meyert

I don't really understand why causes some fabric to fray more than others... but I have seen that some do fray worse than others. I was working on a quilt for quilts for kids with donated fabric. Not really sure where all of the donated fabric comes from. I have some that the bolt calls out "84 thread count".. its the perfect color so I will probably use it. But I am concerned about the thread count. I can feel a difference to the touch, which I am not concerned about. But I was wondering about fraying.... what causes fraying? Is the thread count what causes the fraying?

mike'sgirl

It does have to do with how loosely woven a fabric is, but I'm not sure if thread count is an issue. Sorry not much help.

tessagin

When I'm work with a fabric with a low thread count or worried it might fray, I trim the edge with pinking shears or run a thin bead of glue along the edge. It's ok if it's permanent because it's going to get cut anyway. Then I prewash it and throw into the dryer.

sewbeadit

It depends on how it is woven. I find very good well made fabrics will ravel. Just the nature of the thing. Pinking shears like Tessagin says would be a good though.

bearisgray

If that fabric is much flimsier than the rest of the fabrics - it will probably wear out first or pull out of the seams fairly easily.

I would not use it - perfect color or not.

meyert

Thanks for your thoughts. I don't have pinking shears.. maybe I will see if I have any fray block before I go any farther