Whether you're a fashion designer, DIY sewist, or launching your first clothing line, knowing your fabrics is everything. The right material can make or break a garment — affecting how it drapes, breathes, stretches, and holds up over time. In this visual guide, we'll walk you through the most popular fabrics available at KBM Fabrics and show you exactly what you can create with each one.
1. Cotton — The Everyday Essential
Cotton is the backbone of the textile world. It's breathable, soft, easy to sew, and available in countless weights and weaves. From lightweight cotton voile and gauze to sturdy cotton twill and canvas, this natural fiber does it all.
What to make with cotton: T-shirts, button-down shirts, sundresses, tote bags, quilts, aprons, kids' clothing, and home décor items like curtains and pillow covers.
2. Linen — Effortless Summer Style
Linen is the ultimate warm-weather fabric. Made from flax fibers, it's lightweight, highly breathable, and has a beautiful natural texture that only gets better with washing. It wrinkles easily — but that's part of its relaxed, lived-in charm.
What to make with linen: Breezy summer pants, blazers, wrap dresses, napkins, tablecloths, beach cover-ups, and relaxed-fit shirts.
3. French Terry — Comfort Meets Fashion
French terry is a knit fabric with loops on one side and a smooth face on the other. It's softer and lighter than traditional fleece, making it perfect for year-round loungewear and athleisure. It has great stretch recovery and a premium hand feel that customers love.
What to make with French terry: Hoodies, joggers, crew-neck sweatshirts, pullover dresses, baby rompers, and cozy cardigans.
4. Denim — The Timeless Workhorse
Denim is one of the most iconic fabrics in fashion history. Available in everything from lightweight chambray to heavyweight selvedge, denim is durable, versatile, and always in style. At KBM Fabrics, we carry a range of denim weights and stretch options for any project.
What to make with denim: Jeans, jackets, skirts, overalls, bags, hats, and home accessories like cushion covers.
5. Jersey Knit — Stretch and Drape
Jersey knit is the go-to fabric for comfortable, body-skimming garments. It's stretchy, soft, and drapes beautifully. Available in single jersey (lighter) and double jersey (more structured), plus variations like cotton jersey, rayon jersey, and bamboo jersey.
What to make with jersey: T-shirts, maxi dresses, leggings, wrap tops, infinity scarves, baby clothes, and draped cardigans.
6. Chiffon & Georgette — Lightweight Elegance
Chiffon and georgette are sheer, lightweight fabrics with a beautiful flow. They're staples in evening wear, bridal fashion, and spring/summer collections. Chiffon has a smooth finish while georgette has a slightly crinkled texture for extra dimension.
What to make with chiffon/georgette: Evening gowns, bridesmaid dresses, blouses, layered skirts, scarves, and overlay details on structured garments.
7. Rayon Challis — The Drapey Print Favorite
Rayon challis is beloved by indie sewists and designers alike for its incredible drape, soft hand, and ability to hold vibrant prints. It's lightweight, flows beautifully, and feels almost like silk at a fraction of the cost.
What to make with rayon challis: Wrap dresses, flowy skirts, kimono robes, palazzo pants, and lightweight blouses.
8. Ponte Roma — Structured Stretch
Ponte roma (also called ponte knit) is a thick, double-knit fabric with excellent stretch recovery. It holds its shape beautifully while still being comfortable, making it the perfect bridge between casual and professional wear.
What to make with ponte: Blazers, pencil skirts, structured dresses, work pants, and figure-flattering tops.
Shop All These Fabrics at KBM Fabrics
At KBM Fabrics in the LA Fashion District, we carry all of these fabrics and more — available by the yard at wholesale and retail prices. Whether you're ordering online or visiting our store at 1732 Maple Ave, Los Angeles, our team is ready to help you find the perfect fabric for your next project.
Browse our full collection at kbmfabrics.store or call us at (213) 746-1737 to check availability. We offer fast shipping across the U.S. and special pricing for bulk orders.