BLOG – Fabricworm https://www.fabricworm.com Modern Fabrics for Modern Sewists! Mon, 02 Feb 2026 21:36:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://fabric-worm-offload-bucket.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/20141841/fabricwormfavicon.png BLOG – Fabricworm https://www.fabricworm.com 32 32 Christmas Stocking Free Pattern – Updated 12/25 https://www.fabricworm.com/christmas-stocking-free-pattern-by-lunden-designs/ Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:30:00 +0000 https://fabricworm.com/?p=4616

From the ever so talented and crafty Lunden Designs, we present you a fast and easy Christmas stocking free pattern, just in time for the holidays! It is a great way to make a really special gift with some fun fabrics!

Find the UPDATED 12/2025 pattern here.

Sample stocking features Birch Organic Solid Poplin and Charley Harper Holiday fabrics.

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Understanding Interlock Knit https://www.fabricworm.com/understanding-interlock-knit/ Thu, 05 Jun 2025 21:02:03 +0000 https://www.fabricworm.com/?p=24179

The Durable and Soft Fabric You Didn’t Know You Loved!

 

When it comes to choosing the perfect fabric for comfort, durability, and versatility, interlock knit often flies under the radar—yet it deserves the spotlight. Whether you’re a fashion designer, a DIY sewist, or simply someone who appreciates a well-made t-shirt, understanding what interlock knit is and why it’s so special can elevate your fabric game.

What Is Interlock Knit?

Interlock knit is a type of double-knit fabric, meaning it’s made on a knitting machine with two needle beds. Unlike single-knit fabrics (like jersey), interlock is constructed with two rows of stitches that interlock—hence the name. This construction results in a fabric that’s thicker, more stable, and smoother on both sides compared to its single-knit counterparts. These features make interlock knit a dream to sew with, even for beginners.

 

Key Characteristics of Interlock Knit

Here’s what makes interlock knit stand out:

  • Softness: It’s incredibly smooth and soft to the touch, which makes it ideal for clothing worn close to the skin—think baby clothes, underwear, and t-shirts.
  • Thickness: The double-knit nature means it’s generally thicker than jersey, offering more warmth and opacity.
  • Stability: Interlock doesn’t curl at the edges when cut, unlike jersey, making it easier to sew—especially for beginners.
  • Stretch & Recovery: It has a natural stretch (especially crosswise) and decent recovery, making it comfortable for garments that move with the body.
  • Reversible: With the same appearance on both sides, interlock gives more flexibility in design and usage.
 
Zo Famu Black Metallic Organic Bodysuit
Hive Organic Bodysuit

Interlock knit is incredibly versatile. You’ll often find it in:

Its combination of comfort and structure makes it perfect for garments that need both shape and softness.

Grow With Me Playsuit Mochi Dot Girl

Sewing Tips for Interlock Knit

  • Use a ballpoint or stretch needle to avoid snags.
  • A walking foot helps layers feed evenly.
  • Finish seams with a serger, or use a zigzag or stretch stitch on your sewing machine.
  • Avoid over-stretching the fabric while sewing to prevent puckering.

 

Caring for Interlock Knit

Birch Fabrics’ interlock knits are made from 95% cotton, 5% spandex making them easy to care for. Machine wash cold and tumble dry low to preserve the fabric’s softness and elasticity. 

Final Thoughts
Interlock knit offers a perfect balance between comfort and structure. It’s a workhorse in the knit fabric world—understated yet indispensable. Whether you’re crafting children’s clothes or designing a cozy fall collection, interlock is a fabric worth exploring.

So next time you run your hand over a super-soft t-shirt or admire a garment that holds its shape beautifully, there’s a good chance it’s made from interlock knit—and now you know why it feels just right.

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Sewing with Lawn Fabric: Why We Love Birch Organic for Lightweight Projects https://www.fabricworm.com/sewing-with-lawn-fabric-why-we-love-birch-organic-for-lightweight-projects/ Tue, 20 May 2025 19:10:55 +0000 https://www.fabricworm.com/?p=24019

If you’re looking for a lightweight, breathable fabric that’s as beautiful as it is sustainable, lawn is your new best friend — and no one does organic lawn quite like Birch Fabrics. Here at Fabricworm, we love carrying Birch’s soft, organic lawn prints, especially their designer collections like The Wild Coast by Mustard Beetle and There Was A Fox by Emily Isabella.

Whether you’re sewing a summer dress, a breezy top, or a baby swaddle, lawn is a dream to work with — and it’s gentler on the planet, too.

Birch Organic Lawn Fabrics

🧵 What Is Lawn Fabric?

Lawn is a fine, smooth, and lightweight cotton fabric with a soft hand and slightly crisp drape. It’s more breathable and delicate than quilting cotton, but more structured than voile or gauze.

You’ll love lawn for:

  • Garments like blouses, skirts, summer dresses

  • Baby items like swaddles and lightweight blankets

  • Accessories such as scarves and handkerchiefs

  • Quilt accents where light texture is desired

🌱 Why Choose Birch Organic Lawn?

All Birch Organic Fabrics are made from 100% organic cotton, and their lawn line is:

  • Buttery soft with a light, flowy drape

  • Printed with low-impact dyes

Their lawn fabric feels smooth and soft, but still has enough body to sew easily — even if you’re a beginner.

Favorite Prints from The Wild Coast Collection

We’re currently swooning over The Wild Coast — a nature-inspired collection by Mustard Beetle that celebrates ocean life, forest scenes, and woodland whimsy. Some customer (and staff!) favorites include:

👉 Browse The Wild Coast Lawn Collection »

👉 Check out There Was A Fox Lawn Collection »

🪡 Tips for Sewing with Lawn Fabric

  1. Use a fine needle. A size 70/10 or 75/11 works best.

  2. Pre-wash your fabric. It’s not always necessary, but a quick wash ensures no surprises.

  3. French seams = clean finish. Lawn is semi-sheer, so using French seams makes your garment look polished inside and out.

  4. Press gently. A warm iron gives lawn a crisp, professional look.

Easy Project Ideas Using Lawn

  • Baby Swaddles or Bandanas – One yard goes a long way!

  • Summer Tank or Sundress – Great drape for breathable wear

  • Lightweight Scarf – Showcase bold prints like Marine Deep Blue

  • Skirt Linings – Use lawn under gauze or voile for softness and opacity

We love pairing Birch lawn with fun sewing patterns like the Easy Summer Boho Chic Tunic by So Sew Easy or check out how to use a rolled hem foot with SewCanShe. A rolled hem is great for Lawn fabrics and will give you a beautifully finished look.

This little lady is already asking for a new dress with the Window Pane Chalk Pink Lawn from There Was A Fox. Looks like I’ve got a pattern to search for!

Window Pane Chalk Pink Lawn, There Was A Fox by Emily Isabella

We sent some lawn to Mari over at Sew Happy and we are so impressed by her Button-Up Shirt for Summer Tutorial! She used Birch Fabrics, Window Pane Forget Me Not Lawn and made a timeless top that is perfect for warm weather. Check out her YouTube channel for many more great tutorials and sewing tips, and be on the lookout for more tutorials from her featuring our fabrics!

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Self Binding Blanket Tutorial https://www.fabricworm.com/self-binding-blanket-tutorial/ Fri, 09 May 2025 19:37:54 +0000 https://www.fabricworm.com/?p=23918
Living on the West Coast of California we get to explore some of the countries
most beautiful National Parks. Each unique and stunning in their own way.
Like those parks, we know this new collection from Riley Blake will help create
lasting summer memories. While the heatwave of 2019 scorches, we are staying low
and cool indoors making a simple, self binding blanket today. Once it’s safe to
head outside we plan to take our new blankets on new adventures.

To get started it’s best to prewash your fabrics. Increase the longevity of your fabrics
by hand washing, or agitate on a gentle cycle in cold water with like colors using a fragrance free,
non-chlorinated detergent. Dry your fabric on a low/medium cycle or line-dry.

 

Self Binding Blanket Fabric Requirements:
1 yard of 44” wide fabric or a 36” x 44” panel
1 ⅓ yard of wide width or backing fabric measuring 46” x 54”

 

We used a Panel we stocked when we made this post originally but any of the Charley Harper Panels we have now will look great
We backed it with Birch Organic, Fleece and used the sweatshirt side of the fleece for
ultimate soft feels.

 

Sewing Tools to Complete Your project:
Scissors, ruler, marking pen, pins, basic machine sewing, & 1/2” seam allowance suggested.

 

We used a walking foot attachment to make this blanket.
Let’s begin!
  • Trim your panel to 36” x 44” and cut your backing fabric down to measure just 5” inches over each side, so 46” x 54”.
  • On your backing fabric, mark 5” inches out from each corner. Mark out the line from each 5” mark and cut it on each corner.
  • Place your fabric right sides together and center.
  • Pin your top and bottom edges, leaving 5” inches over on each side edge.
  • Using a ruler and marking pen, mark a dot ½” in at all four corners
  • Sew the top and bottom edges together, starting and stopping at the marks you made. Sew slowly to avoid stretching the fleece, and use extra pins if necessary.
  •  Pin your sides and leave an 8″ inch opening on one side to turn blanket. 
  • Sew the top and bottom edges together, starting and stopping at the marks you made. These should start and end at the same marking points at the top and bottom seams.
  • Starting in one corner, pin the fleece corner starting at the marking point, and ending at the folded edge. Repeat pinning process in all corners. 
  • Mark the ½” starting point on the folded edge of the backing and sew with a ½” seam allowance to the marking point. Repeat on all corners.
  • Trim corners at 90 degree angle
  • Iron seams towards fleece and turn blanket.
  • Pin seams to fleece and top stitch ¼” into the fleece, this will secure
    blanket and seams.
  • Tada! You’re all done.
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Your Spring Sewing Guide: Gauze, Skirts & Organic Fabric Projects https://www.fabricworm.com/your-spring-sewing-guide-gauze-skirts-organic-fabric-projects/ Fri, 25 Apr 2025 20:39:49 +0000 https://www.fabricworm.com/?p=23702

Hello, Spring Sewing Season!

Spring is the perfect time for a fresh start—with your wardrobe, your sewing space, and your creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned sewist or just picking up your first pattern, this guide has everything you need to get inspired.

From dreamy double gauze to the ever-versatile Estuary Skirt, we’re sharing our favorite fabrics, patterns, and projects to help you make the most of this season.

 

What is Double Gauze Fabric?

Double gauze is a lightweight, breathable fabric made from two layers of gauze that are invisibly stitched together. It has a soft, slightly crinkled texture and is a favorite among sewists for warm-weather garments and cozy baby makes.

    Why we love it:

    • Super breathable and comfy

    • Softens with each wash

    • Drapes beautifully

    • Easy to wear, easy to love

Want to try it? We love our Solid Honey Double Gauze—a golden, sunshiney hue that’s perfect for skirts, tops, baby blankets, and more.

               Sewing Tip: Use a walking foot and prewash your fabric—gauze can shift a bit while sewing!

 

Estuary Shirt in Double Gauze

The Estuary Skirt by Sew Liberated

Looking for the perfect skirt pattern? Meet the Estuary Skirt by Sew Liberated—a flowy, flattering, and practical pattern that works for sewists of all skill levels.

    Why we love it:

    • Beginner-friendly and incredibly wearable

    • Elastic back + button front = comfort + style

    • Works with gauze, poplin, linen, and even canvas

    • Yes, it has pockets!

                        Pair it with double gauze for an airy spring look or use Birch Organic Poplin for a more structured vibe.

 

10 Spring Projects with Birch Organic Fabrics

Birch Organic Fabrics are sustainable, soft, and come in beautiful prints and colors. Here are 10 project ideas to kick off your spring sewing with a fresh burst of creativity:

  1. Estuary Skirt in Solid Honey Double Gauze

  2. Baby Swaddle Blanket in Birch Organic Gauze

  3. Button-Front Blouse using Birch Poplin

  4. Reusable Napkins in Birch Linen

  5. Lightweight Robe in Gauze or Knit

  6. Gathered Summer Dress in Solid Gauze

  7. Lounge Shorts in Birch Organic Knit

  8. Scrunchies made from gauze scraps

  9. Patternless Messenger Bag in Birch Canvas

  10. Kids’ Spring Dress in Organic Poplin

                   Want a pattern? Don’t forget to check our Tutorials Page for more ideas!

 

Ready to Sew?

Spring sewing is all about fresh starts, soft fabrics, and pieces you’ll actually want to wear. Whether you’re stocking up on precut gauze, trying your hand at the Estuary Skirt, or diving into Birch Organic prints, we’re here to help.

Shop now, get inspired, and tag us @fabricworm in your makes—we can’t wait to see what you create!

Birch Organic Solid Double Gauze
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Estuary Skirt in Soft Organic Double Gauze https://www.fabricworm.com/estuary-skirt-in-soft-organic-double-gauze/ Fri, 25 Apr 2025 17:51:12 +0000 https://www.fabricworm.com/?p=23674

 

 By Amanda, A Fabricworm Maker

What says spring sewing better than yellow? I’ll admit I often admire yellows from 

afar but am too scared to make something to wear with it. I love how bright and 

happy it is, but I worry it’ll clash with my skin tone or be too bright and happy. 

Well I took the plunge and this Honey colored organic cotton double gauze is the 

PERFECT tone of yellow for me (and probably for you too). I’m more of a skirt 

and dress person these days especially as it gets warmer. Double gauze is perfect 

for warmer climates because it’s super breezy and has a fairly fluid drape.  

I decided to make the Estuary Skirt from Sew Liberated and if I’m being honest it 

was a good lesson in being okay with the imperfect. For some reason my sewing 

machine really did not like one specific spot for my buttonholes and it just kept 

getting stuck. After picking out the buttonhole for what felt like the hundredth 

time my fabric was looking a little rough around the edges. At the end of the day 

the only person who will be able to tell my buttonhole is not perfect is me. 

Well and you, but you probably won’t ever see me wearing this skirt out in the 

world and if you do I assure you you will not be this close to my buttonholes.

 

                                                                                    

I think in the age of social media it is easy to be convinced everyone else is making 

things perfectly and there are 0 mistakes or ripped seams. It’s okay to not have every 

seam perfect because ultimately really only you will know and also ready to wear clothes 

also are not perfect at all.

Anyways, the organic double gauze is a really lovely fabric to work with and 

is not too finicky. You do need to be mindful that while its two layers are tacked together, 

when manipulating the fabric they can come apart. You also need to be careful if you need 

to seam rip because the looser weave of the fabric allows your seam ripper to get in there and mess up your day. 

                                                                                         

As someone who only somewhat recently started sewing woven apparel items 

I found the most intimidating aspect to be choosing a size. When you sew knits 

you know there’s stretch, so if it is a little too small it may still fit and look great, 

but that’s not really the case with wovens. The best advice I got about choosing a size 

was to consult both the size chart AND the measurements of the finished garment. 

I was between two sizes in this skirt and decided to size up. The benefit of sizing up 

vs down is that if you get a little smaller you can always take it in and if you get a 

little bigger you’ll likely still be able to wear it. I’m really in love with this imperfect 

sunny spring skirt and I cannot wait to make more things to go with it!

Bio – Amanda is a stay at home mom of 2 young boys, living outside of
Charlotte, North Carolina. She can be found on
Instagram @mandabe4r where she shares everyday life and crafty things.  

 

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On The Fence Quilt Pattern by Lunden Designs https://www.fabricworm.com/on-the-fence-quilt-pattern-by-lunden-designs/ Fri, 11 Apr 2025 16:23:44 +0000 https://www.fabricworm.com/?p=23514

Blast from the past post! We just had an inquiry about this quilt pattern, so we thought we’d drop it here for any of you quilters looking for something fun for spring. Enjoy this oldie but goodie from back in 2014! Keep in mind the fabrics used are out of print but the quilt would look great with any of the many Charley Harper fabrics

We are thrilled to welcome a dear friend of ours, Melissa Lunden of Lunden Designs, to the Fabricworm blog today. Melissa is showing us how to put together this ultra modern, and ultra fabulous quilt! Melissa used the upcoming Charley Harper Nurture collection in fat quarters and was really able to show off each of the 17 prints in the collection! It just hurts us so bad when a pattern calls for a lot of waste, we shed ourselves a few tears of and then force ourselves to carry on. Today we’re glad to report that On The Fence really uses up those fat quarters perfectly!
 
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Fall Quilting – Octoberama Quilts https://www.fabricworm.com/elementor-20698/ Thu, 24 Oct 2024 20:07:18 +0000 https://www.fabricworm.com/?p=20698

Nothing keeps you cozier than a handmade quilt and it’s even better when the fabric is organic and the pattern is free! If you’re up for a great fall quilt pattern, let one or both of these Octoberama Quilts be your next make.

Octoberama is a free block pattern that showcases large scale prints, and is reminiscent of Charley Harper’s iconic Octoberama leaf painting. Octoberama Diamond is a new layout option that features two directions of “leaves” creating a cool diamond pattern. 

Check out the patterns and bundles we suggest below.

Bundles and Fabric Suggestions

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Best Friends Panel Free Quilt Pattern https://www.fabricworm.com/best-friends-panel-free-quilt-pattern/ Tue, 03 Sep 2024 21:17:52 +0000 https://www.fabricworm.com/?p=18774

We’ve collaborated with Birch Quilts to create a fun, modern pattern to feature a full yard panel such as the Charley Harper Best Friends Poster Panel! Make pretty sawtooth stars as a frame with instruction that is directional pattern friendly! Finished quilt measures a whopping 72″ x 90″ while being fat quarter friendly.

Charley Harper Best Friends Panel
Charley Harper Best Friends Half yards
Charley Harper Best Friends Half yards
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Sewing with Double Gauze? Let’s dive in. https://www.fabricworm.com/sewing-with-double-gauze-lets-dive-in/ https://www.fabricworm.com/sewing-with-double-gauze-lets-dive-in/#respond Fri, 22 Sep 2023 19:49:50 +0000 https://www.fabricworm.com/?p=7287
Organic Double Gauze Fabric

Sewing with double gauze fabric can be a delightful experience. Double gauze is a lightweight, breathable, and soft fabric that is often used for making comfortable clothing items, baby products, and lightweight home decor. For an extra soft and luxurious double gauze, buy organic! Here are some tips and steps to help you sew with double gauze:

Materials and Tools You’ll Need:

     

      1. Double Gauze Fabric: Choose the color and pattern of double gauze fabric that suits your project. It’s important to prewash and press the fabric before cutting and sewing to prevent shrinkage.

      1. Thread: Use a good quality thread that matches the color of your double gauze fabric.

      1. Sewing Machine: A regular sewing machine is suitable for sewing double gauze. However, a walking foot can help feed the fabric evenly, preventing puckering.

      1. Needles: A universal or ballpoint needle is a good choice for double gauze. These needles will prevent the fabric from getting damaged or stretched.

      1. Pins or Clips: Use pins or sewing clips to hold your double gauze fabric pieces together while sewing.

      1. Iron and Ironing Board: Ironing is crucial when working with double gauze to achieve neat, professional results.

    Steps for Sewing with Double Gauze:

       

        1. Preparation:

             

              • Wash and press your double gauze fabric to remove any sizing or shrinkage.

              • Carefully read and follow your pattern’s instructions.

          1. Cutting:

               

                • Use sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter and a cutting mat to cut your double gauze fabric pieces.

                • Cut your double gauze fabric with precision to ensure even edges.

            1. Thread and Needle:

                 

                  • Thread your sewing machine with a color-matched thread.

                  • Ensure you have the appropriate needle (universal or ballpoint) installed in your machine.

              1. Stitch Length and Tension:

                   

                    • Adjust your machine’s stitch length to a medium setting (around 2.5 mm).

                    • Test the stitch tension on a scrap piece of double gauze to make sure it’s not too tight or too loose.

                1. Seam Allowance:

                     

                      • Follow the pattern’s recommended seam allowance, typically 3/8 inch (1 cm) or as specified.

                  1. Pinning or Clipping:

                       

                        • Use pins or sewing clips to secure your fabric pieces together, making sure they align accurately.

                    1. Sewing:

                         

                          • Start sewing slowly and evenly, guiding the fabric under the machine’s presser foot.

                          • Be mindful of the fabric’s lightweight nature, and avoid pulling or stretching it as you sew.

                          • Backstitch at the beginning and end of seams to secure them.

                      1. Pressing:

                           

                            • After sewing, press your seams open or to one side with a warm iron.

                            • Use a pressing cloth or a layer of the double gauze fabric to protect it from direct heat, as it’s delicate.

                        1. Finishing Touches:

                             

                              • Follow the pattern’s instructions for finishing touches, such as hemming, adding buttons or snaps, or attaching closures.

                          1. Care Instructions:

                               

                                • Always follow the care instructions provided with your double gauze fabric, as it may require gentle washing and drying to maintain its softness and texture.

                          Sewing with double gauze can be a rewarding experience, resulting in comfortable and breathable clothing or beautiful home decor items. Just remember to take your time, handle the fabric gently, and practice on scraps if you’re new to working with this material.

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                          Welcome To Our New Website! https://www.fabricworm.com/welcome-to-fabricworm/ Tue, 08 Aug 2023 23:09:07 +0000 https://fabricworm.com/?p=4697
                          Fabricworm

                          Howdy Fabricworms! 

                          Welcome to our new home on the world wide web! You might notice some big changes, and that some of our regular content and products are nowhere to be found – do not fret! We are busy working on repopulating all of the good stuff over the next weeks while we set up shop! 

                          Read on for a very honest letter about our recent experience with our old website’s demise and inevitably why we built a brand new website from the ground up!

                          Here are some of the things we are working on that you might be missing: Patterns, Notions, Gift Certificates, User Accounts, Free Patterns & Tutorials, Sale Fabrics. As we add more of this lovely content and features, we will let you know via newsletter – sign up at the bottom of the page!

                          Our shop is still stocked full of gorgeous fabric, and we invite you to come on in! We are open 7 days a week, 9-3 daily. Read more about us here!

                          If you have any questions for us about the process, or where that fabric you had your eye on last week, get in touch with us and we will be happy to answer any and all questions.

                          Below is an open letter from us to you about our recent experience and why so much has changed, but in light, it is only better from here!

                          A New Beginning: Starting From Scratch After 15 Years!

                           

                          Dear Friends and Fabricworms, 

                          It has been quite the journey over the last decade and a half. We have had momentous highs and crushing lows, all while being a part of something we love, in a community we deeply care about. 

                          Way back in the beginning in 2008, we built our dream on the Yahoo Small Business platform. Over the years we have added thousands of fabrics, bundles, notions, patterns, and even for a small time – yarn, to our beautiful boutique fabric store in Paso Robles, California where our charming website gave us the ability to share with you our collection of goods world wide. We never would have dreamt of hopping ship to a new platform, as Yahoo had truly been great to us for so long.

                          All of that changed for good beginning April of 2023 when our website was completely rattled by the Turbify takeover. Our old website that had served us well for the last 15 years had become completely non-functional and all SEO took a nosedive. We were offline for days on end, and after weeks, very small facets of our back end would become available, such as the ability to add or remove products, access inventory and content, account information, and the like. The whole situation seemed very apparent that either Turbify bit off much more than they could chew, or downright lied when they promised “As we transition to the new brand, website and servers, we will gradually but comfortably move your experience over to turbify.com.” Which was extremely gradual but not at all comfortable. We feel completely scammed. 

                          The decision to transition to a brand new website was not made lightly. We felt it was time for a change that would propel us forward into a more user-friendly and powerful online shopping experience that we had control of. This transition presented both challenges and opportunities, and we are thankful for your patience while we get back on our feet. Creating a website from the ground up is no small feat, and we wanted to extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and everyone of you reading this as our small staff carries on through this journey. 

                          As we embark on this new chapter, you can expect the same thoroughly curated fabric selections, caring customer service, and a dream that just won’t be snuffed out!

                          If you have any questions for us, please don’t hesitate to drop us a line or give us a call. 

                           

                          Much love in a wavering time, 

                          The Fabricworm Team: 

                          Cynthia, Arleen, Natalie, Sharil, Bunny, Kathy, Donna, and Katie

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