have a chance. Flipping cushions over to hide stains is often a quick and easy solution, but, out of sight, out of mind, until you get an ink mark on the good side. So before you start flipping and rotating, try using rubbing alcohol to lift the stain. If alcohol is not your thing, you could use a dry cleaning solvent like Carbona, Goddard’s or Energine. These products are toxic so read label carefully before use.
Pencil
Little Hannah is so excited to show you how she can spell her name. The problem is, she forgot to capitalize the H, and to use the paper you gave her instead of the white linen tablecloth on your dining room table. No problem. Just have her use the eraser on her pencil to remove what excess lead she can. Watch her to be careful not to damage the fabric in the process. Then kindly let her watch as you spray the stain with a pretreatment product. Rinse or leave on as the label suggests, then launder. If Hannah has a habit, it might not be a bad idea to invest in a commercial pencil mark remover from an art supply store as backup.
Crayon
“What a pretty rainbow Little Stevie. And you used EVERY color in your box! Too bad we can’t hang your fathers favorite T-shirt up on the fridge for him to see.” Instead you will have to take a snapshot of this wonderful masterpiece and quickly clean up the remains before father comes home.
First things first, scrape the excess crayon with the dull edge of a butter knife. Wash the shirt in hot water with soap and ½ cup baking soda for 10 min. If the stain is stubborn, do it a second time. Wash for 5 minutes and rinse. To remove any remaining color, use bleach or color remover that is safe for the fabric. Then pick up a box of washable crayons for Little Stevie’s future art projects.
Vomit/ Urine
What happens when you mix 12 slices of pizza with all the toppings, 1 hour of straight vodka shots and a birthday you will never forget?....Loss of control of your faculties and a cleanup job the next morning with a hangover you could do without! But J&O can help with that.
Step one, scrape off whatever you can. Fresh protein stains can often be removed just by soaking the soiled clothing or fabric in cold water before washing (hot water can set the protein causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stain more difficult to remove).
Soak in cold water using a detergent or enzyme presoak product for about 30 minutes. Launder in warm water, rinse and inspect. If remnants of the pizza still remain, soak an additional 30 minutes then rewash. Never put a stained fabric in a dryer. The heat from the dryer can set the stain.
Water Stains
Water stains on washable fabrics should come out during normal laundering. For dry-cleanable draperies, consult a professional cleaner. Water marks on drapes are water soluble and can‘t be removed by dry-cleaning solvents.
Wine and Alcohol
Maybe you got a little crazy at last night’s party. Maybe you got caught in another lie by your wife again. Either way, getting that stain out is the easy part, getting her to forgive you may take some time.
First, spot clean or soak the fabric in hot water with a water-based shampoo or foam upholstery cleaner containing enzymes . Do not use soap or detergents containing natural soap since soap could make the stain permanent or more difficult to remove. To remove tough set in stains, soak for 30 minutes. You might have to use fabric safe bleach. Always check for the colorfastness first by pre-testing a sample section of the material.
Fruit / Fruit Juices
Follow the same directions for Wine / Alcohol. Note that if all the sugars are not removed from the material, a brown stain will appear when the fabric is heated in the dryer or is ironed. This is due to the sugars from the fruit caramelizing.
For cherry and blueberry stains, follow the following steps. Soak the fabric in an all-fabric powdered bleach. If the stain remains and the garment is colorfast, soak the entire garment or fabric in a diluted solution of liquid chlorine bleach and water. Caution: Chlorine bleach may change the color of the garment or cause irreversible damage. Therefore, it is important to check for color fastness before using. If the stain does not come out within 15 minutes of bleaching, it can’t be removed by bleaching, and any further exposure to bleach will weaken the fabric.
Lipstick Lipstick on your collar again? Need a quick fix-him-up so the other girlfriend won’t see? J&O can help you with that, but maybe not the naughty boy in you. So here are a couple of quick tips.
Rubbing alcohol can help to remove lipstick. Put a small amount on your clothing and blot until the stain has vanished. This may need to be repeated several times until the stain is gone. “Rinse” the fabric by blotting with cool water.
Petroleum jelly can be massaged into the stain until it disappears. If a greasy stain is left behind, sprinkle on some baking soda to absorb and launder as usual.
Hair spray can be used to remove lipstick stains as well. Spray a bit on and blot with a damp cloth. Repeat the process until the stain is lifted and launder as usual.
With today’s smudge and water proof lipsticks, you may have a challenge on your hands. If the stain remains and all else has failed and the garment is colorfast, soak the fabric in a diluted solution of liquid chlorine bleach and water. Caution: Chlorine bleaching may change the color of the garment or cause irreversible damage. Therefore, it is important to check for color fastness before using. If the stain doesn’t come out within 15 minutes of bleaching, it can’t be removed by bleaching, and any further exposure to bleach will weaken the fabric.
Make-up (water based)
Hair,…tidy. Outfit…perfect. Makeup ….flawless. You’re on your way out the door for your big date and take one last look in the mirror for approval only to find a carmel colored ring of foundation around the collar of your new Ralph Lauren blouse. What on Earth!
For a quick fix, try a little makeup remover to get the makeup off your clothing. Check the ingredients first, however, to make sure the cleaning agents are compatible with the fabric. In most cases, you can dab a little of the makeup remover directly onto the fabric and rub a bit and the stain should lift right off. Launder as usual.
If you decide to just change the shirt for another, then launder with detergent in hottest water safe for the fabric when the date is over. Don’t use soap (bar, flake, or detergents containing natural soap), since soap could make stain permanent or at least more difficult to remove. Soak tough stains for 30 minutes in 1 quart of warm water and 1 teaspoon of enzyme presoak product. To remove old or set stains may require washing with bleach that is safe for the fabric. Always check for colorfastness first.
For future, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If you’re going to use makeup, use a stocking mask or satin scarf around your face when dressing once the makeup has been applied.
Nail Polish
I don’t know too many women who have had the full success of painting their nails without some mishap from time to time. So for those of us who are “prone” to the occasional perfectly pink on the couch cushion, sky blue on the bed sheet or flaming red on the tweed pant leg, here are some helpful removal tips.
It is important to catch the nail polish stain as early as possible to avoid drying and setting. Test the fabric or carpet with acetone in an inconspicuous area for colorfastness . If the carpet or fabric is not colorfast, then you have to decide which is worse, the sunset orange nail color or a faded spot on your garment or carpet.
The product that is most recommended to remove nail polish is a simple non-oily or acetone nail polish remover. Although acetone nail polish remover can be very harsh to fabrics, most will withstand a spot treatment. Never use it on acetate, triacetate or modacrylic, as they will dissolve. Take these fabrics to the dry cleaner instead.
Another option is to apply the nail polish remover to the back of the stain while laying the fabric on white absorbent towels. Rinse and launder.
Deodorant
How self conscious do you feel when being selected to make a power point presentation in front of your business peers, only to realize moments before hitting the stage, that the new deodorant you tried has left stains on your newly bought, crisply ironed black Sean John dress shirt? Unfortunately there is no quick fix we can offer for that most awkward moment in your life, but we can offer a suggestion that might save you some embarrassment …..put on your suit jacket no matter how hot!
Deodorant stains can be embarrassing. Removing deodorant stains from clothing can take a lot of work . For this stain, we have old wives tales mixed in with new age tips to help remove them. Try them all if the material is not too fragile or requires dry cleaning.
The first thing you want to do is to treat the stain as soon as possible. This is because deodorant stains will set, and one has a better chance of removing them sooner than later.
One method is to take a pair of nylons and rub the stains. This is a safe method to try on just about any fabric, since it will not harm the fabric. Another option is to wash the garment inside out. Some have said that rubbing deodorant stains with a past made from baking soda, or using whitening toothpaste and allowing the fabric to sit overnight works.
Applying white vinegar to the deodorant stains and allowing the garment to sit overnight in a vinegar and water solution has been said to work wonders. Just make sure not to try the vinegar and baking soda methods together. We don’t want any explosive chemical reactions.
There are a plethora of other suggestions, and one may have to experiment with several methods before finding the ideal technique for removing deodorant stains. The old saying “ an ounce of medicine is worth a pound of cure” might be worth the review. To avoid stains in the future, look for antiperspirants or deodorants that are advertised as non-staining.
Baby Stains: Formula / Poop
It never ceases to amaze me, the timing of a baby and his spit up …or even a baby and his poop. It seems the moment you dress him in his cute organic hemp 3pc outfit and put on a fresh new cotton cloth pamper, he decides that it is the perfect moment to regurgitate his morning formula and unload what seems like 2 days worth of banana and sweet potato, all with a smile on his face.
It’s at these times that we wish we could program these little people to our busy schedule and click a button that would have a robotic house maid come whisk the soiled garments away for a super speedy cleaning and redress. But until that day comes, here are some simple directions for removing those inevitable baby stains.
First, scrape or wipe off what you can. Fresh protein stains can often be removed by just soaking in cold water before washing. Soak in cold water using a detergent or enzyme presoak product for about 30 minutes. Soak old stains for at least several hours. If hot water is used first, it can cook the protein, causing coagulation between the fibers in the yarns of the fabric, making the stain more difficult to remove. Launder in warm water, rinse, and inspect.
If stain remains, soak an additional 30 minutes, then rewash. (Never put a stained fabric in a dryer. The heat from the dryer can set the stain.) If color stain remains, launder using chlorine bleach if safe for the fabric, or with all fabric bleach. However, if bleach is used, rewash to be sure all bleach has been removed because baby's skin is sensitive.
According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, adding one cup of white vinegar to each laundry load during the rinse cycle breaks down uric acid and soapy residue, leaving baby clothes and diapers soft and fresh.
Yellowing and Graying
Have you ever had those socks that no matter how much you wash them, they just never seem to let go of their grey ‘dingy’ look? Or how about that white Donna Karen top you bought last summer that’s been sitting in your closet waiting to be selected to adorn you for your trip to Hawaii, only to find yellow stains precariously placed throughout the material. Even better, the white gauze fabric you placed on your shelf 3 years ago that now you are ready to create into a masterful window dressing, but, oh no...yellow stains again! There are several reasons why fabrics gray, yellow, and become dingy, including not using the right amount of detergent (i.e., using too much or too little detergent), insufficient rinsing, and/or the wash water temperature is too low.
Some fabrics which are white or pastel colored contain optical brighteners or fluorescent whitening agents (FWAs) which were applied during manufacturing. These agents can decompose when exposed to light and atmospheric conditions, or prolonged storage conditions. In some cases the entire fabric becomes dingy or develops a yellow cast. In other cases the yellowing develops only where exposed to light. The FWAs can also be damaged by the use of chlorine bleach. Unfortunately, once the FWAs are damaged, the whitening agents can't be reapplied to the fabric. To revitalize your fashionable garments and designer linens, J&O has provided the following tips:
Wash with a permanent press cycle in hot water, use a cool-down rinse on permanent press and use one cup of water conditioner instead of detergent. If the discoloration remains, either repeat this procedure or wash with the correct amount of detergent.
If the fabric is white, consider specialty products available in grocery or drug stores, such as Rit's "Whitener and Brightener" to whiten the fabric. Always read the instructions on the product label and check for colorfastness first. Separate and wash your whites separate from colors. And, don't put heavily soil garments with lightly soiled items.
Mildew
Mold and mildew can wreck havoc on house and home, let alone on you or your families’ respiratory systems! It is the culprit that is often times responsible for that damp smell and itchy eyes. But have no fear, here are some helpful tips for getting rid of that pesky attacker.
Mildew is a growing organism that must have warmth, darkness, and moisture to survive. Mildew actually eats cellulosic fiber and can also attack manufactured fibers, causing permanent damage and weakening of fibers and fabrics. To treat mildew, first carefully brush or shake off mildewed area. Pre-treat the stains by rubbing the areas with a heavy-duty liquid detergent. Then launder in the hottest water safe for the fabric, using bleach safe for fabric. (Chlorine bleach is best if OK for the fabric.) Always check for colorfastness before using bleach. Let item dry in the sun.
Badly mildewed fabric may be damaged beyond repair. Old stains may respond to flushing with dry cleaning fluid, i.e., Carbona, Energine, Goddard's (Carefully read and follow the instructions on the product label.
Odors There are odors created from eating too many beans and onions, or using too little deodorant . For those bodily releases, we can only recommend use of the proper refreshing agents. For the odors that linger on the garment fabrics, drapes, carpeting and upholstery, we offer the following tips for a cleaner, fresher scent .
Most odors should be removed by normal laundering. For stubborn odors, place calcium carbonate crystals, activated charcoal, or soda in an open container and store with clothes in the closet, or sprinkle the clothes with baking soda, let stand, and then vacuum. Although a little crazy, for really persistent odors, try placing a thin layer of kitty litter on the clothing and let it stay for a couple of days. Then vacuum.
Caution: vacuum it up before little Spotty gets to it. We wouldn’t want your favorite feline getting tossed out with the ruined silk dress all on a matter of misunderstanding (smile).
Rust
It’s spring cleaning time again. Time to get rid of the old, the out-dated, the no-longer-stylish. But before you give up on those pink and yellow retro designed drapes dressing your double hung windows in the1970’s themed meditation room, think again. Those rust stains left from the once fashionable large brass rings can come out with a some helpful tips from your J&O Fabric family.
Though removing rust stains can be difficult, it is not impossible. Unfortunately, rust stains can’t be removed in normal laundering. Nor can you use chlorine bleach. Chlorine bleach will only make the stains permanent.
Small stains may be removed with a few drops of a commercial rust remover, or by repeated applications of lemon juice and salt on the stain. Do not let dry between applications. Rinse thoroughly and launder with a liquid laundry detergent and oxygen bleach, following directions. If safe for fabric, boil in solution of 4 teaspoons of cream of tartar per pint of water. Rinse thoroughly.
Severe rust staining may be removed with a commercial rust remover, such as RoVer or Whink. Follow package instructions. But rust removers that contain hydrofluoric acid are extremely toxic, can burn the skin, and will damage the porcelain finish on appliances and sinks, so be mindful where you soak your drapes or fabric.
Butter / Oil / Mayo
They say the sign of a passionate cook is the amount of grease stains on her apron and dishes in her sink. Or is that the sign of a woman with two left hands? Either way, the sign of wise person is she who follows these tips to bring her beautiful handmade apron back to new.
Treat light stains with a pretreatment spray stain remover and wait a couple minutes for it to penetrate. Rub with a heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent. Launder. If color stain remains, launder with chlorine bleach if safe for the fabric, or use an all-fabric bleach. Always test for colorfastness before using bleach. Place heavy stains face down on clean paper towels. Apply dry cleaning fluid to the back of stain. Replace towels frequently. Let air dry, rinse, then launder on hot setting.
Grease / Hand lotion / Oiled based Make-up
The combination of these three elements sounds like any parent’s nightmare that has a teenage daughter who spends time in front of her vanity. So let us offer a few removal tips. Saturate light stains with a pretreatment spray stain remover and wait several minutes for it to penetrate. Rub with a heavy-duty liquid laundry detergent. Launder. If color stain remains, launder with chlorine bleach if safe for the fabric, or use an all-fabric bleach. Always test for colorfastness before using bleach.
Place heavy stains face down on folded paper towels. Apply dry cleaning fluid to the back of stain. Replace towels as needed. Let air dry. Rinse, and launder in hot water.
Tomato Based Stains
I love pasta and spaghetti as much as the next person, but not when it’s all over my shirt or tablecloth. So for all those who twisted one too many times around the fork or tried to imitate the romantic Italian dinner eat & kiss scene between the two canines in Lady and the Tramp, here are some tips for removing that ever feared sauce stain.
First, saturate the area with pretreatment laundry stain remover. Wait a couple of minutes for the product to penetrate the stain. For stubborn stains, rub with heavy-duty liquid detergent. Launder immediately. If color stain remains, soak the entire garment in a dilute solution of all-fabric powered bleach. Be aware that all the colors may lighten.
If the stain persists, and the garment is white or colorfast, soak in a dilute solution of liquid chlorine bleach and water. But, be sure to read the garment label regarding the use of bleach. Bleach can damage some dyes and prints, and bleaching damage is irreversible. And, if the stain is not removed in 15 minutes, it cannot be removed by bleaching and further bleaching will only weaken the fabric.
Caution: Since bleaches can alter the color of a fabric as well as the stain, bleach the whole garment and do not try to bleach just the spot (again, be sure bleaching is permitted). For heavy stains, apply dry-cleaning fluid to back of stain over absorbent white paper towels. (Check product label for instructions and follow carefully.) Let dry; rinse. Proceed as above.
If you've already destroyed some of your favorite material due to stains you tried too hard to remove, check out our following fabric catagories for some of our latest and greatest selections. If you are just looking to add to your already fabulous collection, take a moment to do some overdue shopping just for you!
*Note* The following information is intended to aid our customers in their fabric projects. These suggestions are based on manufacturer’s recommendations and customer insights. The following statements are not intended to be understood as unequivocal or applicable to every circumstance. Therefore, J&O Fabrics is not responsible for the results of the implementation of these cleaning methods Some stains are easier to get out then others. The amount of stain, how long it’s been sitting there and the type of fabric it is sitting on will all play into the degree of difficulty in getting it out. Remember, if the fabric good has a care label attached; follow the instructions and warnings provided. But if not, try these helpful tips. If all else fails, pay the extra money to have it remo
The Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards, aka SAG Awards, may be embraced as one of the most prestigious award ceremonies in the entertainment industry, an opportunity for actors and actresses alike to be honored and acknowledged by their own peers on their respective crafts.
Blue seemed to be a popular color this year, gracing such notable actresses as Kyra Sedgwick and newcomer Niki Blonsky. Kyra adorned cobalt colored silk crepe with chantilly lace, while Niki embraced her more fluid side in royal blue taffeta.
Blue seemed to be a popular color this year, gracing such notable actresses as Kyra Sedgwick and newcomer Niki Blonsky. Kyra adorned cobalt colored silk crepe with chantilly lace, while Niki embraced her more fluid side in royal blue taffeta.
It never ceases to amaze me the way we bring life to this amazing palate of beautiful color and fabric…or is it the other way around? 
It was right there by the antique stove that you earned your first burn scar, when you went running through the kitchen top speed and accidentally knocked over a pot of boiling water waiting for the fresh vegetables she picked and prepared for her tasty soup. 
Check out our 
Within the last decade, we have seen the mix of modern influence on the traditional with the dying of the cloth in colors such as purple, pink, green and gold. This vibrant array offers a more diverse selection for our designers and artists, while maintaining the value and authenticity of the art of mudcloth itself. Past down from generations before, artisans of Western Africa have been producing this beautiful fabric for hundreds of years, and will continue to do so for years to come.
Find out more about the Golden Fawohodies African print 
1. Linen Blends 
