Before cutting into your final fabric, it is smart to sew a test version of your garment. This is often called a mockup or muslin. Testing allows you to check fit, construction, and overall proportions before committing to expensive materials.
For non-stretch garments:
- Muslin fabric
- Inexpensive cotton
- Broadcloth
- Any woven fabric with a similar weight to your final fabric
If you are sewing structured garments like corsets or working with sturdy vinyl, try testing with canvas or thick muslin. This helps mimic the firmness and structure of heavier materials.
For stretch garments:
- Basic cotton spandex jersey
- Inexpensive polyester spandex blends
- Discount athletic knit
- Clearance stretch fabrics
For stretch patterns, match the stretch percentage as closely as possible to your final fabric. The closer the stretch and recovery, the more accurate your fit test will be.
Testing first helps prevent costly mistakes and gives you confidence before cutting specialty fabrics like metallic spandex, stretch velvet, vinyl, faux leather, or structured stage materials.