Fabric workshop - Part I "Types of fabrics"

Found another great article in Livingetc*, this time about fabrics. I thought it'd be a fitting follow-up to our sofa workshop and with over 100 fabrics to choose from, we take this topic seriously at Bemz. As there is too much information for one post, I've split the workshop into two parts. In this first part we'll look at the various types of fabrics that are available, including a short description. Although a few guidelines will be provided with regards to what each fabric is best suited, greater detail will be given in part two.

The aim of this guide is to provide you with the tools you need to choose the right fabric, no matter the task nor the look. Whether you are going for country romance or urban cool, these tips will help ensure you get it right.

TYPES OF FABRICS:
Chenille: a soft, velvety feeling fabric with a gentle sheen, chenilles are suitable for upholstery, headboards, cushions and curtains.

Chintz: a plain-woven calico cloth, i.e., a fabric made from unbleached and often not fully processed cotton, commonly printed with flowers, chintz are suitable for curtains and decorative upholstery.

Corduroy: in essence a ridged form of velvet, corduroy is a soft yet hard-wearing fabric that comes in a variety of widths, ideal for family rooms and when looking to vary textures. Suitable for curtains, cushions and upholstery.

Cotton: natural, sustainable and biodegradable, cotton is soft, strong and durable, widely used and can be mixed with other fabrics to make it stronger. It is suitable for curtains, cushions and upholstery.

Damask: originally ornamental silk fabrics, damask can now be made of silk, wool, linen, cotton or synthetic fibers. Woven patterns with a satiny sheen typically featuring fruit, animals or ornamental designs. Durability depends on the composition of the thread. Suitable for bedding, tablecloths, curtains, headboards and decorative upholstery.

Linen: cool to the touch, smooth, strong and dirt resistant, linen is a sustainable crop that grows without the use of pesticides. It has a distinctive luster but poor elasticity so creases easily, and exposure to sunlight can lead to damage. It comes in a variety of thicknesses and weave densities. Suitable for light upholstery, curtains, soft furnishings, tablecloths and bedding.

Linen union: a linen blended with cotton or other fiber, slightly altering the quality of the cloth but may be a wiser choice for some furnishings as it is stronger, more resistant and creases less. Suitable for bedding, tablecloths, curtains, headboards, soft furnishings and upholstery.

 

Moire: a fabric with wavy (watered) appearance, caused by varying the tension in the weave, moire is traditionally made of silk but also available in cotton or synthetic fibers. Durability is dependent on the composition of the thread. Suitable for upholstery, wall coverings and cushions.

Silk: dyes well so available in strong vibrant colors, silk is luxurious and very strong but weakened by sunlight. It is often mixed with other fibers to produce cheaper, more resilient products. Suitable for cushions, decorative upholstery and curtains.

Velvet: is a tufted fabric in which cut threads are very evenly distributed, with a short dense pile, giving it a distinct feel. It can be made from many different fibers such as silk, cotton, linen, mohair and wool, and even synthetic varieties are now available. Velvet can be difficult to clean and is suitable for upholstery, cushions, headboards and curtains.

Wool: with a greater bulk than other textiles, wool is an exceptional insulator and offers a cozy, chic and luxurious alternative that can be used in traditional as well as modern properties. Wool hangs well but bobbles easily and is suitable for cushions, curtains and upholstery. Best to choose felt for stools or ottomans.

*Adapted from article written by Claudia Baillie; source: Livingetc November 2008. Thanks also to Wikipedia.

Next installment: How do I choose the right fabric for what I want to do?

Watch this space.

Comments

[l'atelier du Cap Gris-Nez]

Je découvre ton blog et j'avoue que j'aime beaucoup ce que tu y présente. C'est très joliment fait!

Pascale

[[Christie from Bemz]]

Thank you Pascale for your lovely comments!
And for those of you not fully proficient in French, Pascale wrote:
"I discovered your blog and I admit that I love what you come up with. It's very nicely done!"

[Halo fabrics]

Every time I cross along fabric topics and blogs in the internet, I can't help my self admire those lovely colors and design stuff for fabrics that is making me stunned and adore fabricated materials more and more. And this article you have shared indeed provided me with an excellent new idea for fabric.