Ruby Red Melange Viscose Linen Blend – Lightweight Dress Fabric

Red with depth. Ruby Mélange has a vibrant red that isn’t flat, because the mélange effect mixes slightly different tones through the cloth, so it looks warm, rustic and a little bit lived-in. It’s the kind of red that feels rich without feeling loud.

Two fibres, two jobs

The viscose gives the fabric a smooth, silky feel and a fluid drape. The linen adds natural texture, with its characteristic slub and a slightly crisper feel. Together they make a fabric that’s lightweight and breathable, comfortable to wear and elegant to look at.

What it’s like to sew and wear

You get the best of both. It drapes well enough for flowing styles, and it has enough body to hold a shape in a lightweight blazer or a pair of trousers. As with most linen blends, it can crease a little as you wear it, which is part of the relaxed look. The wide width leaves plenty of room to cut, which helps with full skirts, wide legs and long dresses.

What to make

• Dresses: flowing midi dresses, shirt dresses and wrap dresses
• Jackets: lightweight blazers and unlined summer jackets
• Tops: relaxed tops, shirts and boxy blouses
• Trousers: wide-leg trousers and relaxed styles

Sewing tips:

• Wash gently before cutting, as both fibres can shrink
• Choose a sharp, medium needle and a medium stitch length
• Neaten seams to stop fraying, with French seams, an overlocker, a zigzag stitch or bias binding
• Press on a medium heat, on the reverse, while slightly damp
• Wash it separately the first time, as strong reds can bleed

• Width: 143cm/56" (approx)
• Composition: 76% Viscose, 24% Linen
• Fabric Type: Viscose linen blend, mélange
• Colour: Red

✔Machine washable at 30°C or lower, on a gentle cycle
✔Wash separately the first time, then with similar colours
✔Do not use bleach
✔Do not tumble dry
✔Dry flat or line dry in the shade
✔Iron on a medium heat, on the reverse
✔Always test a small sample first to check your preferred washing method

Viscose and linen are both plant-based fibres, and this blend is made to be worn and washed for years. Choosing a well-made fabric in a colour you’ll love, and caring for it gently, helps your handmade wardrobe last.