Sweatshirt fleece is the nostalgic cozy fabric you remember from your favorite hoodie - smooth on the outside, soft and fleecy on the inside. Whether you're making classic sweatshirts, comfortable joggers, or cozy pajamas, this easy-to-sew fabric offers warmth, structure, and versatility for all ages.
With minimal stretch and a stable structure, sweatshirt fleece is beginner-friendly and perfect for loose-fitting garments. The fleecy interior traps warm air while wicking moisture, making it ideal for athletic wear, loungewear, and cooler weather clothing.
What is Sweatshirt Fleece Fabric?
Sweatshirt fleece is a knit fabric characterized by its smooth right side and soft, fleecy wrong side. This construction creates a comfortable fabric that feels cozy against the skin while presenting a clean, professional exterior. The fleece backing provides warmth and softness, making it perfect for casual, comfortable garments.
Typically made from cotton/poly blends or cotton lycra, sweatshirt fleece offers minimal stretch compared to other knits, making it easier to cut, handle, and sew. This stability also gives garments structure, perfect for items like hoodies and sweatpants that need to hold their shape.
Why Choose Sweatshirt Fleece?
- Easy to Sew - Low stretch makes it beginner-friendly and simple to handle
- Cozy Comfort - Soft, fleecy interior feels great against skin
- Warm & Breathable - Traps warm air while wicking moisture
- Nostalgic Appeal - The classic fabric of hoodies and athletic wear
- Versatile for All Ages - Suitable for babies, kids, teens, and adults
- Structured Drape - Holds shape in loose-fitting garments
- Durable - Withstands regular wear and washing
- Budget-Friendly - Affordable yardage for larger projects
Sweatshirt Fleece vs. French Terry
While both fabrics have a smooth exterior and textured interior, sweatshirt fleece is thicker and warmer than French Terry. Sweatshirt fleece has a brushed, fuzzy interior while French Terry has loops. Sweatshirt fleece is best for cooler weather and loose-fitting garments, while French Terry works well for year-round wear and fitted styles.
What Can You Make with Sweatshirt Fleece?
Sweatshirt fleece is perfect for cozy, casual garments:
- Classic hoodies and pullover sweatshirts
- Zip-up hoodies and cardigans
- Joggers and sweatpants
- Loose-fitting pajamas and loungewear
- Athletic apparel and workout wear
- Crop tops and styled sweatshirts
- Baby and toddler clothing
- Blankets and cozy accessories
Looking for sewing patterns? Check out these sweatshirt fleece-friendly patterns from Peek-a-Boo Pattern Shop:
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweatshirt Fleece
Does sweatshirt fleece shrink?
Yes, sweatshirt fleece is notorious for shrinking, especially cotton/poly blends. Always pre-wash and dry your fabric before cutting to get any shrinkage out. Consider buying slightly more yardage than you need to account for potential shrinkage. Wash separately the first time as it will shed lint.
What's the difference between sweatshirt fleece and regular fleece?
Sweatshirt fleece has a smooth exterior and fleece backing, while regular fleece is typically brushed on both sides. Sweatshirt fleece is a knit fabric used for garments, while anti-pill fleece is often used for blankets and outerwear. Sweatshirt fleece has a more structured appearance.
Is sweatshirt fleece sold as a tube or bolt?
Sweatshirt fleece can be sold either way. If you receive it as a tube, simply cut along one fold line to lay it flat for cutting. This is common for this type of fabric and nothing to worry about!
What needle should I use for sweatshirt fleece?
Use a ballpoint needle - size 75/11 for lighter weight sweatshirt fleece or 90/14 for heavier versions. The ballpoint tip prevents damage to the knit structure. Replace your needle if you experience skipped stitches.
Why does my sweatshirt fleece hem roll up?
The fleece backing can cause rolling. Use a minimum 1" hem to prevent this. A coverstitch machine works beautifully for sweatshirt fleece hems. You can also use a twin needle or zigzag stitch on a regular machine. Avoid serging the hem before folding as it may stretch.
Do I need a walking foot for sweatshirt fleece?
While not absolutely necessary, a walking foot is highly recommended. It helps grip the thicker fabric and prevents it from getting jammed in the feed dogs. If your fabric is very thick, you may also want to reduce presser foot tension.
What stitch should I use for sweatshirt fleece?
Use a stretch stitch or narrow zigzag stitch. A serger gives a clean professional finish. For hems, use a stretch stitch, zigzag, twin needle, or coverstitch. The minimal stretch in sweatshirt fleece makes it more forgiving than other knits.
Does sweatshirt fleece have a nap or direction?
Yes! Because of the fleece backing, sweatshirt fleece has a directional pile that feels different when stroked in different directions. Lay out all pattern pieces with the nap running the same direction for a consistent appearance. Keep a lint roller handy while cutting!
Do I need to account for "turn of cloth" with sweatshirt fleece?
Yes, because sweatshirt fleece is thicker than many knits, consider adding ¼" length to any folds in your pattern (like hems or cuffs). This accounts for the thickness of fabric consumed when folding. This prevents hems from appearing shorter than intended.
Can I use sweatshirt fleece for baby clothes?
Absolutely! Sweatshirt fleece is soft, warm, and comfortable for babies and children. Look for cotton/lycra or cotton/poly blends. For organic options, check out our organic sweatshirt fleece collection.
Tips for Sewing with Sweatshirt Fleece
- Always pre-wash - Essential to prevent shrinkage in finished garments
- Wash separately first time - Sweatshirt fleece sheds lint initially
- Use a ballpoint needle - Size 75/11 for lighter, 90/14 for heavier fleece
- Consider a walking foot - Prevents fabric from jamming and helps with thick layers
- Watch your nap direction - Keep fleece pile running same direction on all pieces
- Use rotary cutter - Makes straight cuts easier than scissors on thick fabric
- Sharpen blades after - Thick fabrics dull rotary blades quickly
- Use 1" minimum hem - Prevents rolling from fleece backing
- Add for turn of cloth - ¼" extra length at folds accounts for thickness
- Keep lint roller handy - Makes cleanup easier while cutting and sewing
Best Fabrics to Pair with Sweatshirt Fleece
Complete your sweatshirt fleece projects with these complementary fabrics:
- Rib Knit - Perfect for cuffs, waistbands, and neckbands
- French Terry - Lighter weight alternative for layering
- Cotton Lycra - For contrasting details and hoods
- Sherpa - Extra cozy lining option
- Minky - Luxurious alternative for cozy garments
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Why Buy Sweatshirt Fleece from KnitFabric.com?
- Fast Shipping: Flat rate shipping on all orders
- Quality Guarantee: Premium sweatshirt fleece tested for softness and durability
- Wide Selection: Solids, prints, organic options, and sherpa-backed varieties
- Beginner-Friendly: Easy-to-sew fabric perfect for all skill levels
- Expert Support: Our experienced team can help with fabric selection and project planning
- Affordable Pricing: Great prices on quality sweatshirt fleece by the yard
- Regular Restocks: Popular solid colors restocked frequently
Shop our full collection of sweatshirt fleece fabric by the yard and create your next cozy, comfortable project today!
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