Types of Cotton Fabric Weaves

Kim Blakesley
Cotton fibers are the most commonly used in many types of fabric weave. The plain, satin, twill, and jacquard are four of the common weaves.

Plain Weave

Cotton woven in a plain weave is made by the filling fiber going over and under the warp yarns in an alternate fashion. Common fabrics made with a plain weave include cotton calico, gingham, poplin, percale, flannel, gauze, cheesecloth, dimity, sailcloth, duck, muslin, outing flannel, Swiss, oxford and voile. This type of fabric is most commonly used to make draperies, tablecloths, clothing, quilts, canvas for painters, boat sails, shirts, awnings, tents, and upholstery. The plain weave is the most economically to make and the easiest to produce. The tight, flat surface produced by the plain weave is ideal for printing.

Satin Weave

The satin weave is constructed by weaving one fiber over 4 fibers in a weaving loom. The result creates a smooth soft luster to the fabric front. The construction of the satin weaves allows for drape-ability. The satin weave does snag easily. The only cotton fabric made with the satin weave is sateen. Satin is made with the satin weave but from other fibers. Common uses for a satin weaved cotton is for draperies, clothing and quilts.

Twill

The twill weave is constructed by taking three or more warp threads and weaving them over two or more weft threads. This is done in a progressive step manner. Common types of fabric constructed with the twill weave include denim, diaper cloth, drill, tweed, serge, and gabardine. Common uses for the twill fabric are comforters, pillows, slacks for both men and women, diapers and upholstery.

Jacquard

The jacquard weave is constructed by controlling the warp thread with each pick passage. The result is a fabric with an intricate design. The design is often multi-colored. This type of weave is very expensive. Advantages of this type of weave is it does not fade and it is very durable. Common types of fabric made with the jacquard weave include tapestry, damask and brocade. Common uses include wall hangings, upholstery and quilt inserts.

References

Fabrics Manufacturers: Satin Weave
Kushtush: Organic Cotton Weaves
Fibre2Fashion: Different types of weaves
Britannica: Jacquard Weave
Fashion Era: Jacquard Damask and Brocade Fashion Fabrics
Apple Search: Plain Weave

Published by Kim Blakesley - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle

The passions in my life include education, the arts, home remodeling, woodworking and travel. Due to my eclectic plethora of interests, writing and photography have become two extraordinary outlets of expres...  View profile

  • Cotton woven in a plain weave is made by the filling fiber going over and under the warp yarns in an
  • The twill weave is constructed by taking three or more warp threads and weaving them over two or ...
  • The jacquard weave is constructed by controlling the warp thread with each pick passage.
This type of fabric is most commonly used to make draperies, tablecloths, clothing, quilts, canvas for painters, boat sails, shirts, awnings, tents, and upholstery.

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