Setting My Thrift Store Fabric Haul on FIRE! (Fiber Identification by Burn Testing & Bleach Testing)

Skip to 03:22 for the burn tests!

In an effort to keep my budding historical sewing practice cheap and sustainable, I've been collecting various fabrics from thrift stores. Now I'm attempting to figure out what these bolts of mystery fabric, used sheets, forgotten tablecloths and random offcuts are made of!

I'm using the burn test outlined by American Duchess' video which I'll link below. In addition, I'll be bleach testing some fabrics that I think might be protein-based (aka silk or wool).

So follow along if you want to learn how to tell what a fabric is made of based on burn testing and bleach testing. Or if you just want to see a weirdo set their thrift store fabric haul ON FIRE!!!

Come live the Elmo's Fire meme with me. Also if you know what the purple fabric is please let me know in the comments.

Links

Music

fiber identification

[stephaniew]

I love searching for fabric treasures at the thrift store and have even gotten my son in on the excitement of the burn test. It’s not only thrifty but I enjoy the fun of the hunt! I love that you use thrifted fabric and bedsheets for your historical sewing! ❤️ (edited to correct spelling, lol)

[hallamshire]

Excellent use of bobbie pin in the bean test!

[helenw]

So glad the algorithm pointed me in your direction - this was fun!

[sarar]

Super useful for my next thrifting adventures, thank you! Also enjoyed having your mom guest star. :)

[LixiaWinter]

Best thing about your videos is that you never know when chaos strikes

[JTMusicbox]

I’ve only ever burned nylon rope to seal it. This is very interesting! Makes sense. The results are what I would expect. This is an exciting way to test mystery fabric!

[AutisticTea]

This video really satisfies the seven year old in me who likes to burn things. It's also fun and informative. Wool curtains from now on, I think