5 Things People Don't Tell You About Crepe Back Satin

Crepe back satin fabric can be called a “two-faced fabric.” It is reversible with one satin side and the other crepe side. The front of this fabric is weaved with smooth and shiny satin ribbons while the back has a matte crepe finish. This makes the fabric extremely versatile that can be worn on both sides. I enjoy such practical fabrics because who wouldn't want a budget-friendly multi-way dress? 

Quick fact: If the crepe material is used on the front side, the fabric is called satin back crepe. 

What makes this fabric so desirable in the fashion industry is the rich, glamorous finish of the satin ribbons. It drapes the body like a dream, accentuating the curves, holding the shape of the dress, and flowing with the wearer. No doubt, celebrities love crepe back satin gowns as much as they do. 

1. Luxurious feel of the fabric

The fabric gets its silky texture from the weaving technique used, which makes the satin ribbons float above others. Crepe back satin is lightweight and easy to work with. It can be sewn either by hand or machine. 

The lightweight flowy drape of this fabric doesn’t only look good for dresses, gowns, shirts, and skirts but also makes a great material for crafts like beautiful fabric flowers and wedding favors, as well as for event decorations. 

It is classic and has stuck around as a favorite fabric for years. You can find its use in contemporary fashion, period costumes, and vintage-inspired clothing. The fabric is also easy to handle because it is wrinkle-resistant. The slippery texture doesn't let it wrinkle very often. 

2. Not a beginner's fabric

Designers or tailors who have just started out might find it very difficult to work with this slinky material. As much as the slippery texture feels good to touch, it takes years of practice to master the art of sewing it. Satin ribbons if not stitched properly, can make the garment fall flat on the wearer and don't get me started on the puckered seams, which is usually a problem with satin material. 

The weaves of crepe back satin are not compatible with needle holes and that makes it unforgiving of sewing errors. One needs to be a perfectionist, or the closest to it, to get a seamless finish on crepe back satin clothing. Most fabrics do not have such problems and hence they are easy on the tailors. 

The stitching gets more difficult if the fabric is made of actual silk, making the satin ribbons feel the silkiest. These are delicate and need extensive care so that there are no snags, thread pulls, and surface aberrations. Such errors can ruin the fabric. 

3. Precautions to be taken, what? 

To deal with the delicateness of satin ribbons, you need to practice a few precautions. Do not wear jewelry or watches while dealing with this fabric, as they will tuck on the threads. It is important to check for the crepe side and lay the fabrics in the same direction. The only way to keep the silky fabric from slipping is using a lot of setting pins. 

While cutting the satin fabric with sharp scissors, there are high chances of raveling it. Pinking shears are used to avoid that. There are also some protocols to be followed while machine sewing this fabric. Keep changing the needles and use 60/8 for lightweight fabric and 80/12 for heavier ones. The stitching length should not cross 12 to 15 stitches per inch. Be firm in holding the fabric so that the position is maintained. 

4. How to add embellishments on crepe back satin?

Any sharp object can snag the fabric, even your fingernails or cuticles. Let those big nails go before handling satin ribbons. For pasting satin fabric to an object, like a purse, use a thin layer of fabric glue. Any bubbles stuck inside should be pressed out gently. Craft glue can ruin the whole thing. If you want to add beads, rhinestones, or sequins to satin, a good idea will be to place a different fabric underneath. This will bear the weight of the embellishments and keep the satin fabric from getting damaged. 

5. How are they made? 

The satin waves are placed on the front and crepe threads are placed on the back. Both of them use highly twisted yarns in the filling direction. They can be made of silk, synthetic fiber, or blends. It is advised to handwash this fabric and dry clean so that luster can be retained. 

As the material is very breathable, it is perfect to be worn in summers. Don’t hesitate to use it for prom dresses, elegant evening gowns, and even wedding dresses. The style of crepe back satin is very “Grecian”. As it is figure-hugging, it brings out the silhouette very beautifully. 
Crepe back satin is a delicate fabric to handle and design, but this is what makes it so desirable. The intricacies needed to make something out of the satin ribbons make the wearer feel special and elegant.