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.