Hey Cali & Co Readers! Earlier this summer I shared 3 of my favorite woven fabrics to sew for summer – but the season is long (especially with two kids under 5 in tow) and my summer-woven-sewing continues! Here are three more fabrics to try.

And for those of you thinking “Becca, it’s almost Fall!” – rest assured! The lightweight nature of these fabrics make them perfect for layering, too. Enjoy!

1: Cotton Lawn

What is it? “Lawn is designed using fine, high count yarns, which results in a silky, untextured feel.” Wikipedia

Why I love it: Lawn is light weight, crisp, and opaque. It’s great for use in structured patterns with darts and pleats. It holds it’s shape well while also allowing for free and comfortable movement.

Tips: Take advantage of the stability in this fabric! It holds up well to embellishments like this rickrack trim detail, which may add too much weight on drapier summer fabric selections.

2: Rayon Challis

What is it? “Rayon Challis  is a lightweight, semi synthetic woven fabric… comprised of natural fibers.” Indie Sew

Why I love it: There’s nothing like the slinky quality to all things rayon – especially in the summer when we need lose-fitting garments that hang comfortably away from the body – you know, without looking like a canvas sack. The natural fibers + fabulous movement = breath-ability.

Tips: Rayon Challis can be very tricky to cut on-grain. Iron, starch, and use weights while cutting to limit fabric shifting. What to know more? Here’s a whole list of extra tips!

3: Cotton Shirting

What is it? “Shirting Fabric is a broad term used to refer to a variety of fabrics, where the fabric is generally tightly woven and less sheer, making them an ideal shirt weight.” Mood

Why I love it: Cotton Shirting is super easy to work with – stable and crisp off the ironing board. It’s a breeze to cut and work with, and 100% cotton so you know it breathes!

Tips: Structure, structure, structure! Take advantage of shirting’s stability by finding patterns with plackets, collars, and shaping tools like princess seams and darts. Bonus: it’s opacity makes it perfect for a shirtdresss!

BONUS: Check out Voile ,too  – which I featured in its own blog post here.

What summer wovens are your favorite to sew? Any I’ve missed? I’d love to hear your experiences and recommendations in the comments below!