FABRICS

SEERSUCKER FABRIC (#69)

Seersucker fabric originated in India. The name comes from the phrase “shir o shakar” in Hindi, which means milk and sugar, and refers to the two textures in the fabric. Seersucker fabric was later brought to the Western world by Muslim traders. It became popular in British colonies as a material worn in warm climates.

In the United States, the fabric was originally thought of as a cheap material worn by lower class citizens. When college students began to wear the fabric to make an ironic statement, it became popular among the higher classes. Seersucker suits became popular in the southern United States, as the lightweight pants and shirts made seersucker an ideal fabric for the hot Southern climate.

Seersucker fabric is both light, breathable and durable. It is woven such that some threads bunch together, giving the fabric a wrinkled appearance with distinctive stripes woven in. Seersucker fabrics are generally made from cotton or a cotton blend. The uneven texture causes the fabric to sit away from the skin, allowing for air circulation. As an added benefit, because of its wrinkled texture, seersucker fabric is machine washable and does not need to be ironed.

REFERENCE:

Howell, S. (2010, September 25). How Is Seersucker Fabric Made? Retrieved February 10, 2017, from https://www.leaf.tv/articles/how-is-seersucker-fabric-made/

SERGE FABRIC (#70)

Serge is a twill weave fabric, similar to gabardine, with distinctive diagonal ridges, a result of the two-up and two-down weaving process. Extremely durable and sturdy, serge fabric has a classic, dressy look, drapes especially well and is quite flexible.

The word "serge" is derived from the Greek serikos, meaning "silken". Evidence of serge fabric dates back to a piece of the fabric found in the tomb of Charlemagne, possibly a gift from the Byzantine empire during the 8th century and thought to have originated in China sometime before that. Originally possessed only by nobility and the upper class, serge fabric began to be manufactured by the French in the 1500s, using premium English wool. Wool serge is especially popular in military uniforms and suits, as the material drapes very well, can be worn comfortably for extended periods of time, and can be made in a variety of weights for different climates. 

Silk serge fabric is typically used as a lining, as the soft material wears well against the skin and the natural resiliency of serge allows for the insides of coats and jackets to be adequately protected. Serge is typically though of as a premium fabric, as its durability, flexibility, ease of wear and range of weights lend it to be a perfect choice for dressy yet frequently worn garments.

REFERENCE:

Fabric Information: Serge. (n.d.). Retrieved February 10, 2017, from https://www.nyfashioncenterfabrics.com/pages/serge-fabric-information

SHANTUNG FABRIC

Similar to dupioni, silk shantung fabric is a heavier, premium silk, featuring a lightly pebbled surface and ribbed effect that contrasts pleasingly with silks of lighter weights. With some silk shantung selections, the warp and weft are of different colors, providing its own contrasting iridescence. Originating in the Shantung province in China, this fabric is extremely versatile.

Silk shantung offers crisp adaptability and subtle luster that make it a popular choice in dresses, suits and coats for all occasions. It's also a commonly used silk in the crafting of exquisite Indian saris and suits. Although silk shantung fabric can be washed, we recommend that it be dry cleaned to help preserve the signature, crisp authority the material is known for.

REFERENCE:

Silk Shantung Fabric Facts and Information. (n.d.). Retrieved February 10, 2017, from https://www.nyfashioncenterfabrics.com/pages/silk-shantung-fabric-information

VELOUR FABRIC

 Knitted fabric or textile similar to velvet. It is usually made from cotton but can also be made from synthetic materials such as polyester. Its use can be for upholstery and clothing due to its warm, and colorful style. Also, used for dance wear for the ease of movement it affords.

Sometimes, it is confused with velvet suede,and chamois.

REFERENCE:

Apparel Search Company. (1999-2017). Retrieve February 11,2017 from http://www.apparelsearch.com/definitions/fabric/velour_fabric_definition.htm

VELVET FABRIC (#73)

Form of textile that is woven on a special type of loom that is a tufted fabric which the cut threads are very distributed for its given distinct feel. Its counterpart in fabric is the velour. Velvet is expensive type of fabric.

REFERENCE:

Apparel Search Company. (1999-2017). Retrieve February 11,2017 from http://www.apparelsearch.com/definitions/fabric/velour_fabric_definition.htm

VELVETEEN FABRIC

A type of fabric with a single weft and is similar to velvet yet generally much softer and used for apparel. Filling pile cloth in which the pile is made by cutting an extra set of filling yarn which weave in a float formation. This is often mercerized with a durable finish. Its is strong and take hard wear, can be laundered, dyed, and printed. 


REFERENCE:

Textile Glossary. (2017). Retrieve February 11,2017 from http://www.textileglossary.com/terms/velveteen.html

VOILE FABRIC

A light transparent fabric of plain weave cotton-like with twist yarns in a high yarn count construction. Its appearance is similar to organdy and organza. Voile is sheer and very light-weight usually made with cylindrical combed yarns.

Glossary. (2017). Retrieve February 11,2017 from http://www.textileglossary.com/terms/velveteen.html

SURAH FABRIC

A light weight, lustrous twill weave constructed fabric with a silk-like hand. Surah is the fabric of ties, dresses, and furnishings. It is available in silk, polyester, and rayon. A silk, rayon, or synthetic fiber woven in a twill (2 up and 2 down) that is soft and flexible, lightweight and lustrous. It has a noticeable twill on the fabric and wrinkles easily. Underlining can help to prevent wrinkling, as well as to prevent slipping at the seams. Some have a tendency to water spot. It is very similar to "foulard", but heavier.

REFERENCE:

Surah Fabric. (n.d.). Retrieved February 11, 2017, from http://www.textileglossary.com/terms/surah.html

SWISS FABRIC

A lightweight, sheer cotton or cotton blend fabric with a plain weave with a small dot flock-like pattern either printed on the surface of the fabric, or woven into the fabric. Dots could be a single color or multicolored. Placed regularly or irregularly on a semi-sheer usually crisp fabric which may or may not be permanent. First made on hand looms in Switzerland and some still is. It is made in 32' widths. The lappet is the most permanent. When hand woven with a swivel attachment the dots are tied in by hand on the back of the cloth. End-uses for this fabric include blouses, dresses, baby clothes, and curtains.

REFERENCE:

Dotted Swiss. (n.d.). Retrieved February 11, 2017, from http://www.textileglossary.com/terms/dotted-swiss.html

TAFFETA FABRIC

Taffeta counts as one of the richest and most superior fabrics. It consists of a wide range of varieties, from soft to stiff, lightweight to medium-weight, sheer to opaque, plaids, prints, and iridescent cloth. Especially popular for its gleam and glossiness, this fabric is made primarily from silk. It is a tightly woven, plain weave material. Consisting of high-twist filament yarn, both the warp and filling in taffeta have approximately an equal number of yarns. It is woven mainly from silk, traditionally a purely silk-made fabric. However, today, it is made using synthetic fibers too, like a blend of silk and polyester, or from combinations with rayon, polyester, acetate, and nylon.

 Taffeta is made from a plain weave. The warp and weft in its weave forms a simple criss-cross pattern, resembling a checker board. More weaves per inch make it a tightly woven fabric with less seam slippage.

REFERENCE:

The Properties, Types, and Uses of Taffeta Fabric. (n.d.). Retrieved February 11, 2017, from http://www.buzzle.com/articles/properties-of-taffeta-fabric.html

TARTAN FABRIC

Tartan is a unique art form and conventionally a textile design comprising woven bands or stripes of various colours and widths, the design sequence being the same in both directions of the fabric - with some exceptions - and normally producing a square pattern which is generally - but not necessarily - symmetrical about defined pivot points or stripes.

This arrangement creates a recognisable pattern or 'sett' which is repeated across the width (weft) and length (warp) of the material. Where bands of differing colours cross, intermediate hues are formed and the pattern can be modified by the addition of finer lines of the same or contrasting colours.

Reference:

Tartan . (n.d.). Retrieved February 11, 2017, from http://www.tartansauthority.com/tartan/tartan-today/tartan-design/what-is-a-tartan/

TERRY CLOTH (#79)

It is familiar as the material that is used for bath towels and washcloths. It is a type of fabric with a plush texture that is soft to the touch and has highly absorbent qualities. Terry cloth features a high loop pile, which may be on one or both sides of the fabric. Clothing manufacturers often use terry cloth to make garments, such as the classic bath robe and slippers, as well as athletics warm-up suits and exercise gear.

Origin

The first terry cloth appeared in France in 1841 and was handmade from silk. This original fabric gave it the label of terry from the French word "tirer," meaning to pull out or through. Following this, John Bright began manufacturing woolen terry cloth in England in 1845. Samuel Holt manufactured the fabric now known as terry cloth in 1848, using cotton for the first time. He patented his fabric in both Britain and the United States, and began mass-producing it at his plant in Paterson, New Jersey in 1864.

Types of Terry Cloth

Cotton is the principal material used to manufacture terry cloth, but it may also include polyester, rayon, linen, or blends of spandex or Lycra to add stretch. There are generally four types of terry cloth fabrics.

Standard Terry Cloth

Standard terry cloth has the loosely woven loops on both sides of the fabric that is recognizable in household towels. Usually woven from cotton or a cotton-polyester blend, this type of terry cloth is very plush and absorbent. Because the plush thread loops are straight lines, damage may unspool it and leave barren spots on the fabric.

Common Use: Hand towels, Bath towels and Robes 

French Terry Cloth

Although it uses the same manufacturing process, French Terry cloth has no loops on one side of the fabric. It is a medium to lightweight material that is more elastic than standard terry cloth. The absorbency and plush texture of French terry cloth makes it a popular choice for casual wear and sports clothes.

Common Use: Blankets, Diapers, Sports Clothes and Track Suits 

Micro Terry Fleece

Micro terry fleece has tightly woven loops on both sides of the fabric. Unlike other types of terry cloth, the manufacture of micro terry fleece primarily uses polyester and includes no natural fibers. This makes the cloth extremely soft and increases its absorbency. The density of the weave makes it practical for warm outer garments and baby clothes.

Common Use: Diapers and Soft Washcloths

Knit Terry Cloth

Knit terry cloth has similar properties to French terry cloth and resembles it by having loops on only one side of the fabric. Knit terry cloth consists of interlocking loops of yarn bound together. This gives it the soft texture and stretchy qualities of knitted fabrics, with the absorbency of terry cloth.

Common Use: Blankets, Diapers, Sports Clothes and Track Suits 

REFERENCE:

(2016, March 10). Retrieved February 11, 2017, from http://www.ebay.com/gds/What-is-Terry-Cloth-/10000000178758813/g.html

TICKING FABRIC (#80)

Ticking is a cotton or linen textile that is tightly woven for durability and to prevent down feathers from poking through the fabric, and used to cover mattresses and bed pillows. It commonly has a striped design, in muted colors such as brown, grey or blue, and occasionally red or yellow, against a plain, neutral background.

Although traditionally used for mattresses and pillows, the material has found other uses, such as serving as a backing for quilts, coverlets and other bedding. It is sometimes woven with a twill weave.

Ticking is no longer restricted to a utility fabric and has found uses in interior decorating styles intending to evoke a homespun or industrial aesthetic. Modern uses for ticking include furniture upholstery, pillow covers, tablecloths, placemats, decorative basket liners, and curtains. Occasionally, lighter weight percale cloth is printed with a striped pattern made to resemble ticking fabric, and used to make garments.

                                                

                       furniture upholstery                                               pillow cover

                    

                              place mat                                                              curtain

REFERENCE:

Ticking. (2016, March 2). Retrieved February 11, 2017, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ticking

TWEED FABRIC (#81)

Tweed fabric is part of the textured woolens family of fabrics. These fabrics are usually woven in a combination of two or more colors or a combination of two or more of the same color. The origin of these tweed fabrics is tied to the Tweed River, which flows along the border between England and Scotland. Generally tweeds are named for the area for which they are made, such as Harris, Shetland, Donegal, and Bannockburn. Others such as herringbone or houndstooth are known for their physical characteristics.  These give the characteristically rough look associated with tweed. Tweed follows the fabric characteristics of the textured woolens.

Woolen yarns are made from carded wool, which is thick and full of un-straightened fibers. It is warm and flexible. Tweed is typically woven in a twill weave.  Twill has diagonal ribs crossing the fabric, like the pattern on blue jeans. 

Dyes are traditionally earth-tone and made locally, producing a wide range of color depending on where the tweed is from. Specific regions often have their own trademarked tweed, made with local wool and dyed a particular color. Harris Tweed from Scotland and Donegal Tweed from Ireland are probably the most well-known variants.

Characteristics of Tweed Fabric:

• Many are firmly woven

• Easy to sew

• Durable

• Moisture resistant

• Many are bulky

• Can be damaged with improper pressing techniques

• Frequently have a rough surface which can hide stitching irregularities  

              

                            Donegal Tweed                                          Harris Tweed

                       

                         Shetland Tweed                                       Bannockburn Tweed

        

REFERENCE:

Gadis, P. (n.d.). Tweed Fabric – Textured Woolen Creations. Retrieved February 11, 2017, from http://www.the-sewing-partner.com/tweed-fabric.html

Understanding Tweed Fabric. (n.d.). Retrieved February 11, 2016, from http://www.realmenrealstyle.com/tweed-fabric-transcript/

                                                             SHARKSKIN

                                       

Sharkskin fabric has long been considered a highly desirable material that works well for all sorts of applications, some of them practical and some purely cosmetic. Known for having a smooth finish and unique weave, this fabric may be used for everything from sporting and marine equipment to clothing and accessories.
In most cases, sharkskin can be defined as a woven blend of smooth wool. More correctly, it is a smooth worsted fabric that often has a soft texture and a two-toned woven appearance to the worsted fabric. Usually, this two tone appearance is achieved by employing what is referred to as a basketweave, and can use both white and colored fibers. This creates a pattern where the different colored threads run diagonal to each other.
Typically, this material is made with the use of rayon or acetate, or as a blend of the two. Because both fabric options already have a relatively smooth texture, the combination results in the finish that sharkskin fabric is known for. Also, this creates a fabric option that can be laundered at home with the greatest of ease.

                                                              SHEETING

 

A  flat-woven textile that is used on a bed between the occupant of a bed and the warm blanket above. It is generally a rectangle of broadloomed fabric, meaning it is made without a center seam. Bed sheets have hems at top and bottom. The selvages, or finished edges of the woven sheet as it is made on the loom are used as side seams and thus there is no need for hemming on the sides. Today, the bed sheet comes as part of a set of bed linens that match in color, fabric, and detail and includes the fitted sheet (to cover the mattress), the flat sheet and at least one pillow case.

The bed sheet may be made of a variety of fibers, including linen, cotton, synthetics (often blended with natural fibers such as cotton) and occasionally silk. Bed sheets are made of a wide variety of fabrics. Particularly popular is percale, a closely-woven plain weave of all cotton or cotton-polyester blend that is smooth, cool, and comfortable against the skin. Also of plain weave but more coarsely woven than percale is muslin. In winter months flannel sheets, which are woven with nappy cotton fibers, provides additional warmth. Silky, satiny bed sheets, generally woven of synthetics (silk is very expensive) are a novelty. Linen is also occasionally used for bed sheeting but is not generally commercially available in this country as linen is not processed in the United States. Linen sheeting is either imported from Eastern Europe or Britain.

                                                      STRETCH WOVEN 

                                

Stretch woven fabrics are woven fabrics with the addition of spandex fibre. Compared to knitted fabrics, stretch wovens tend to be used in more structured garments with the stretch often adding to the comfort of the garment. lightweight, soft plain weave fabric with a slightly brushed surface. The fabric is often printed, usually in a floral pattern. Challis is most often seen in fabrics made of cotton, wool, or rayon. Chambray. A plain woven fabric that can be made from cotton, silk, or manufactured fibers, but is most commonly cotton.

REFERENCE:

http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-sharkskin-fabric.htm
http://www.madehow.com/Volume-5/Bed-Sheet.html
http://knitwit.com.au/product-category/stretch-wovens/

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