Cotton Fabric JOANN: Types, Quilting Cotton & Buying Guide (2026)

Cotton fabric was one of the most important materials sold at JOANN stores for sewing, quilting, and craft projects. This natural fiber textile is known for its soft texture, breathable structure, and reliability for beginners. Many people learned to sew using cotton fabric by the yard from JOANN because it was affordable and easy to handle. Cotton fabric was available in quilting cotton, cotton lawn, cotton twill, muslin fabric, and cotton blend fabric options across the fabric department.

Today, many JOANN locations have closed or reduced inventory, but cotton fabric is still widely available online. Retailers like Amazon, Michaels, and Hobby Lobby now carry similar cotton fabrics used in JOANN sewing projects. In this guide, you’ll learn what cotton fabric is, what it feels like, the types of cotton fabric that existed at JOANN, how to choose the right cotton fabric, and where to buy it now. This article is designed to help both beginners and experienced crafters understand cotton fabric clearly. Cotton fabric remains one of the most widely used materials in fabrics for sewing and quilting projects.

What Is Cotton Fabric

Cotton fabric is a woven fabric made from cotton fibers that grow naturally from the cotton plant. Because it is a natural fiber material, cotton fabric is soft, breathable, and comfortable to use in many sewing projects. Most cotton fabric uses a plain weave structure, where threads cross evenly to create a durable fabric surface. This simple weave pattern gives cotton fabric its strength while keeping it easy to sew.

Cotton fabric is considered one of the most beginner-friendly textiles in the craft world. It cuts cleanly, holds its shape while stitching, and does not stretch easily like knit fabrics. These qualities make cotton fabric a reliable material for learning sewing skills. Because of this balance between softness and durability, cotton fabric continues to be a core material in fabric stores.

What Is Cotton Fabric Used For

Cotton fabric is used across many sewing, quilting, and home decor projects because it is flexible and easy to work with. The breathable fabric structure makes it comfortable for clothing, while the durable fabric surface works well for crafts and decorations. Cotton fabric can be lightweight, medium-weight, or heavy depending on how it is woven.

Common uses include:

quilting cotton projects
muslin pattern testing
broadcloth clothing
poplin shirts
cotton twill bags
organic cotton baby items
curtains and decor
craft sewing projects

Cotton fabric is often the first material beginners choose because it behaves predictably during sewing. This reliability makes it one of the most trusted fabrics in craft stores.

Types of Cotton Fabric at JOANN

JOANN stores historically sold many cotton fabric types designed for different sewing needs. Each type had a different fabric texture, fabric drape, and durability level. Understanding these differences helps users choose the correct material for their project.

Type	Weight	Best Use
Quilting cotton	Lightweight	Quilts
Cotton lawn	Lightweight	Clothing
Cotton jersey	Stretch knit	Apparel
Cotton gauze	Breathable	Baby items
Cotton twill	Medium-heavy	Bags

1) Quilting Cotton Fabric

Quilting cotton fabric JOANN inventory was one of the most popular options in the store. This fabric has a smooth surface and stable fabric grain, which makes it easy to cut and sew. Quilting cotton is usually lightweight but still durable enough for repeated washing. Many beginner sewing projects use quilting cotton because it is easy to control under a sewing machine.

2) Cotton Lawn and Voile

Cotton lawn fabric JOANN and cotton voile fabric JOANN were lightweight materials often used for clothing. These fabrics feel soft and breathable, making them comfortable for warm weather garments. Cotton lawn has a smooth finish, while voile fabric is slightly more delicate. Both fabrics drape easily and work well for simple sewing patterns.

3) Cotton Jersey Fabric

Cotton jersey fabric JOANN inventory included knit cotton materials used for clothing. Unlike woven cotton fabric, jersey stretches because of its knit construction. This makes it ideal for T-shirts and comfortable clothing projects. Cotton jersey is often blended with synthetic fibers to improve flexibility.

4) Cotton Gauze Fabric

Cotton gauze fabric JOANN options were known for their lightweight and airy structure. Gauze fabric is breathable and soft, which makes it suitable for baby blankets and summer clothing. The texture is slightly crinkled, which adds visual interest to projects. This type of cotton fabric is gentle on the skin.

5) Cotton Twill Fabric

Cotton twill fabric JOANN inventory included heavier woven cotton materials. Twill uses a diagonal weave pattern, which creates a strong and durable surface. This makes cotton twill useful for tote bags, pants, and upholstery projects. Compared to quilting cotton, twill feels thicker and more structured.

What Does Cotton Fabric Feel Like

Cotton fabric feels soft, smooth, and breathable because it is made from natural fibers. Lightweight cotton feels flexible, while heavier cotton feels more structured. The fabric texture depends on how tightly the cotton fibers are woven. Over time, cotton fabric becomes softer after washing while still staying durable.

Many people compare cotton fabric to linen or canvas, but cotton usually feels smoother and easier to sew. This combination of comfort and strength is why cotton fabric is widely used in both clothing and crafts. The fabric drape also varies depending on thickness.

How to Choose the Right Cotton Fabric

Choosing cotton fabric depends on the project you want to complete. Beginners often start with quilting cotton because it is easy to sew and inexpensive. Heavier cotton fabrics like cotton twill are better for projects that require durability. Lightweight cotton fabrics work best for clothing.

Things to consider:

fabric yardage
project type
fabric drape
preshrunk cotton availability
durability needs

Selecting the right cotton fabric weight helps ensure your sewing project lasts longer.

Beginner Tips for Using Cotton Fabric

Cotton fabric is easy to sew, but beginners still benefit from basic preparation. Washing the fabric before sewing prevents shrinking later. Ironing cotton fabric removes wrinkles and helps with accurate cutting. Using the correct needle size improves stitching results.

Beginner projects like pillow covers, tote bags, and simple quilts are great ways to practice. Cotton fabric holds its shape well, which makes it easier to guide through a sewing machine. Practicing with lightweight cotton fabric builds confidence quickly.

Beginner Project Difficulty Table

Project	Difficulty	Yards Needed	Best Cotton Type
Tote bag	Beginner	1–2 yards	Cotton twill
Pillow cover	Beginner	0.5–1 yard	Quilting cotton
Simple quilt	Intermediate	3–5 yards	Quilting cotton
Summer dress	Intermediate	2–3 yards	Cotton lawn

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is not prewashing cotton fabric before sewing. Cotton fibers can shrink slightly after the first wash. Another mistake is ignoring the fabric grain when cutting pattern pieces. Sewing with the wrong needle can also cause uneven stitches.

Avoiding these small mistakes improves sewing results. Cotton fabric is forgiving, but proper preparation helps projects look more professional. Taking time to prepare fabric always leads to better results.

Price Range and Budget Considerations

Cotton fabric prices vary depending on quality, thickness, and store location. Historically, cotton fabric JOANN inventory was considered affordable for beginners. Budget cotton fabric often costs less but may be thinner.

Store	Price per Yard
JOANN	$4–$10
Michaels cotton fabric	$5–$12
Cotton fabric Hobby Lobby	$4–$9

Cotton Fabric vs Other Fabrics

Fabric	Breathability	Strength	Best Use
Cotton fabric	High	Medium	Sewing
Canvas fabric	Medium	High	Bags
Flannel fabric	High	Medium	Blankets
Muslin fabric	High	Low	Patterns

Cotton fabric is often considered a balance between softness and durability. Compared to canvas fabric, cotton is easier to sew. Compared to muslin fabric, cotton is stronger. This balance makes cotton fabric one of the most versatile materials.

Cotton Fabric at JOANN

Cotton fabric JOANN inventory was part of the main fabric department for decades. Stores carried quilting cotton, cotton lawn, cotton twill, and organic cotton fabric collections. Many crafters visited JOANN to buy cotton fabric by the yard for sewing and quilting.

Although many JOANN stores have closed, cotton fabric remains widely available online. Michaels and Hobby Lobby now carry similar cotton fabric products. This keeps JOANN-style sewing projects possible even without physical stores.

Where to Buy Cotton Fabric Now

Cotton fabric can still be purchased easily online. Amazon offers one of the largest selections of cotton fabric by the yard. Michaels cotton fabric collections include quilting cotton and craft cotton. Cotton fabric Hobby Lobby inventory also includes affordable options.

How to Sew Cotton Fabric

Cotton fabric is beginner-friendly because it stays stable while stitching. Using a universal needle and cotton thread usually works well. Cutting along the fabric grain improves accuracy.

Helpful tools:

sewing machine
fabric scissors
pins
measuring tape

Practicing on scrap fabric before starting a project helps avoid mistakes.

Care and Maintenance

Cotton fabric is easy to care for and becomes softer after washing. Washing in cold water helps prevent shrinkage. Air drying keeps the fabric strong. Cotton fabric can be ironed on medium heat if needed.

Proper storage helps protect cotton fabric from dust and moisture. Folding fabric neatly keeps it ready for future projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did JOANN sell cotton fabric?

Yes, cotton fabric was a core product in JOANN fabric departments.

What is quilting cotton fabric?

Quilting cotton is lightweight cotton used for sewing projects.

Where can I buy cotton fabric by the yard?

Amazon, Michaels, and Hobby Lobby sell cotton fabric.

Is cotton fabric breathable?

Yes, cotton fabric is breathable because it is made from natural fiber.

Does cotton fabric shrink?

Cotton fabric may shrink slightly after washing.

What is cotton twill fabric used for?

Cotton twill is used for bags and clothing.

What is cotton fabric best used for?

Cotton fabric is best for quilting projects, everyday clothing, home decor items, and beginner sewing practice.

Does cotton fabric shrink when washed?

Yes, most cotton fabric shrinks a little unless it is pre-shrunk or labeled “pre-washed”. Shrinkage is usually 3–5% on first wash. Always pre-wash fabric in cold water to avoid surprises after sewing.