Fabrics

A guide to common fabrics

Eight common fabric families and what each is often used for. A general guide to cloth, not a stock list.

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  • A folded square of white cotton poplin on pale ash wood.

    Cotton poplin

    A smooth, tightly woven cotton with a crisp feel. Often used for shirts and light dresses.

  • A folded square of stone cotton twill on pale ash wood.

    Cotton twill

    A sturdy cotton with fine diagonal lines in the weave. Often used for trousers, overshirts and jackets.

  • A folded square of indigo denim on pale ash wood, one corner turned back.

    Denim

    A strong cotton twill, traditionally woven with indigo and white yarns. Often used for jeans and jackets.

  • A folded square of natural flax linen on pale ash wood.

    Linen

    Woven from flax: cool, breathable and quick to crease. Often used for summer shirts, trousers and dresses.

  • A folded square of grey wool flannel on pale ash wood.

    Wool flannel

    A soft woven wool, lightly brushed for a matte, warm surface. Often used for trousers, jackets and coats.

  • A folded square of ecru wool bouclé on pale ash wood.

    Wool bouclé

    Woven or knitted from looped yarn, which gives it a nubbly, textured surface. Often used for jackets and coats.

  • A folded square of navy merino knit on pale ash wood.

    Merino knit

    Knitted from fine merino wool: soft, light and warm without bulk. Often used for sweaters and cardigans.

  • A folded square of oatmeal cotton jersey on pale ash wood.

    Cotton jersey

    A soft, stretchy knitted cotton. Often used for T-shirts, tops and casual dresses.

AI-generated images, for illustration: each shows one example of the family. Weight, colour and finish vary from cloth to cloth.

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