I bought this for the fabric, I wished to make some reusable grocery bags in a few different styles and sizes. The fabric is heavy enough. There are joins and such, this isn't premium yardage and I expected such. Treat like you are sewing heavyweight denim, and use a sewing machine needle meant for that. Also use jean thread. Washing does soften the feel some. Use template style patterns, do not pin a pattern to the fabric, lay the pattern down, weigh it down, and trace the cutting line next to the template edge. This is a thicker fabric, make sure to allow plenty if folding over a hem. Do edge finish, this will fray. I recommend this as a source for canvas for crafting. The size compared to price is pretty good. I have not tried to dye or stain this fabric.