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All About Fabric
Selecting the right fabrics is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—parts of quilting. Whether you’re wondering how to coordinate colors, how much fabric to buy, or whether premium materials are worth the investment, this guide brings together the most common questions quilters ask. Explore expert tips, practical advice, and helpful insights to make confident, creative decisions for every project.
What fabric types are best for quilting?
100% quilting cotton is the industry standard due to its stability, ease of cutting, and smooth pressing. Batiks, linen blends, and high-quality printed fabrics are also popular but may behave differently when sewn or pressed. Choosing the right fabric ensures accurate piecing and long-lasting results.
​How many yards of fabric do I need for a typical quilt?
Yardage depends on your quilt’s size and pattern. Most patterns provide specific amounts for the background, focus fabrics, borders, and binding to help you plan accurately. Always check the pattern before purchasing fabric.
Should quilting cotton be prewashed?
Prewashing is optional. Most modern quilting cottons shrink very little and can be sewn unwashed, but prewashing can prevent color bleeding and shrinkage when mixing fabrics from different collections. Since McKenna’s designs are art quilts, prewashing is not required.
​How do I choose coordinating fabrics for a quilt project?
Start with a focus fabric, then select supporting fabrics that match its colors and contrast in scale. Using complementary values, tones, and textures helps create a balanced, visually appealing quilt.
Is premium quilting fabric worth the higher cost?
Yes. Premium fabrics have tighter weaves, more consistent prints, and richer dyes. These qualities make them easier to sew, more durable, and long-lasting in finished quilts.
What is fabric grain and why does it matter?
Fabric grain refers to the direction of woven threads. Cutting along the straight grain ensures pieces remain square and stable, while cutting on the bias stretches more easily and may distort blocks.
How do fat quarters, jelly rolls, and charm packs differ?
A fat quarter is typically 18" × 22", a jelly roll is a set of 2½" × WOF strips, and a charm pack contains 5" squares. These pre-cuts save time and are often color-coordinated for convenience in quilt design.
​Where can I buy high-quality quilting fabric?
Local quilt shops, designer websites, and reputable online retailers offer high-quality cotton collections. These sources ensure premium printing, consistent color, and dependable fabric quality.
How should I store fabric before using it?
Store fabric in a cool, dry space away from sunlight to prevent fading. Folding, stacking, or using comic boards keeps fabrics organized and ready for your next project.
How do I keep fabric from fraying while cutting?
Use a sharp rotary cutter and stable cutting mat, and make clean, deliberate cuts. Some fraying is normal, especially for pre-cuts, but careful handling minimizes loose threads.
Who manufactures McKenna’s fabric collections?
Her fabrics are produced by Hoffman California Fabrics, ensuring high-quality printing and premium cotton. Each collection is carefully vetted for consistency and color accuracy.
Does McKenna design her own fabric collections?
Yes, she creates the artwork, color palettes, and motifs for each line. Her designs are known for rich detail, vibrant colors, and cohesive color stories.
How long are fabric collections available before they are discontinued?
Most collections are available for 12–24 months, depending on popularity. Once retired, prints become limited, so it’s best to purchase coordinating fabrics while the line is active.
How do I read the fabric SKUs?
SKUs typically include the collection name, colorway, and design number. This helps you identify specific fabrics, order replacements, or match coordinating prints accurately.
​What width of fabric (WOF) are McKenna’s fabrics?
McKenna’s fabrics are standard quilting width, approximately 42–44" usable fabric after removing selvages. This width works well for most quilt designs.
​Does McKenna design batik fabrics?
Yes, some of her collections include batik fabrics featuring hand-dyed textures and signature motifs. They coordinate beautifully with her printed lines.
Does McKenna design digital print fabrics?
Yes. Digital printing captures fine details, gradients, and intricate artwork that may not be possible with traditional methods. These fabrics reproduce her original designs with exceptional clarity.
Does McKenna design screen printed fabrics?
Some earlier collections were screen-printed, depending on the manufacturer’s process. Newer collections are primarily digitally printed but maintain the same premium quality.
What is “Fussy Cutting”?
Fussy cutting involves cutting fabric to highlight a specific motif or design element. This technique is often used to feature a central image or pattern in a quilt block.
​Is there a “right side” and “wrong side” to quilting fabrics?
Yes. Most cottons have a vibrant “right” side and a lighter “wrong” side. Batiks may be double-sided and nearly identical, but traditional prints typically show a clear right and wrong side.
What is the thread count of McKenna’s fabrics?
Her fabrics follow the standard premium quilting cotton thread count, providing a smooth hand and durable weave for precise piecing. This ensures consistent quality across projects.
What type of material are McKenna’s fabrics made of?
All McKenna fabrics are 100% premium quilting cotton. They cut cleanly, press well, and are designed to hold up beautifully in finished quilts and long-term use.