What Is Fabric – The Different Fabrics Used In Garment Making 

What is fabric? Welcome to M & P Trikam, the fabric specialist that will answer all your questions about material, fabrics and textiles. When looking for a shop for fabrics for making clothes in South Africa we, here at M & P Trikam, are the choice solution.

Fabrics, by design, consist of textiles. However, a fabric is not only made by the type of textile that is used, but also by the process that is used to create the fabric from the textiles. A cotton knit and a cotton weave, for example, are worlds apart in appearance and purpose.  While textiles have certain inherent properties, the process of creation – that is weaving, knitting, pressing et cetera – is just as important in the creation of a suitable, durable fabric. 

What is fabric made from? The general types of fabrics used in garment making and how to care for them (from fabrictree.com):

Natural Fabrics

• Cotton: Can be woven, pressed by heat into flannel, or used as knits. As a natural fibre, cotton "breathes" which makes it comfortable to wear. Care: Quite easy, as it is machine washable.
• Linen: A good choice for summer apparel. Care: To maintain its crispness, linen is often dry-cleaned. For a softer look, many linens can be hand-washed.
• Silk: Silk can have either a smooth finish or a ‘nubby’ finish (in raw silk). Care: Usually dry-clean, but many new silks may be hand washed.
• Wool: Good for apparel, especially outer wear. Care: Usually dry-clean, although some wools may be hand-washed. Read labels carefully.