Material Book | Denim | Atelier Brunette

THE FABRIC JOURNAL

A CLOSER LOOK AT DENIM

A denim fabric with a subtly heathered, almost patinated and inexhaustible effect.

GET YOUR NOTEBOOKS READY

Enabling you to confidently choose the ideal material.

This booklet brings together useful information on our quality fabrics.

We built and shaped it with you, by collecting your valuable feedback.

WHO IS HE?

Denim is a fabric woven in a twill weave: a dyed warp thread combined with an unbleached or white weft thread. This contrast between the two threads, combined with the twill weave, gives it its characteristic appearance and allows denim to reveal beautiful fading and patina effects over time and with washing.

Dense and structured, it offers a beautiful drape while remaining pleasant to work with.

It is suitable for both everyday pieces and more technical projects: jeans, jackets, skirts, overalls, dresses or accessories.

WHY DO WE LOVE IT SO MUCH?

For its heathered, almost weathered effect, and its eternal charm.

For its density that never compromises on comfort.

For its timelessness that survives trends and invites us to play with our wardrobes.

Atelier Brunette La Petite Robe sewing pattern in ecru denim

Atelier Brunette The Blazer Pattern in striped Denim

YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT DENIM

What is Denim?

Denim is a twill-weave fabric made of a dyed warp thread (usually indigo) and an unbleached weft thread, which gives it its characteristic heathered look and its ability to develop a patina over time.

What is the difference between denim and chambray?

Denim and Chambray are generally made of a colored warp combined with an ecru or white weft, but their construction differs: Denim is woven in a twill weave, while Chambray is woven in a plain weave.

Denim therefore has a more pronounced structure and good hold, while Chambray offers a softer, lighter, and more breathable feel. Denim is suitable for structured pieces (jeans, jackets), and Chambray for fluid pieces (shirts, lightweight dresses).

Is the Atelier Brunette denim stretchy?

No, our denim is a 100% cotton fabric that softens with washing.

How to prepare and care for indigo denim before sewing?

Before sewing indigo denim, soak the fabric overnight in lukewarm water with a glass of coarse salt, then wash it alone at 30°C on a delicate cycle and air dry. After 2 to 3 washes, the fabric stabilizes and develops its characteristic patina.

Is Atelier Brunette denim suitable for sewing beginners?

Yes, the softer Denim versions (Soft Denim) are suitable for sewing beginners; the thicker varieties (Heavy Brut) require a well-adjusted machine and are better suited for sewists comfortable with heavier weights.