SHERPA POPULAR, PRACTICAL FABRIC
About the article
This is a digitised version of an article from The Cayman Compass's print archive. Occasionally, the digitisation process introduces transcription errors, or other problems.
See the article in its original context from November 1984.
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Copley News Service There is a great fabric out called — among other things — "Sherpa" (when it is the real thing). But, real or manmade, call it what you may, it is very popular, and at the same time practical.
On the outside there is vinyl (or, on the real stuff, leather). The underside is a soft pile similar to sheepskin. There are a few patterns available (such as Simplicity's 8709) that specify this particular fabric. But you can use other patterns if you remember these tips: When buying a pattern that does not specify "shearling fabric only," it might be wise to buy a size larger to allow for the thickness of the pile.
For seams, try an overlap seam rather than a "stitch and press open" seam. Topstitch close to seam edge and again about three-eighths inch away. The topstitching causes the pile to "peek" out, creating an attractive finish.
For cuffs, simply make the sleeves longer and turn back to reveal pile. For closings, use toggle buttons and loops; or metal hooks attached to vinyl tabs.
If your machine fusses about topstitching this fabric, use a "roller" foot and place strips of tissue between pile and machine. For this fabric the stitch should be longer (about 8-10), and the tension should be loose. For best results, use a topstitching thread and needle.
For seams you must "stitch and press open," shave the pile from the seam allowance and FINGER press open no iron! How do we keep up with fashion? Sometimes, before we can get our machine warmed up, the fashion has fled. For short-lived fad fashions, don't get carried away. Make one faddish garment in a color you can wear with several outfits. By the time the fad has faded, you have gotten your money's worth. For the more enduring fashions, choose good quality fabric in a color you can wear often. Select only those fashion styles YOU can wear.
Just because it is "in" does not mean it is "right." For example, this winter we are seeing a lot of the outsize, loosely knitted sweater. If this style is right for you, make one in a go-witheverything color and it will get you through the winter.
