Croft Mill

Satin Fabric Guide by Croft Mill

There’s something about satin that instantly elevates a garment. With its smooth surface, signature sheen and fluid drape, satin fabric is the ultimate choice for creating show-stopping occasionwear, and at Croft Mill, we have a beautiful selection to choose from.

Whether you're planning a handmade dress for party season, a slinky blouse, or a statement skirt, you'll find your perfect satin in our curated collection of over 90 different satin fabrics; from liquid satins in champagne and navy to printed styles and stretch satins in every colour you can imagine.

What Is Satin Fabric?

Unlike silk (which refers to a fibre), satin refers to a type of weave. Satin weave is one of the three main types of fabric construction, alongside plain weave and twill. What makes satin unique is its smooth surface and glossy finish, a result of the way the threads float across the surface to reflect light.

Originally made from silk and exported from the Chinese port of Quanzhou (once known to European merchants as ‘Zayton’), satin is now made from a variety of fibres including polyester, acetate and viscose, giving it a more accessible price point without sacrificing style or drape.

Satins part 2

L-R:  Legacy  :  Addicted to You  :  Rossa  :  Sunset Blvd  :  Crystal Reflections 

Types of Satin Fabrics Available at Croft Mill

We stock a wide range of satin styles to suit every budget and sewing project:

  • Liquid satin – lightweight, slinky, and with incredible shine. Available in shades like green, navy, pink, champagne, and ivory.

  • Stretch satin – perfect for fitted dresses or garments that require movement.

  • Printed satin – bold florals, soft pastels, and contemporary abstract prints.

  • Satin-backed crepe – with a crepe texture on one side and a satin sheen on the other, ideal for reversible or contrast designs.

  • Luxury satins – premium qualities that feel and look like silk, perfect for extra special pieces.

Satin patterned

L-R:  Banyan  :  Bordering On  :  Kimtee  :  Suntrip  :  Striped

What Can You Make with Satin?

Thanks to its elegant appearance and fluid drape, satin is ideal for:

  • Evening dresses and gowns

  • Blouses and camisoles

  • Bias-cut skirts

  • Lingerie and nightwear

  • Bridesmaid and prom dresses

  • Special occasion garments for the festive season

Tips for Sewing with Satin Fabric

Satin can be a little tricky to work with, but these tips will help you sew with confidence:
🧷 Cut one layer at a time – Satin is slippery and shifts easily, so avoid stacking layers when cutting. Use pattern weights and a rotary cutter if possible.
🪡 Use a sharp, new needle – Satin shows every pin or needle mark, so always use a fresh fine needle and pin only within seam allowances.
💧 Avoid water when pressing – Satin can show water spots. Use a low heat setting on your iron and a pressing cloth.
✂️ Allow for fraying – Use a wider seam allowance and finish your seams neatly with a French seam or overlocker.

You’ll find the tools you need, like sharp dressmaking scissors, fine pins and specialist needles, in our haberdashery section. 

Shop Satin Fabrics Online at Croft Mill

If you're dreaming up a glamorous handmade outfit, satin is the fabric to get you there. Our collection includes everything from classic plain satin in rich jewel tones to eye-catching prints and fluid fashion satins, all carefully selected for quality and style.

✨ Browse the full satin fabric collection online at Croft Mill and let your next sewing project shine.

And if you need help picking the perfect satin, our friendly team is always happy to offer guidance.

Happy sewing!

The Croft Mill team x

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