Inside Out: The Importance of Linings

Linings are very important parts of a garment. Theyand dress; cotton blends are ideal for casual wear as
are the ones responsible for enhancing and maintainingwell.
the flow, the drape and the form of the outer fabric.In ensembles, a jacket or a coat is normally lined with
Linings also facilitate comfortable and smooth garmentfabrics used for the blouse to show a more
donning and doffing.coordinated effect. But if the fabric is too expensive
During warm seasons, linings help in preventing hot andand doesn't easily slip on and off, a lining fabric is
moist interior discomfort common with unlinedenough to line the sleeves.
garments. They provide a cooler but damp fabricFor winter coats and winter jackets, the most
adhesion to the skin to keep the wearer comfortablecommon linings are fake furs. But the styles of the
even during very hot seasons.coat have to be of loose fit to provide more room for
Romina Abrigo Editor of the "Sewing Machines Forthe fake fur. To cut the lining pieces, remove the
Sale" website -- -- pointed out;center back pleat that is normally provided in regular
"…Since linings, interlinings, as well as under-linings allcoat linings. To prevent getting bulky all the more, lining
have different fabrics added to the interior of afabrics is good enough for sleeves.
garment, it is essential that you know the purpose ofIf you wish to add linings that aren't provided in the
these garment additions…" Added Romina Abrigopattern, choose the pattern pieces that will be lines. For
Linings are assembled separately, treating them as ifjackets and fonts with front facing, its front linings
they were second garments. Placed inside the wrongshould be smaller that its pattern piece. Use these
sided of the garment before securely attaching thempattern pieces in figuring the yardage. Be sure to take
on the edges, linings provide garments with a smoothinto account the lining fabrics width.
inside finish. Most common garments that have liningsWhat is Quick-lining?
include capes, coats, jackets, and other forms of outerIn some patterns, linings are cut from specific lining
garments.patterns before seamed securely to the edges of the
In other garments, linings not only add comfort but agarments facings. This involves a quick-lining method.
feeling of luxury as well. If the fabric of the garment isTo do this, simply cut the linings from the overall
rough to the touch, linings can provide a smoother feel.garment pattern pieces. Layer and sew the linings and
In pants or straight skirts, linings prevent bagginess atthe facings together and treat them as one unit. Once
the knees and seat. Skirts are normally lined just belowdone, the weight of the lining will help hold the facings in
the seat, enough to prevent wrinkling and stretching. Ifplace.
the lining is made smaller than the garment, it can helpQuick lining has a lot of advantages. You don't need to
preserve the shape of the garment. But since the liningchoose, cut or fuse an interfacing not unless you
is caught in the seams, it isn't enough to contribute toprefer the waistband of your skirt extra-firm. The
the shaping of the garment itself.linings are also easy to assemble if the facing/lining
Lining Fabricsseams are kept simple. The seams prevent the
The fabrics used for linings may be custom made forfacings from rolling out of position. Additionally, since the
this purpose or not. You can find special fabrics infacings are stitched on top of the linings, they help in
most lining sections of your favorite fabric store.preventing the seams from showing. Also, all the major
Likewise, dress fabrics such as taffeta, silk-crepe,seams in sleeveless garments are finished on a
tricot, and satin are also beautiful options for linings. Butsewing machine, include the armholes.
these fabrics have to be soft, pliable and light enough in"…In making garments, it not only calls for stylish
weight not to hinder the hang of the garment fabric.designs but also it seeks to provide the wearer a
Also, fibers may also vary in construction and content.comfortable fit.
China soft is excellent to line garments that are soft