Why are fabrics woven in different ways?
Have you ever wondered why fabrics are woven in various styles? Probably that is exactly why you are here. I have good news for you.
By the end of this article you will definitely have an answer to this question. Trust me. Let’s dive in.
I deal with a lot of fabrics on a daily basis. Each fabric has its own uniqueness when it comes to smoothness, comfort, tear strength and durability. I am fascinated by how different each fabrics are woven which resulted in such properties.
What is a weave?
In order to make a piece of fabrics, yarns are interloped together to form a piece of fabric. Horizontal weft and vertical warp yarns are interlaced together in a fabric. This simple process is called as weaving.
Can you believe that weaving was invented around 6000 AD somewhere in West Asia?
Initially the yarns were interlaced at 90 degree angle over each, which is the simplest design in weaving called as the plain weave.
Today with modernization of weaving machines or ‘looms’, factories can come up with a wide range of weaving designs. But there are only three basic weaving styles, which can be combined with each other styles of weaving to form a new style of weaving.
Explore Woven Fabrics
What are the basic types of weaving?
- Plain weave
Plain weave is the most common and the fundamental style of weaving in textiles. It is also known as the Linen weave, Tabby weave or Taffeta weave.
Properties:
· No right or wrong side
· Rigid
· Less fray
· Less absorbent
· Versatile
· Can be used from heavy to light depending on yarn type
- Satin weave
Satin weaves are another prominent style of weaving style. It has a face and a back that looks significantly different from each other. The common properties of satin weave includes tough to tear and softness against skin. Mostly used in the making couture wear, wedding dress and drapery linings.
Properties:
· Shiny
· Soft
· Elastic
· Two sides
1. Twill weave
Twill weave is fairly easy to recognise because this style of weaving produces a diagonal line on the face of the fabric. The regular Twill design has a 45 degree angle with the horizontal. Commonly used in making garments, household cloths and industrial cloths.
Properties:
· More pliable
· Better wrinkle resistance
· Possibility of high count
· Interesting texture
Can you believe that there are more than 20 style of weaves used in the production of fabrics?
Why are fabrics woven in different ways?
Now that we know, more than 20+ weaving variants are available each with their properties, we can conclude that it is made for its properties. A fabric weave is defined before production analysing its use.
Can you name some of the popular weave types in the comments?
