The fabric chosen to create apparel is very important. The fabric affects how the clothing looks, feels, and is used. In turn, choice of fabric largely influences the price of the garment. There are many different fabrics that are commonly used in clothing. Most fabrics used to create clothing today are blends, so you can get the benefits from the different types of materials. Each type of fabric has pros, cons, and different steps that must be taken decorating the material without damaging it.
Cotton
Cotton is a natural fiber. Cotton is used in just about every type of apparel that is made from the least to most expensive. The grade of cotton used will depend on the item of clothing that is being made. Cheaper items that are made from cotton will be made from a lower grade. Egyptian and Pima cotton is used mostly for bedding, but some high-end clothing brands will use these cottons.
Polyester
Polyester is the name of the fiber that makes fabric, and the fabric itself. Polyester is a synthetic fabric and is very strong. Polyester is used in most types of clothing. T-shirts are often made of a blend of cotton and polyester. Polyester is most commonly used in active wear, jackets, and jerseys because it is moisture wicking, meaning it quickly dries when wet.
Bamboo
Bamboo clothing is created using bamboo grass pulp. Bamboo fabric is strong, but very light weight which has made it a popular choice for clothing. It also has antibacterial properties, as bacteria growth is limited. It also provides insulation properties, so bamboo fabric is a great choice for clothing that will be worn all year long.
Rayon
Rayon can be made from left-over from cotton products, or wood pulp. Rayon fabric can be used as a replacement for cotton, linen, and silk depending on the way that the rayon is made. Rayon is very weak and can be damaged when wet. Rayon is most commonly used to create dresses, sportswear, and blouses.
Fleece
Fleece can also be called polar fleece and is a type of polyester fabric. Fleece is used to create jackets, sweaters, sweatpants, and most outdoor clothing. It is a popular alternative to wool. There is also eco-friend fleece that is made from plastic bottles.
Acrylic
Acrylic is made from synthetic fibers. Acrylic fabric is warm and soft, while still being lightweight. It is a popular replacement for wool since it has a similar feeling. Acrylic is used in sweaters, hats, gloves, and many other items designed to keep you warm.
Hemp
Hemp fabric is made from fibers from the cannabis sativa plant. This fabric has been used for thousands of years. Today, hemp fabric is being used as a replacement for cotton. It is also being used to create denim.
Denim
Denim is most often made from cotton that is wafted under at least two threads. There are many colors of denim. The most common use of denim is to make jeans. Denim is also used to create bags, jackets, and shirts.
Silk
Silk comes from insects, and was originally produced in China centuries ago. Silk is a rare material that is expensive to produce as a fabric. Therefore, silk garments are very expensive. However, the feel of silk is that of no other fabric, and its elegance is undeniable.
Lace
Lace is fabric that is favored by women. It is made of various fabrics that are openly stitched to form intricate patterns. As a result of the details of lace garments, they are more expensive than every day clothing items.
