What is batting?

The layers or sheets of filler placed between two pieces of fabric. Its thickness varies and it provides the warmth and, if you are quilting, the batting shows off the stitching to best advantage.

What is binding?

Binding is a narrow piece of fabric used to finish off 2 raw edges of fabric that are sewn together. This can either be purchased or you can make your own.

What is a charm square?

A charm square is usually a 5" square of fabric that can be sewn to make interesting fabric combinations.

What is WoolFelt?

WoolFelt is made when sheep's wool is exposed to agitation, heat, and moisure, which causes the outer scales of the fiber to open up. Soap (an alkaline agent) lets the fibers slide over each other which causes them to become tangled up with each other. These fibers are then permanently bound to each other through a chemical process that cannot be undone.

What is Buckram?

Buckram is a stiff stabilizer used to give your handbag shape, similar (but more intense!) than Timtex or Peltex and made of cotton fibers. This stabilizer can also be creased, which can give a nice, professional finish to your bags.

What is Peltex?

Peltex is heavier and firmer than Pellon and is very similar to Timtex, although it is thinner (about half the thickness of Timtex). It is usually 20 inches wide and dry cleanable. It's biggest advantage is that is can be folded and bent during the sewing process but does not retain these markings.

What is Timtex?

Timtex is very similar to Peltex and gives very good stability and structure to your handbags. I have heard that it has been discontinued and have not been able to find it in local stores lately.

What is Fast2Fuse?

Fast2Fuse is a stabilizer that is similar to Peltex #70 but is more expensive. It is usually 28" wide and is machine washable.

What is Vliesofix?

This is mostly an Australian stabilizer. A good substitute is Heat N' Bond®

What is Shapewell?

This is another Australian product. A good substitute is crinoline.

Fat Quarter Measurements -

Fat Quarters - 18" x 22" (1/4 yard)
Fat 16ths - 9" x 11"
Fat 1/8ths - 11" x 22"
2 Fat Quarters = 1/2 yard

Jelly Rolls - usually sold in packs of 40, these are 2 1/2" by the width of the fabric (44" - 45")

Layer Cakes - Usually sold in packs containing 40, these are 10" squares of fabric.