Blankets made of cotton have been one of the most popular kinds in the world largely due to the comfort and versatility they can provide. Muslin blankets, on the other hand, are also a popular choice of fabric. Muslin blankets though are used for such specific purposes.
Although similar in nature, cotton and muslin blankets made from their fabrics are often used for different sets of things. As for the quilting world, cotton has been the fabric of choice, but muslin blankets have been highly used as well because of their durability and high-quality characteristics.
Quilters who are thinking of trying off and exploring other fabrics for their next quilting project should understand the different takes on cotton blankets and muslin blankets.
Cotton vs. Muslin Blankets Made from Their Fibers
Benefits, Drawbacks, and Uses of Cotton Blanket Fabrics
Cotton blankets have been made from cotton fibers that came from the natural fibers of the cotton plant. The cotton plant grows also anywhere over and around the world. The cotton plant is harvested as in any crop. The cotton fibers are then extracted, cleaned, and dyed before they are woven into blankets just like a muslin blanket.
Cotton is well-known for its versatility and the fact that it is comfortable to use. The standard for quilting is a fabric made from 100% cotton as in quilter’s weight cotton in particular. Mostly, t-shirts are made of cotton, which makes it an ideal material for quilting–see size chart for a t-shirt quilt.
A lot of consumers have chosen products made from cotton over other blanket materials is not for no reason. Here are some reasons why cotton blankets are preferred even over muslin blankets. And that is because cotton can be highly absorbent. Cotton fabrics can be both breathable and durable – thus their popularity for blankets and beddings. Cotton can be dyed in a wide range of colors and patterns as well, which makes it convenient for any homeowner. For quilters, quilter’s cotton can be found in a wide selection of styles and patterns making it clearer and simpler to bring visions to life.
Using cotton blankets is not without drawbacks. Although cotton offers many advantages for quilting, other sewing projects, and bedroom blankets and bedding, there can be some drawbacks to consider. Remember, that cotton blankets tend to shrink, thus it can be important to wash the cotton fabric properly. Especially for quilting projects, it is important to wash it before starting. Also, the color may bleed from the blanket and can cause problems. Washing separately before using may help with this drawback. Cotton has been known for its pilling and bearding disadvantage. For quilters and homeowners alike, this can affect the blankets’ appearance over time and may not meet the aesthetics they often like to maintain.
There can be a lot of uses for cotton, as mentioned above because it is a versatile fabric. It can not only be used for cotton blankets, but can be used for pillows, linens, and several articles of clothing. It can also be used for patchwork, battling, and lining for quilters. No wonder a lot of consumers prefer fabrics made from cotton owing to its wide availability and many uses in general.
Benefits, Drawbacks, and Uses of Muslin Blanket Fabrics
The muslin fabric to make muslin blankets is made from cotton as well. It is a finer grade of cotton though that is woven to make a lighter, thinner cloth. The muslin fiber has an expensive and rich history dating back to ancient times.
In those olden times, the muslin fabric and muslin blankets thereof were highly valuable and highly priced – even equally valuable than gold itself – and were traded all over the world including the country of India.
To date, muslin cloth and muslin blankets are used in wide abundance – from fields like medical care to photography.
While cotton and muslin fabrics may be similar in some ways, they are still their fabrics and have distinct characteristics. Muslin blankets and fabric are unique from cotton blankets and fabric because of their lighter and more breathable quality. Muslin can be an ideal fabric for summer clothing and has been gaining popularity around the globe. Even muslin blankets that are made with medium and thicker weights still turn out to be much lighter in weight compared to cotton. Although some kinds of muslin manufacturers have incorporated synthetic materials into their products, remember that true muslin is made from 100% natural cotton materials. Choose brands that not only make great muslin blanket products but also advocate muslin made from 100% natural and organic materials. Muslin blankets are soft, and comfortable and can be versatile in their use.
Just like cotton, drawbacks for muslin blankets do exist. Muslin blankets made from muslin fibers come in a tad-limited color selection; consumers may notice this and may be turned off by muslin blankets altogether although it can be a little issue to some. Muslin blankets are not as easy to care for as blankets made from cotton fabric. Unlike other less absorbent fabrics, muslin blankets can be highly absorbent making it difficult or nearly impossible for stains to be removed. To counter this, there have been laundry products highly competent to remove stains from muslin blankets. For muslin blankets, the color transfer can be a problem. Choose products that guarantee lesser or no color transfers so that way, consumers can be more at ease. Wrinkling is another prevalent problem with muslin blankets and clothing. Avoiding wringing muslin blankets and clothes when washing can help minimize wrinkling as well as ironing them.
While the cotton fabric is well-known for its clothing level standards, muslin blankets and clothes are usually used for other purposes. Some of these specific uses for muslin blankets are painting canvases and home decoration making. Muslin cloth is also utilized as test clothes for clothing patterns design. In the medical practice, muslin blankets and cloths are often utilized as drapes and sterile dressings. Muslin cloth is also a great substitute for tulle fabric. Less known and uncommon uses for muslin cloths are as a filter for brewing and distilling, backdrops for photography, backing or lining for quilts, and as cleaning cloths.
When Can Muslin Blankets Be Perfect Over Cotton Ones?
A lot of consumers and homeowners prefer muslin because of its simplicity. When going for that minimalistic and natural look, muslin may be a great fit for the bedroom space. Unbleached muslin blankets in particular can pair well with so many colors. Thus, thinking twice about incorporating it into the bedroom design and space will not be a problem as it will virtually complement anything. Muslin blankets can also be a great way to break up a bedroom’s busy pattern or bright colors.
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