Material in the sewing world is the cloth fabric that is used.  Cotton, polyester, wool, linen, silk, satin, denim, and others are readily available today.  Many fabrics are imported some are still made in this country.  There are chains of stores here JoAnn’s, Hobby Lobby, AC Moore to name a few and many many quilt shops where a variety of material can be obtained, along with thread to compliment your projects.