Crepe fabrics are known for their textured finish, fluid drape and brilliant versatility. From floaty georgette to smooth dressmaking crepe, satin-backed crepe and more structured triple crepe, there is a crepe fabric to suit all sorts of sewing projects.
What is Crepe Fabric?
Crepe fabric usually has a slightly grainy or crinkled surface, often created using tightly twisted yarns. That texture is what gives crepe its character, setting it apart from completely smooth dress fabrics.
Depending on the weight and finish, crepe can be soft and floaty, smooth and fluid, or more substantial with a little more body. It is especially popular for dressmaking because it hangs well, feels comfortable to wear and works for both everyday garments and occasionwear.
Why choose crepe for dressmaking?
Crepe is one of those fabrics that looks polished without feeling too fussy. It skims nicely, moves well and usually has enough texture to feel forgiving when worn.
- Lightweight crepes are lovely for blouses, dresses and softer styles.
- Satin-backed crepes add a smoother, dressier finish for occasionwear.
- Heavier crepes offer more body for trousers, jackets and structured dresses.
- Textured crepes can help disguise creases better than very smooth fabrics.
Our crepe dress fabrics include a mix of weights, finishes and colours, so you can choose the right cloth for the way you want your garment to hang.
Types of crepe fabric
Georgette crepe
Georgette is a lightweight, sheer crepe fabric with a dry, slightly grainy texture and a soft, flowing drape. It is a good choice for floaty dresses, blouses, overlays and occasionwear. Because it is sheer, it is often lined or layered depending on the garment.
Smooth crepe fabrics
Smooth crepe is a reliable choice if you want a dressmaking fabric with movement, a clean finish and a soft handle.
Our Landon smooth crepe and Monaco crepe collections are good examples of this type of cloth. They work well when you want drape without too much cling, and they come in useful plains that are easy to plan into a handmade wardrobe.
Satin-backed crepe fabrics
Satin-backed crepe gives you two finishes in one fabric: a smooth satin face and a crepe backing. It feels fluid, dressy and substantial enough for garments that need movement without feeling flimsy.
Our Liquid satin-backed crepe and Luxury satin-backed crepe collections are made for dresses, gowns, bridesmaid dresses, occasionwear and smarter separates. The satin side gives a soft sheen, while the crepe side adds texture and a little extra grip when sewing.
Triple crepe
Triple crepe is a heavier crepe with more body, making it a strong option for garments that need structure as well as drape. It is often more opaque than lighter crepes, so it may not need lining depending on the colour, style and personal preference.
Use triple crepe for tailored dresses, trousers, jumpsuits, occasionwear and jackets where you want a cleaner silhouette. It has enough weight to feel smart, but still keeps the elegant movement crepe is known for.
Crepe de chine
Crepe de chine is a lighter crepe with a smooth, fluid feel and a subtle texture. It is softer than many traditional crepes, with a fine drape that works beautifully for blouses, shirts, camisoles, dresses and occasion pieces.
It is a good choice when you want something elegant and lightweight but not completely flat in texture. Printed crepe de chine is especially useful for soft tops and dresses with movement.
L-R: Completely Dotty : Flame : Molly : Belle : Black
What can you sew with crepe?
Crepe is a practical dressmaking fabric because it suits so many garment types. The key is matching the weight of the fabric to the pattern.
- Georgette crepe for floaty blouses, layered dresses and overlays.
- Smooth crepe for everyday dresses, skirts, trousers and tops.
- Satin-backed crepe for occasion dresses, gowns and smarter pieces.
- Triple crepe for structured dresses, tailored trousers, jackets and jumpsuits.
- Crepe de chine for soft shirts, camisoles, blouses and flowing dresses.
Tips for sewing crepe
Crepe is not difficult to sew, but some types can shift as you cut and stitch. A little patience at the preparation stage makes a big difference.
- Use a fine, sharp needle to avoid pulls or snags.
- Cut on a flat surface and let the fabric settle before pinning.
- Use plenty of fine pins or fabric clips, especially with lighter crepes.
- Test your stitch length and tension on a scrap before starting.
- Press carefully and use a pressing cloth if the fabric has a satin finish.
Explore our full range of crepe dress fabrics, including Landon smooth crepe, Monaco crepe, Liquid satin-backed crepe, Luxury satin-backed crepe, triple crepe, georgette and crepe de chine.
Happy sewing!
The Croft Mill Team x
