Sewing with Wool Suiting: Fabrics, Linings & Ideas

There’s something deeply satisfying about sewing a garment that you know will stand the test of time. Whether it’s a tailored jacket, a sharp pair of trousers, or a statement coat, a well-made piece from quality wool suiting fabric becomes a wardrobe staple - something you reach for year after year. And when it’s lined with a beautiful, breathable fabric that feels just as good on the inside as it looks on the outside? Even better.

At Croft Mill, we’ve brought together a collection of wool suitings that reflect everything we love about slow fashion: considered, well-crafted and versatile. Many of these are ex-designer and woven in Italy by mills renowned for their quality and attention to detail. You’ll also find some that come from closer to home, including traditional Yorkshire mills with generations of weaving expertise behind them.

Our latest suiting collection is full of character and quality. These are mostly ex-designer wool fabrics, woven in Italy by mills known for their craftsmanship and style. You'll find a mix of classic and contemporary - bold checks, subtle textures, soft stretch weaves, and timeless shades. Shop all our Italian Wool Suitings HERE. 

There’s a range of styles and finishes in this collection, from bold checks with a heritage feel to soft wool blends with a bit of added stretch - ideal if you want both comfort and structure. If you're looking for something classic, we've got timeless navy and charcoal options that work beautifully for formal wear or everyday layering pieces. Prefer something with a bit more personality? There are more playful patterns too, perfect for sewing something that feels like your own.

L-R: Worsted Wool Flannel Tom : Viscose Acetate Lining in Beige : Theo Worsted Wool flannel twill : Viscose Acetate Lining in Sky : Blacktorn : Viscose Acetate Lining in Wine : Worsted Wool Flannel Ben

One of our favourite things about our collection is how well these fabrics lend themselves to a variety of patterns. Wool suiting doesn’t have to mean businesswear. It can be relaxed and creative too. We’ve chosen a few patterns to help you get started, including the Trapeze dress from Merchant & Mills. It’s a simple, elegant shape that really comes to life in a checked wool—it’s got just enough drape to hang well, and enough body to show off the design. With options for short sleeves, sleeveless, or 3/4 length, it’s easy to adapt to your style and the seasons.

And of course, no handmade garment is truly finished without a good lining. That little touch inside that makes you smile when you put it on. We’ve recently added some truly glorious linings to our range—including bold 100% viscose linings in brilliant colours and smooth Italian viscose–acetate blends that feel soft and breathable against the skin. These linings not only help garments last longer and feel more comfortable to wear, but they also give you a chance to add a flash of colour or personality—­especially in pieces like jackets or coats.

L-R: All In The Mind in Orange : Verdant Stripes : Guinevere : Halo : Ornate - Navy : Pia : Crests

A good lining does more than just sit quietly inside a garment. It can elevate the whole piece. We always encourage our customers to think about linings as part of the design, not just an afterthought. Whether you choose something classic or go for something bright and unexpected, it’s another way to make your garment truly your own.

Our Colour Pop Viscose Linings is a vibrant collection of 140cm wide, 100% viscose linings in a stunning spectrum of bold, summery colours. Smooth, breathable and with a gentle sheen, these linings are ideal for adding a luxurious finishing touch to your garments. They’re deadstock too, so once they’re gone, they’re gone! You can shop them all HERE. 

Everything in this new collection is limited stock, particularly the designer deadstock pieces, so if you see something you love, it’s worth acting quickly. These are the kinds of fabrics you don’t come across often, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.

If you’re unsure where to start or need help choosing the right fabric for a pattern, our team is always happy to offer guidance. Many of us sew ourselves and know how important it is to get the right match, something that looks good, feels good, and sews up just how you want it to.

Checked Wool Suiting – Classic with a Twist

Our collection of checked wool suitings includes everything from bold heritage designs to more understated patterns, all with that timeless tailored feel ideal for creating garments with structure and style. We love pairing these with the Merchant & Mills Trapeze dress. This versatile pattern works beautifully in wool, offering a modern, wearable silhouette. It comes with options for short, ¾, or sleeveless designs and features a simple button back making it a wardrobe staple you'll return to time and again.

The perfect match? The 101 Trousers sit at the waist and come with a drawstring, side pockets and a false fly. The pattern includes three versions: cropped and tapered trousers, wide straight trousers and shorts. It works perfectly with our Pure Wool Crepe.  Then we have 'Wool with Stretch' A luxurious wool with a touch of stretch, offering extra comfort and versatility. Just perfect for tailored suits, blazers, and trousers with a refined finish, find them here. 

So whether you’re planning a classic tailored suit, a playful wool dress, or a jacket with a lining that’s anything but boring, we hope this new collection inspires you to make something you’ll be proud to wear for years to come.

Take your time, find your favourite, and when you’re ready, just start stitching.

Happy sewing from all of us at Croft Mill.

ps Don't forget to share anything you make with Croft Mill fabric on our instgram WE LOVE TO SEE IT! :)