Why Cotton-Based Fabrics Are the Best Choice for Handmade Kids’ Clothing
Trying to figure out which fabric is the best for your project? Keep reading to find out which fabrics are our favourites and why!
At Auggie + Co, we carefully select fabrics that are not only beautiful but practical for everyday family life. Whether you’re sewing for babies, toddlers, or adventurous big kids, cotton-based fabrics remain one of the best choices.
Why Cotton?
Cotton has been loved by sewists for generations, and for good reason.
It is naturally breathable, soft against the skin, durable enough for everyday adventures, and comfortable to wear all year round. Unlike many synthetic fabrics, cotton allows air to circulate, helping little ones stay comfortable whether they’re playing outside or curled up inside.
Our entire range focuses on premium cotton blends because we believe handmade clothing should feel as good as it looks.
Cotton Lycra – The Everyday Favourite
Cotton Lycra is probably the most versatile fabric in any sewing room.
The addition of a small amount of Lycra gives the fabric excellent stretch and recovery, making it perfect for garments that need to move with active kids.
Ideal projects include:
- T-shirts
- Leggings
- Bike shorts
- Dresses
- Rompers
- Pyjamas
- Baby clothing
Made from 95% Cotton / 5% Spandex, Cotton Lycra offers comfortable 4-way stretch with excellent recovery, making it easy to sew and even easier to wear. Available in a range of weights from lightweight through to 280gsm, it's suitable for everything from summer basics to cosy cooler-weather garments. All of our Cotton Lycra fabrics are OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, so you can sew with confidence knowing they're safe for the whole family.
French Terry – Soft Comfort for Every Season
Cotton French Terry is the perfect choice when you want a fabric that's warmer than Cotton Lycra but lighter and more breathable than traditional fleece. With its soft feel, comfortable stretch, and durable finish, it's ideal for creating garments you'll reach for again and again.
It’s perfect for:
- Hoodies
- Sweatshirts
- Joggers
- Lounge sets
- Winter dresses
- Pullovers
Made from 95% Cotton / 5% Spandex, our Cotton French Terry offers comfortable 4-way stretch with excellent recovery, making it easy to sew and comfortable to wear. Choose from looped French Terry for year-round versatility or brushed French Terry for extra warmth during the cooler months. Available in a range of colours and prints, all of our French Terry fabrics are OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, making them safe for the whole family.
Cotton Waffle – Texture You’ll Love
Cotton Waffle is a soft, breathable woven fabric with a distinctive textured weave that adds depth and character to every project. Lightweight yet absorbent, it's a versatile choice for both clothing and practical everyday items.
Perfect for:
- Dresses & pinafores
- Shorts & bloomers
- Baby rompers
- Lightweight jackets
- Blankets & swaddles
- Towels & washcloths
- Accessories & home décor
Made from 100% Cotton and weighing 270gsm, our Cotton Waffle combines natural breathability with a beautifully textured finish. It's gentle against the skin, easy to sew, and ideal for creating timeless handmade pieces with a premium look and feel. All of our Cotton Waffle fabrics are OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, so you can create with confidence for the whole family.
Organic Cotton Rib – Made for Everyday Wear
Organic Cotton Rib isn't just for trims—it's a beautifully soft, stretchy fabric that's perfect for creating comfortable, close-fitting garments.
Ideal for:
- Baby rompers & bodysuits
- Leggings & tights
- Flares
- Fitted tops
- Dresses
- Matching lounge sets
Its ribbed texture provides natural stretch with excellent recovery, making it comfortable to wear while helping garments retain their shape. Made from 95% Organic Cotton / 5% Spandex and OEKO-TEX® certified, it's a wonderful choice for everyday essentials and children's clothing.
350gsm Cotton Cuff Rib – The Perfect Finishing Touch
The right ribbing can take a handmade garment from good to professional-looking.
Our heavyweight 350gsm Cotton Cuff Rib is specially designed to provide excellent stretch, recovery and durability, making it the ideal finishing fabric for knit garments.
Perfect for:
- Neckbands
- Sleeve cuffs
- Waistbands
- Hoodie bands
- Jogger cuffs
- Beanies
- Matching trims for French Terry and Cotton Lycra garments
Made from 95% Cotton / 5% Spandex, this premium ribbing has the perfect amount of stretch to create snug, comfortable finishes that bounce back wash after wash, helping your handmade garments look great and last longer.
Every fabric we stock is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified.
That means every fabric has been tested for harmful substances, giving you confidence that it’s safe for babies, children, and the whole family.
Why Handmade Clothing Lasts Longer?
One of the biggest benefits of sewing your own clothing is quality. By choosing premium fabrics and taking the time to create each garment yourself, you’re making clothing designed to last through adventures, playgrounds, countless washes, and even siblings.
Many of our customers tell us their handmade garments become treasured hand-me-downs.
Find Your Perfect Fabric
Whether you’re making a first pair of leggings, a cosy winter hoodie, or a beautiful twirl dress, choosing the right fabric makes all the difference.
At Auggie + Co, we’re passionate about helping makers find premium cotton fabrics that are a joy to sew and even better to wear.
Happy sewing!