Plaid fabrics, gingham fabrics, flannel fabric, tartan fabrics and checkered fabrics

What Is Plaid & Gingham Fabric?

Plaid and gingham fabrics are plaid print and check designs formed by intersecting stripes or colored yarns. There are many types of plaid fabrics, such as traditional tartan fabric, modern checks, and madras plaid fabric. Gingham usually features an even, repeating check that creates a clean plaid look.

Common Uses of Plaid & Gingham Fabrics

Plaid and gingham fabrics are used for upholstery, soft furnishings, and table textiles. Some of our favorite ways to use plaid fabric include:

• Upholstery: Use plaid upholstery fabric for sofas, armchairs, banquettes, dining chairs, and other custom reupholstery projects.

• Curtains: Apply medium-weight checks and gingham fabric by the yard for panels, café curtains, and valances.

• Table linens: Use checked fabric for tablecloths, runners, and everyday kitchen textiles.

• Accent pillows: Sew pillows using classic plaid fabrics or bold check designs.

• Slipcovers: Choose durable plaids for slipcovers on chairs, benches, and ottomans.

How to Choose Plaid & Gingham Fabric

Choosing the right fabric depends on application, fiber, and pattern size. Here are some things to consider:

• Usage level: Select heavier plaid upholstery fabric for seating and lighter materials for curtains or décor. Outdoors, go for brands like Sunbrella.

• Fiber content: Use plaid cotton fabric for everyday décor and wool plaid fabric for cozy and warm pieces.

• Pattern size: Large checkered fabric suits big furniture pieces, while small checks look better on pillows and accents.

• Style direction: Choose traditional tartan fabric by the yard for classic rooms and madras plaid fabric for casual spaces.

• Design comparison: Think about whether you want a more complex stripe layout or a simple, even check.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between plaid and gingham?

Choosing plaid vs gingham comes down to layout and complexity. Plaid designs feature intersecting stripes of varying widths and colors. Gingham usually has an even, repeating check formed by two or three colors. Both are used for upholstery, curtains, and décor.

Can plaid fabrics be used for upholstery?

Yes, many plaid upholstery fabric options are designed for chairs, sofas, and benches. Look for heavier constructions with stable weaves and durability ratings. Lighter plaids and gingham are better suited for curtains, pillows, and table textiles.

What is tartan fabric, and how is it used?

Tartan fabric is a specific type of plaid associated with traditional patterns and color combinations. It is often used for upholstery, pillows, throws, and tailored décor. Tartan fabric by the yard allows you to cut custom lengths for furniture and soft furnishings.

Are plaid and gingham fabrics sold by the yard?

Yes, all of our fabrics are available by the yard for custom projects. You can order the exact amount of fabric you need for upholstery, curtains, tablecloths, pillows, and coordinated room schemes.