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Polyester Elastane Barca Crepe Fabric Red CU

Crepe Fabric

Crepe is prized for its subtle textured surface and elegant drape, which makes it a favourite for dresses, trousers, skirts and occasionwear. Our collection spans weights and fibres, from heavier triple crepe for structure to fluid silk and wool crepes.

For the lightest, silkiest option, see our dedicated crepe de chine collection. Order a sample to judge the weight and drape for your project.
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Crepe describes a fabric with a lightly crinkled, pebbled surface created by tightly twisted yarns or a special weave. That texture gives crepe its characteristic matte finish and lovely drape, and helps it resist creasing. Rather than one cloth, crepe is a family spanning different fibres and weights, so choosing the right one for your project matters more than the name alone.

Types of crepe in this collection

  • Triple crepe: a heavier, more structured crepe, ideal for fitted dresses, trousers and tailored pieces.
  • Smooth and double crepe: mid-weight options with good drape for dresses and skirts.
  • Wool crepe: a suiting-weight crepe with a soft, textured handle for tailoring and dresses.
  • Silk and silk-blend crepe: the most fluid and luxurious, beautiful for blouses and occasionwear.

Choosing the right crepe

Match the weight to the garment. Heavier crepes like triple crepe hold structure for fitted dresses and trousers, while lighter and silk crepes drape softly for blouses, flowing skirts and special-occasion pieces. If a pattern calls for a fabric with drape, a mid to light crepe is usually a safe choice. A sample is the surest way to judge the handle.

Sewing and pressing crepe

Finer crepes can be slippery, so cut in a single layer with pattern weights and use a fine needle. Crepe can fray, so finish the seams neatly. Press carefully with a cool to warm iron and a pressing cloth to avoid leaving a shine on the surface, and test on an offcut first. Pre-treat the fabric the way you'll care for the finished garment before cutting, following the guidance on the product page, as care varies with the fibre.

Does crepe crease easily?

One of crepe's strengths is that its textured surface helps it resist creasing better than many smooth fabrics, so garments tend to keep a tidy appearance through the day. Heavier crepes hold up especially well. Any light creasing usually drops out or presses away easily.

Is crepe fabric stretchy?

Most woven crepe has little or no stretch, though its texture and drape give it a soft, forgiving handle. Some crepes are blended with a little elastane for stretch. If you need give for a fitted style, check the fibre content on the product page before buying.

What weight of crepe do I need for a fitted dress versus a blouse?

For fitted dresses, trousers and tailored pieces, a heavier crepe such as triple crepe gives structure and holds its shape. For blouses and flowing styles, a lighter or silk crepe drapes more softly. Order a sample if you're unsure, as the weight makes a real difference to the finished garment.

Does crepe need lining?

Heavier crepes are often opaque enough to wear unlined, while lighter and paler crepes can be a little see-through and benefit from lining, especially for skirts and dresses. Lining also improves the hang and comfort. Hold a sample to the light if you're not sure.

How do I press crepe without leaving a shine?

Use a cool to warm iron with a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric, and avoid pressing too hard. Pressing on the reverse helps too. Always test on an offcut first, as the right temperature varies with the fibre, which is listed on the product page.

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