Fabric Glossary A-D

A B C D

Term: Abrasion Resistance

• Definition: A fabric's ability to withstand wear from rubbing.
• Key Characteristics:
• Measured by the number of rubs a fabric can endure before showing wear.   
• Influenced by fiber type, yarn structure, and fabric construction.   
• High abrasion resistance indicates durability.   
• Common Uses:
• Upholstery fabrics.   
• Carpets.
• Workwear.   
• Outdoor clothing.
• Care Instructions:
• Generally, fabrics with high abrasion resistance are durable and require standard care.   
• Avoid excessive rubbing during cleaning.
• Follow specific care labels for the garment or fabric.

Term: Acrylic

• Definition: A synthetic fiber obtained from chemical substances, known for its wool-like feel.
• Key Characteristics:
• Lightweight and warm.   
• Resistant to sunlight and weathering.   
• Good drape and resilience.   
• Can be prone to pilling.   
• Low moisture absorbency.   
• Common Uses:
• Sweaters and knitwear.   
• Blankets and throws.
• Fake fur.
• Outdoor fabrics.
• Care Instructions:
• Machine wash on a gentle cycle.   
• Tumble dry on low heat or air dry.   
• Avoid high heat, as it can cause shrinkage or damage.
• Use a lint brush or fabric shaver to remove pills.

Term: Animal Fibers

• Definition: Natural fibers derived from animals, made up of protein, such as silk and wool.
• Key Characteristics:
• Generally warm and insulating.   
• Vary in texture and luster (e.g., wool is warm and crimped; silk is smooth and lustrous).   
• Can be prone to damage from moths and insects.   
• Absorb moisture.   
• Common Uses:
• Wool: Sweaters, blankets, carpets.   
• Silk: Dresses, scarves, lingerie.   
• Cashmere: Luxury garments.   
• Leather: jackets, shoes, furniture.
• Care Instructions:
• Wool: Hand wash or dry clean; avoid agitation and high heat.
• Silk: Hand wash or dry clean; avoid bleach and direct sunlight.
• Cashmere: Hand wash or dry clean; avoid wringing or twisting.
• Leather: Clean with a specialized leather cleaner; condition regularly.

Term: Asbestos

• Definition: A mineral fiber used in fire-resistant clothing.
• Key Characteristics:
• Highly heat-resistant and fireproof.
• Strong and durable.
• Can be hazardous if inhaled.
• Common Uses:
• Firefighters
• Due to health risks, specialized handling is required. In most modern applications safer alternatives are now used.
• Items containing asbestos, should be handled only by specially trained professionals.   
• Asbestos has now been heavily regulated, and its use is greatly diminished.

Term: Abaca (Manila Hemp)

• Definition: Extracted from the leaf sheath of the abaca plant (Musa textilis).
• Key Characteristics:
• Very strong and durable.
• Resistant to saltwater.   
• Lightweight and flexible.
• Coarse texture.
• Common Uses:
• Ropes and cordage.
• Specialty papers (tea bags, filter paper).   
• Textiles and handicrafts.
• Matting and rugs.
• Care Instructions:
• Generally durable, but avoid prolonged exposure to moisture when used in textile form.
• Clean with a damp cloth or sponge.
• For ropes, allow the air to dry completely.

Term: Alpaca

• Definition: Fleece of alpacas.
• Key Characteristics:
• Soft and silky.
• Warm and insulating.
• Naturally hypoallergenic.
• Comes in a wide range of natural colors.
• Stronger than sheep wool.
• Common Uses:
• Sweaters and knitwear.
• Scarves and shawls.
• Blankets and throws.
• Outerwear.
• Care Instructions:
• Hand wash or dry clean.
• Use cool water and a mild detergent.
• Lay flat to dry.
• Avoid wringing or twisting.

Term: Angora (Rabbit)

• Definition: Fur of Angora rabbits.
• Key Characteristics:
• Exceptionally soft and fluffy.
• Warm and lightweight.
• Delicate and requires gentle care.
• Can shed.
• Common Uses:
• Sweaters and cardigans.
• Scarves and hats.
• Baby clothing.
• Decorative trims.
• Care Instructions:
• Hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent.
• Roll in a towel to remove excess water.
• Lay flat to dry.
• Brush gently with a soft brush.
• Dry cleaning is also recommended.

Term: Acetate

• Definition: A manufactured fiber made from cellulose acetate, a derivative of wood pulp or cotton linters.
• Key Characteristics:
• Smooth and lustrous.
• Drapes well.
• Relatively inexpensive.
• Poor abrasion resistance.
• Can be damaged by acetone.
• Common Uses:
• Linings.
• Dresses and blouses.
• Ribbons and decorative trims.
• Cigarette filters.
• Care Instructions:
• Hand wash or dry clean.
• Use cool water.
• Avoid bleach.
• Iron on a low setting.

B

Term: Bias

• Definition: The diagonal line across a woven fabric, at a 45-degree angle to the grain.
• Key Characteristics:
• Has the most stretch in a woven fabric.
• Drapes and conforms to curves.
• Edges are prone to fraying.
• Common Uses:
• Binding edges.
• Creating flowing garments.
• Adding decorative trims.
• Creating shaped garment sections.
• Care Instructions:
• Handle with care to prevent stretching.
• Finish raw edges to prevent fraying.
• Follow care instructions for the fabric itself.

Term: Blend

• Definition: A fabric made from two or more different types of fibers.
• Key Characteristics:
• Combines the properties of the constituent fibers.
• Can enhance strength, durability, comfort, or appearance.
• Can reduce cost compared to using a single expensive fiber.
• Common Uses:
• Everyday clothing.
• Upholstery fabrics.
• Industrial textiles.
• Any textile where a combination of fiber properties is desired.
• Care Instructions:
• Follow the care instructions for the most delicate fiber in the blend.
• Generally, blends are easier to care for than pure fibers.

Term: Basket Weave

• Definition: A variation of plain weave where multiple warp and weft yarns are interlaced as one. Creates a textured, basket-like appearance. Example: Canvas, monk's cloth.
• Key Characteristics:
• Textured surface.
• Durable and strong.
• Looser weave than plain weave.
• Can be bulky.
• Common Uses:
• Canvas bags and tents.
• Upholstery.
• Decorative fabrics.
• Heavy-duty workwear.
• Care Instructions:
• Varies depending on the fiber content.
• Generally, durable and easy to care for.
• May shrink if made from natural fibers.

Term: Bamboo

• Definition: Fibers are extracted from the pulp of bamboo plants (various species).
• Key Characteristics:
• Soft and silky texture.
• Naturally antibacterial.
• Highly breathable and moisture-wicking.
• Eco-friendly and renewable.
• Comfortable and gentle on the skin.
• Naturally odor-resistant.
• Common Uses:
• Clothing (especially underwear and socks).
• Bedding.
• Towels.
• diapers.
• Care Instructions:
• Machine wash on a gentle cycle.
• Tumble dry on low heat or air dry.
• Avoid bleach.

Term: Burlap (Jute or Hemp)

• Definition: Typically made from jute or hemp fibers.
• Key Characteristics:
• Coarse and rough texture.
• Strong and durable.
• Biodegradable.
• Relatively inexpensive.
• Common Uses:
• Bags and sacks.
• Crafts and decorations.
• Landscaping fabric.
• Packaging.
• Care Instructions:
• Spot clean or hand wash.
• Air dry.
• May shed fibers.

Term: Batiste

• Definition: Typically made from cotton or linen, but can also be made from synthetic fibers.
• Key Characteristics:
• Lightweight and sheer.
• Soft and smooth.
• Fine weave.
• Delicate.
• Common Uses:
• Baby clothing.
• Handkerchiefs.
• Lingerie.
• Sheer curtains.
• Care Instructions:
• Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle.
• Use cool water.
• Air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
• Iron on low heat.

Term: Broadcloth

• Definition: Typically made from cotton or a cotton blend, but can also be wool or synthetic fibers.
• Key Characteristics:
• Smooth and tightly woven.
• Fine ribs or crosswise ridges.
• Durable and versatile.
• Good for printing.
• Common Uses:
• Shirts and blouses.
• Dresses.
• Bed linens.
• Quilting.
• Care Instructions:
• Machine wash and dry.
• Iron as needed.
• Follow care instructions for the fiber content.

Term: Brocade

• Definition: Can be made from various fibers, including silk, cotton, or synthetic blends.
• Key Characteristics:
• Woven with raised patterns.
• Rich and luxurious appearance.
• Often features metallic threads.
• Heavy weight.
• Common Uses:
• Formal wear.
• Upholstery.
• Drapery.
• Decorative pillows.
• Care Instructions:
• Dry clean recommended.
• Handle with care to avoid snagging.
• Store carefully to prevent damage to raised patterns.

C

Term: Calendaring

• Definition: A finishing process that smooths and polishes fabric by passing it through heated rollers.
• Key Characteristics:
• Creates a smooth, lustrous surface.
• Can flatten fabric and reduce thickness.
• Can impart a temporary or permanent finish.
• Can create embossed or patterned effects.
• Common Uses:
• Cotton and linen fabrics.
• Silk and synthetic fabrics.
• Paper and plastic films.
• Care Instructions:
• Depends on the fabric and finish.
• Some calendared finishes are temporary and may be lost with washing.
• Follow care label instructions.

Term: Cellulose

• Definition: The main structural component of plant cell walls, used to produce regenerated fibers.
• Key Characteristics:
• Natural polymer.
• Provides strength and structure to plants.
• Can be processed into fibers like rayon, lyocell, and acetate.
• Biodegradable.
• Common Uses:
• Rayon, lyocell, and acetate fibers.
• Paper and cardboard.
• Cellophane.
• Care Instructions:
• Depends on the specific regenerated fiber.
• Follow care instructions for the fabric.

Term: Composition of Fabric

• Definition: The types of fibers used in a fabric and their percentage if it's a blend.
• Key Characteristics:
• Determines the fabric's properties (strength, drape, comfort, etc.).
• Affects care requirements.
• Important for labeling and consumer information.
• Common Uses:
• All textiles.
• Understanding fabric performance.
• Determining proper cleaning methods.
• Care Instructions:
• Follow the care instructions based on the fiber composition.
• Pay attention to the most delicate fiber in a blend.

Term: Course

• Definition: A horizontal row of loops in a knitted fabric.
• Key Characteristics:
• Determines the width of knitted fabric.
• Affects fabric stretch and drape.
• Works in conjunction with Wales(vertical rows of loops) to create knitted fabric.
• Common Uses:
• All knitted garments.
• Hosiery.
• Sweaters.
• Care Instructions:
• Depends on the fiber content.
• Knitted fabrics can be prone to stretching or shrinking.
• Follow care label instructions.

Term: Cotton

• Definition: A natural vegetable fiber made of cellulose, a staple fiber. Grows in a protective ball around the seeds of the cotton plant (genus Gossypium).
• Key Characteristics:
• Soft and comfortable.
• Breathable and absorbent.
• Versatile and easy to dye.
• Relatively strong.
• Common Uses:
• Widely available and affordable.
• Comfortable for everyday wear.
• Can be made into a variety of textiles.
• Care Instructions:
• Machine washable.
• Can shrink if exposed to high heat.
• Iron as needed.

Term: Coir (Coconut Fiber)

• Definition: Extracted from the fibrous husk of coconuts (Cocos nucifera).
• Key Characteristics:
• Strong and durable.
• Naturally resistant to rot and saltwater.
• Coarse texture.
• Common Uses:
• Mats and rugs.
• Ropes and cordage.
• Geotextiles.
• Potting soil.
• Care Instructions:
• Durable and easy to care for.
• Shake or brush to remove dirt.
• Can be rinsed with water.

Term: Cashmere

• Definition: The fine, soft wool fibers obtained from the undercoat of cashmere goats.
• Key Characteristics:
• Extremely soft and luxurious.
• Warm and lightweight.
• Delicate and prone to pilling.
• Expensive.
• Common Uses:
• Sweaters and scarves.
• Shawls and wraps.
• Luxury garments.
• Care Instructions:
• Hand wash or dry clean.
• Use cool water and a mild detergent.
• Lay flat to dry.
• Avoid wringing or twisting.

Term: Canvas

• Definition: A heavy, plain-woven fabric typically made from cotton or linen.
• Key Characteristics:
• Strong and durable.
• Plain weave.
• Can be treated for water resistance.
• Relatively stiff.
• Common Uses:
• Tents and awnings.
• Bags and backpacks.
• Painting surfaces.
• Upholstery.
• Care Instructions:
• Machine washable or spot clean.
• May shrink if made from natural fibers.

Term: Chambray

• Definition: A plain-woven fabric with a colored warp yarn and a white weft yarn, giving it a subtle heathered appearance.
• Key Characteristics:
• Lightweight and breathable.
• Soft and comfortable.
• Similar to denim but lighter.
• Plain weave.
• Common Uses:
• Shirts and dresses.
• Casual wear.
• Lightweight workwear.
• Care Instructions:
• Machine washable.
• Iron as needed.

Term: Chiffon

• Definition: A lightweight, sheer fabric with a plain weave.
• Key Characteristics:
• Delicate and flowing.
• Transparent or semi-transparent.
• Can be made from silk, nylon, or polyester.
• Prone to snags.
• Common Uses:
• Evening wear.
• Scarves and shawls.
• Lingerie.
• Decorative overlays.
• Care Instructions:
• Hand wash or dry clean.
• Handle with care.
• Avoid rough surfaces.

Term: Chintz

• Definition: A glazed cotton fabric, often printed with floral patterns.
• Key Characteristics:
• Glazed finish.
• Printed patterns.
• Can be shiny or matte.
• Can be made of cotton or blends.
• Common Uses:
• Upholstery.
• Drapery.
• Home decor.
• Care Instructions:
• Dry clean recommended.
• Avoid excessive moisture.

Term: Corduroy

• Definition: A ribbed fabric with a distinctively raised "wale" or pile.
• Key Characteristics:
• Ribbed texture.
• Wale size varies.
• Durable and warm.
• Often made from cotton.
• Common Uses:
• Pants and jackets.
• Upholstery.
• Children's clothing.
• Care Instructions:
• Machine washable.
• Brush to remove lint.
• Iron on the reverse side.

Term: Crepe

• Definition: A fabric with a crinkled or pebbled surface.
• Key Characteristics:
• Crinkled texture.
• Can be made from various fibers (silk, wool, synthetic).
• Good drape.
• Varies in weight.
• Common Uses:
• Dresses and blouses.
• Suits.
• Scarves.
• Care Instructions:
• Depends on the fiber content.
• Hand wash or dry clean recommended for delicate crepes.
• Iron on a low setting.

D

Term: Dobby Weave

• Definition: A weave that produces small, geometric patterns. Created on a dobby loom, which controls a limited number of warp yarns. Example: Piqué, dotted Swiss.
• Key Characteristics:
• Small, repeating geometric patterns.
• Textured surface.
• Can create intricate designs.
• More complex than plain or twill weaves.
• Common Uses:
• Dress shirts.
• Table linens.
• Upholstery.
• Decorative fabrics.
• Care Instructions:
• Follow care instructions for the fiber content.
• Generally durable and easy to care for.
• Iron as needed.

Term: Denier

• Definition: A unit of fineness for silk, rayon, and manufactured fibers, equal to the weight in grams of 9,000 meters of yarn. Lower denier means finer yarn.
• Key Characteristics:
• Measures yarn thickness.
• Lower denier = finer, sheerer fabric.
• Higher denier = thicker, more durable fabric.
• Important for hosiery, technical textiles, and industrial applications.
• Common Uses:
• Hosiery (stockings, tights).
• Technical textiles (parachutes, ropes).
• Lightweight apparel fabrics.
• Industrial fabrics.
• Care Instructions:
• Care depends on the fiber content.
• Finer denier fabrics may require gentle care.

Term: Drape

• Definition: The way a fabric hangs or falls.
• Key Characteristics:
• Influenced by fiber type, yarn structure, and fabric construction.
• Can be fluid, soft, or stiff.
• Affects the appearance and feel of a garment.
• Common Uses:
• Garment design.
• Interior design (drapery).
• Fashion design.
• Any application where the fall of the cloth is important.
• Care Instructions:
• Care depends on the fiber content and fabric construction.
• Delicate fabrics with good drape may require special care.

Term: Damask

• Definition: A reversible figured fabric of silk, wool, linen, cotton, or synthetic fibers, with a pattern formed by weaving.
• Key Characteristics:
• Woven pattern visible on both sides.
• Typically a glossy pattern against a matte background.
• Woven on a Jacquard loom or dobby loom.
• Often features floral or geometric designs.
• Common Uses:
• Table linens.
• Upholstery.
• Decorative fabrics.
• Wall hangings.
• Care Instructions:
• Dry clean recommended for delicate damasks.
• Follow care instructions for the fiber content.
• Iron on a low setting.