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CALICO

An unbleached fabric featuring visible cotton seed flecks, primarily used for creating mock-up garments.

Calico is a light-to-heavyweight, undyed fabric featuring visible flecks of cotton seeds, giving it a natural, unfinished look. Known for its coarse and slightly fuzzy surface, calico is a durable and versatile material used primarily for mock-up garments and practical applications such as aprons and tote bags. Its stiffness makes it ideal for holding shapes during garment design and crafting.

Categories: , Product ID: 26363
  • Unfinished, Natural Appearance
    The visible cotton flecks contribute to its raw, organic aesthetic.
  • Durability
    The plain weave structure provides strength for repeated use and washing.
  • Softens Over Time
    Though initially stiff, calico becomes more pliable with continued use.
  • Shape Retention
    The rigid texture is perfect for holding garment forms in practice designs.
  • Difficult to Quilt
    Heavyweight versions of calico may pose challenges due to their rigidity.

Ek Bilgiler

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Aprons

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Curtains

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Pillowcases

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Tote Bags

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Practice Fabric

Product History

Calico’s origins trace back to 12th-century India, where it was first known as "calicut," named after the city of Calicut (now Kozhikode). As the first plain-woven cotton fabric, calico revolutionized textile production, offering a simple yet durable material for everyday use. It was widely exported to Europe, where its natural state was embraced even after bans on dyed and printed calico were imposed.

Today, calico remains a staple in fabric production, valued for its practicality and rustic charm. It plays a vital role in sustainable fashion and prototyping, serving as an affordable and eco-friendly option for designers and makers worldwide.

Product More Info

Calico is crafted using a plain weave from half-processed, unbleached cotton. Its raw texture is a result of minimal processing, which preserves the natural qualities of the cotton fibers. Blends with polyester may be added to enhance strength and reduce shrinkage.