Quick Answer

Sew Kind of Wonderful offers two main fabric lines: Pop Cloth, a durable cotton-poly blend ideal for curved piecing, and Vintage Cloth, a soft, pre-washed cotton with a vintage feel. This FAQ covers common questions about their care, uses, and how to choose between them.

Whether you're new to Sew Kind of Wonderful patterns or a seasoned quilter, you likely have questions about the fabrics we use and recommend. Pop Cloth and Vintage Cloth each have unique properties that affect how they handle, sew, and wear. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions we hear from our community.

Read on to learn how to care for these fabrics, which one suits your project, and tips for getting the best results with your Sew Kind of Wonderful patterns.

What is Pop Cloth and how is it different from regular quilting cotton?

Pop Cloth is a specially engineered fabric that combines the stability of cotton with the ease of synthetic fibers. It is designed to hold its shape well, resist fraying, and provide a smooth surface for precise cutting and piecing—especially important when working with curved blocks like those in many Sew Kind of Wonderful patterns. Unlike regular quilting cotton, Pop Cloth has a slight stretch that helps it ease around curves without puckering.

Another key difference is that Pop Cloth requires no pre-washing. It is colorfast and will not shrink, so you can cut and sew immediately after purchase. This saves time and eliminates the worry of fabric distortion that can occur with pre-washing traditional cottons. Many quilters also appreciate that Pop Cloth presses crisply and holds creases well, making it easier to achieve accurate seams.

  • Pop Cloth is ideal for patterns with tight curves because it resists stretching out of shape.
  • No pre-washing needed—just cut and sew.
  • Holds creases well for crisp seams.

What is Vintage Cloth and what makes it special?

Vintage Cloth is a premium cotton fabric that is pre-washed and garment-dyed to achieve a soft, lived-in feel. It has a slightly textured surface that mimics the look of vintage quilts, giving your projects an instant heirloom quality. The fabric is also brushed for extra softness, making it a joy to work with and to snuggle under.

Because Vintage Cloth is pre-washed, it is ready to use straight from the bolt. It is also less prone to fraying and fading, ensuring your finished quilt maintains its beauty over time. Many quilters choose Vintage Cloth for projects that will be handled frequently, such as baby quilts or throws, because of its gentle hand and durability.

  • Pre-washed and garment-dyed for a soft, vintage look.
  • Ready to use—no pre-washing required.
  • Great for heirloom-style quilts and everyday use.

Can I mix Pop Cloth and Vintage Cloth in the same project?

Yes, you can mix Pop Cloth and Vintage Cloth in the same quilt, but there are a few considerations. Because the two fabrics have different weights and stretch characteristics, you may need to adjust your seam allowances or pressing techniques to ensure the blocks lie flat. It's a good idea to test a small sample before committing to a full quilt.

If you're following a pattern that specifies one fabric type, such as a pattern designed for Pop Cloth's stability, substituting Vintage Cloth may require more careful handling. Conversely, if a pattern calls for Vintage Cloth's drape, using Pop Cloth could make the quilt stiffer. Always check the pattern's fabric recommendations and consider making a test block first.

  • Test a sample block before mixing fabrics in a full quilt.
  • Adjust pressing and seam allowances as needed.
  • Follow pattern recommendations for best results.

How should I care for quilts made with Pop Cloth or Vintage Cloth?

Both Pop Cloth and Vintage Cloth are machine washable, but to preserve their appearance and longevity, it's best to wash finished quilts in cold water on a gentle cycle. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softeners, which can break down fibers over time. Tumble dry on low or hang to dry to minimize shrinkage.

For Vintage Cloth, which is garment-dyed, there is a slight risk of color transfer in the first few washes, so wash it separately or with like colors. Pop Cloth is colorfast and can be washed with other fabrics. Always follow the care instructions that come with your fabric, and when in doubt, test a small swatch.

  • Machine wash cold on gentle cycle.
  • Avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
  • Tumble dry low or hang to dry.

Where can I buy Sew Kind of Wonderful Pop Cloth and Vintage Cloth?

Sew Kind of Wonderful sells Pop Cloth and Vintage Cloth directly through our online store. We offer a variety of colors and prints, and you can purchase by the yard. For specific projects, you can also find coordinating thread and notions, like the Aurifil Vintage Cloth Collection, to complete your kit.

If you prefer to shop in person, check our store locator for authorized retailers that carry our fabrics. Many quilt shops also offer online ordering with shipping, so you can get the fabric you need no matter where you are.

  • Shop directly on our website for the full selection.
  • Use our store locator to find local retailers.
  • Look for coordinating thread and notions to match your fabric.

Quick Fabric Checklist

Pop Cloth

Stable, no pre-wash, holds shape well. Ideal for curved piecing and precise blocks. Choose Pop Cloth for patterns with many curves or when you want crisp, accurate seams.

Vintage Cloth

Soft, pre-washed, garment-dyed. Offers a vintage look and gentle hand. Choose Vintage Cloth for heirloom-style quilts or projects that will be handled often.

Cotton Lawn

Lightweight, tightly woven. Great for quilt backs and garments. Use cotton lawn as a backing to add softness and drape to your quilt.

  • Aurifil Thread - Vintage Cloth Collection: Aurifil Thread is 100% cotton made in Italy from high quality Egyptian cotton. Our Vintage Cloth 7 Spool collection is the perfect compliment for piecing your Vintage Cloth projects. Using a high-quality thread like this ensures smooth stitching and reduces lint, which is especially important when working with delicate or pre-washed fabrics like Vintage Cloth.
  • Field Cloth - Cotton Lawn: Cotton Lawn (also known as Voile) is lightweight, tightly woven cotton that works well for blouses, dresses, skirts, QUILT BACKS, and more. Discover the soft hand and beautiful drape which creates a soft and cuddly quilt and clothes that flow! Cotton lawn makes an excellent backing for quilts, adding softness and drape while keeping the quilt lightweight—perfect for showcasing your Pop Cloth or Vintage Cloth tops.

We hope these answers help you feel more confident when choosing and caring for Sew Kind of Wonderful fabrics. Remember to test your fabrics and enjoy the creative process. Happy quilting!