Bonfire Night is just around the corner on 5 November, and there's something about crisp evenings, sparklers and warm drinks that makes us want to reach for heritage checks and cosy textures. Whether you're heading to a local fireworks display or hosting a few friends in the garden, a quick sewing project or two can make the night feel extra special. Here are our favourite autumnal fabrics, all in stock now, plus simple ideas to get you sewing.
Classic Tartan for Scarves, Shirts and Blankets
Nothing says autumn quite like a bold red tartan. Our Large Red Royal Stewart Tartan Check Polyviscose Fabric is now £6.99 per metre (was £8.99). It's a 65% polyester, 35% viscose blend at approx 190gsm, 150cm wide, and it's machine washable on a cool wash, so it's a practical choice for things you'll actually use.
Project ideas for Bonfire Night:
- A fringed tartan scarf: cut a long strip along the length of the fabric, then pull out a few threads at each short end to create a simple fringe. No hemming needed on the fringed edges.
- A check shirt or overshirt: perfect for layering under a coat on a chilly night.
- A picnic or lap blanket: hem a large rectangle, or back it with a soft fabric for extra warmth while you watch the fireworks.
- Kids' kilts and pinafores: tartan is a lovely choice for little ones' autumn outfits.
Prefer something more subtle? The Tiny Check Polyviscose Tartan Fabric in Brown (£6.99 per metre, 140cm wide) has the same easy-care blend in a small, earthy check. It's ideal for trousers, pyjamas, shirts, coat linings and cushions.
Cosy Corduroy in Warm Autumn Shades
Corduroy is having a real moment, and it's perfect for this time of year. Our Cotton Corduroy Needle & Jumbo Cord Dress Fabric is a stretch cotton mix, 150cm wide, priced at £6.99 per full metre or £5.50 per half metre.
For a bonfire-inspired palette, look at Terracotta, Brick Red, Tan Gold and Gold, or keep it neutral with Cream and Beige. Stock varies by colour and length, so check the product page for what's available when you order.
Corduroy project ideas:
- A bucket hat: a quick weekend make that keeps the chill off at the display.
- A waistcoat: a smart, cosy layer for autumn get-togethers.
- A pinafore dress or skirt: great over a jumper and tights.
- Cushion covers: add warm, tactile texture to your sofa for nights in.
Tip: corduroy has a nap (the pile runs in one direction), so cut all your pattern pieces facing the same way to keep the colour consistent.
Houndstooth Canvas for Cushions and Totes
Hosting at home? Our new Cream Houndstooth Heavy Cotton Canvas Fabric by Ottilie Stevenson is a timeless check, screen printed on a heavy, canvas craft weight cotton blend. It's £5.99 per metre (was £15.00), 140cm wide, and also available as a 10 metre length for bigger projects.
Because it has a nice firm body, it's ideal for:
- Cushion covers for a garden bench or indoor seating.
- A sturdy tote bag to carry flasks, gloves and snacks to the fireworks.
- Light upholstery, curtains and backdrops if you fancy a cosy autumn refresh.
Quick Tips for a Cosy, Safe Bonfire Night
- Layer up: tartan scarves, cord hats and blankets are easy to throw on and off as the evening gets colder.
- Keep fabric away from flames: enjoy bonfires and sparklers from a safe distance, and keep blankets, scarves and loose fabric well clear of any open flame.
- Pre-wash washable fabrics: it helps avoid surprises after the first wash, especially on items you'll wear.
- Start small: a scarf or cushion cover can easily be finished in an evening, so there's still plenty of time before 5 November.
Get Sewing Before the Fireworks Start
With a couple of weeks to go, now is the perfect time to pick up your fabric and get started. Browse the tartan, corduroy and houndstooth fabrics above, all cut from the roll and sent in one continuous length. If you have any questions about which fabric suits your project, just get in touch with the Bull Ring Fabrics team. Happy sewing, and enjoy the fireworks!
