Fabric Width: 140cm

Calico is perhaps one of the most versatile fabrics used today, with an extensive array of purposes.

Calico is an unbleached, unfinished fabric made from cotton fibres. It is often described as a half-processed cotton cloth, because it’s typically sold as a “loomstate fabric,” meaning it’s sold as-is after its final stitch is woven.

As a result, this plain weave textile usually has a slightly beige or grey tinge—and you may even be able to spot tiny flecks of cotton seeds in the final product. It’s a bit heavier than muslin, but not as weighty as canvas or denim; a common use for calico has been for designers’ toile, or for the mock-ups made before final garments are crafted in more expensive fabrics.

Because calico fabric can be sturdy and durable, it’s often used for items such as bags, aprons, curtains and furnishings. Those items will see daily wear and tear, but need to remain strong and withstand some abrasion and dirt.