Why does fabric have to be napped in some patterns?

Question

I'm making a handbag and the pattern that I'm using requires napped fabric. Does it have to be napped? If so, why?

Answer 1

It must be a pattern that shows off the nap in a way that creates interesting shadow effects. I'd go with it and see what you get! Some examples would be corduroy or a thick velvet.  Or you could look for a shot fabric. Shot, aka bi-directional,  is material that is one color in one direction and another color in the other direction. Here's a picture of shot fabric that is orange in one direction and yellow in the other.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2367/2332...

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Answer 2

I can't imagine it having to be a nap fabric.  That would mean materials like corduroy, velvet, fur, etc.  anything that has to be cut in one direction to maintain the direction of the fabric's pattern.  I've made purses out of all kinds of materials.  Mostly cotton and cotton/blends.

Answer 3

I am not sure why the fabric has to be napped.   But if you do use a napped fabric, be sure the pattern pieces all face the same way on the nap of the fabric.  If you don't the purse will look strange.

I made a skirt once with napped fabric (corduroy) and one piece was upside down nap-wise..  Had to recut and resew.

Answer 4

No it doesn't . That's the best part about making your own projects ;)))