How to Sew with Scrubs Confetti Cotton Solid
By Crosscut Sewing Co.: Online Sewing Classes and Kits for Kids | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: How-to Guides
Learn practical steps for sewing with Scrubs Confetti Cotton Solid from Riley Blake Designs, including prep, cutting, stitching, and care tips.
Quick Answer
To get the best results with Scrubs Confetti Cotton Solid, prewash it, use a sharp needle, and press seams as you go. This 100% cotton fabric is forgiving for beginners and works well for quilts, apparel, and accessories.
Why Prewashing Matters for This Cotton
Scrubs Confetti Cotton Solid is a 100% cotton fabric, and cotton can shrink slightly when washed. Prewashing in cold water and drying on low helps prevent surprises after your project is finished, especially if you plan to make wearable items or quilts that will be laundered frequently.
Choosing the Right Needle and Thread
A universal needle in size 80/12 works well for most cotton sewing. If you are quilting multiple layers, a sharper needle like a quilting needle can help. Use a good quality all-purpose polyester thread, which has a bit of give and won't break easily.
Avoid using dull needles—they can cause skipped stitches or pull the fabric. Change your needle at the start of each new project.
Handling the Fabric Width
This fabric is 43 to 44 inches wide, which is standard for quilting cotton. When cutting large pieces, make sure your cutting mat and ruler are long enough to handle the width without shifting. If you are working with a smaller mat, fold the fabric carefully and press it flat before cutting to avoid distortion.
Step-by-Step Sewing Process
- Prewash and Press: Machine wash the fabric in cold water and tumble dry on low. Press with a warm iron before cutting to remove wrinkles and ensure accurate cuts. Always prewash to avoid shrinkage after your project is complete.
- Cut Your Pieces: Use a rotary cutter, a sharp blade, and a clear ruler on a self-healing mat. Cut on a flat surface and double-check measurements before cutting. A dull blade can stretch or fray the fabric—replace it if you notice resistance.
- Pin and Stitch: Pin pieces together with fine pins or use clips to avoid shifting. Sew with a straight stitch (2.5 mm length) and a 1/4-inch seam allowance for quilting, or 5/8 inch for apparel. Test your stitch on a scrap piece first to adjust tension and avoid puckering.
- Press Seams: Press seams open or to one side as your pattern directs. Use a hot iron with steam for crisp results, but avoid stretching the fabric while pressing. Pressing (not ironing back and forth) prevents distortion and keeps seams flat.
- Finish and Care: Finish raw edges with a zigzag stitch or serger to prevent fraying. After completing your project, wash in cold water and tumble dry low to maintain the fabric's softness. Always follow the care instructions to keep your finished item looking its best.
Product Facts
- Scrubs Confetti Cotton™ Solid from Riley Blake Designs: Scrubs Confetti Cotton Solid is 100% cotton and measures 43 to 44 inches wide. The standard width makes it easy to follow most quilting and apparel patterns without extra piecing, and the cotton content gives a soft, breathable hand.
Scrubs Confetti Cotton™ Solid from Riley Blake Designs
