All about woven fabrics and their uses

How are woven fabrics made?

Woven fabrics are made by weaving or knitting yarns, which is how most fabrics are made. Nonwovens are made by bonding or felting fibers together. Woven fabrics are made up of a weft (which runs through the fabric) and a warp (which runs along the length of the fabric). The side of the fabric where the weft threads are supported by a double layer to create a wrinkle-free edge is called the selvedge.

What are the types of woven fabrics?

There are three types of woven fabrics. The first type is plain woven fabrics in which the warp and weft threads form a simple cross-shaped pattern. This type of weave is strong and abrasion resistant. The second type is a twill weave, where the weft and warp threads are offset to form a diagonal pattern. The third type, satin woven fabrics, is a complex arrangement of warp and weft threads - these weaving variations form fabrics such as jacquards and brocades. Depending on the yarns used, woven fabrics can be either lightweight or heavyweight. For example, lightweight sheer fabrics to heavyweight jacquard and velvet fabrics.

Using woven fabrics for curtains

Most curtain fabrics are made from woven fabrics. This fabric can be printed to obtain many different designs, patterns and colors. A variety of printing methods are available, including screen printing and digital printing. When planning your new curtains, the best way to make sure the fabric you choose coordinates with your existing décor is to get some fabric samples at the store or by ordering online. You can then see if the fabric fits into your existing color scheme and can avoid costly mistakes.

Use woven fabrics for decorations

Woven fabric is also an ideal upholstery fabric. It can be used for fixed upholstery or for loose covers. If necessary, it can also be treated to make it flame retardant. A popular woven fabric for covering chairs and sofas, tartan wool fabric comes in a variety of colors, from traditional reds and greens to modern colors such as hot pink and turquoise. Wool fabric is ideal for upholstery because of its inherent flame retardant properties. Other woven fabrics such as jacquard and damask fabrics are also hard-wearing, making them ideal for recovering tired chairs or sofas. Other items, such as headboards and bedspreads, can also be upholstered with woven fabrics.