What is Cotton Fabric?
One of the most widely used fabrics is cotton fabric. This textile is chemically natural, which means it doesn't contain synthetic chemicals. Cotton fabric is made from the fibres around the seeds of cotton plants. Once the seeds mature, they form a round, fluffy structure.
This fabric has been popular for its lightness and breathability. Cotton fabric is incredibly soft and has heat retention properties that are similar to wool.
Although cotton fabric is stronger than silk fabric, it is also more durable than wool. This fabric is susceptible to tears, pilling, rips and tearing. However, cotton is still one of the most widely used and popular fabrics in the world.
Also read for 10 popular fabrics for casual dresses.
Cotton is water-repellent but also very breathable. It also dries quickly, which makes it highly moisture-wicking. Cotton can be washed at high temperatures and drapes well on the body.
What are the Different Types of Cotton?
There are many types of cotton. There are many types of cotton, each with its own characteristics and quality. Let’s look in more detail at the different types of cotton fabric – there are quite a lot!
Cambric
Cambric cottons a lightweight cloth that can also be used to make lace and handkerchiefs. Cambric was originally made from linen, but you can find it today in cotton.
Canvas
It is a heavy, durable fabric that can withstand the elements, and it can be rough to the touch. It is used to make items that can withstand the elements, such as tents or sails. However, you may also find it in your favourite hat.
Corduroy
This distinctive ridged pattern is often used to create jackets and trousers. You can feel the cords by running your fingers across them.
Denim
It's a tough, strong twill weave that is used to make jeans. It's worth looking inside blue jeans. You'll find white stitches that alternate with the blue. This is because the warp and weft threads are dyed blue. However, they are found only on the insides of the jeans.
Flannel
It is a soft, fuzzy fabric that has a little bit of weight. It is often used to make casual shirts or cuddly pyjamas. Like many types of cotton fabric, flannel can also be made from other materials such as wool.
Gauze
It is often very loosely woven and sometimes sheer. It is used to cover wounds and can also be used to add beautiful transparent accents to clothes.
Lawn
It is a light, smooth, finely woven fabric. It is soft to the touch and perfect for summer dresses.
Muslin
Muslin cotton is an affordable, lightweight, loose-woven cloth. You might consider using muslin to test your designs before buying the more expensive fabric.
Oxford cloth
It is a textured fabric that is opaque and wrinkle-resistant. This makes it great for making shirts.
Poplin
It is a strong, simple, versatile fabric that can be used for many purposes. The weft is thicker than the warp. It has a slight sheen and can be used for all kinds of clothes, including shirts, trousers and coats, as well as dresses.
Sateen
It has a satiny sheen and feels. It is made from cotton and not silk, but it is woven in the same manner as satin. It is popular for making bedsheets.
Terry cloth
This fabric is used to make towels, bathrobes, and face flannels. It's covered with tiny loops of thread. This absorbent design enhances cotton's natural absorbency. Although it's confusing to say that flannels don't contain flannel is the reality of our world.
Velour
It is a very soft pile, and, at first glance, it looks almost like velvet. Although velvet is traditionally made from silk, cotton velour can be much more affordable. It can be used as a fabric for upholstery and clothes.
Characteristics of Cotton
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Non-elastic
- Good draping quality
- Feels good.
- Super absorbent
- Good colour retention capacity
- Dry cleaning
- Machine washing is possible
- Amazing strength
- Cooling properties
- Dries quickly
- Extremely shiny
- Very good moisture absorption
- Very durable
What is Cotton used for?
About 75% of all apparel products in the world are made from cotton. The most commonly used textile fibre is cotton, and its producers can spin it into many different items.
For example, most T-shirts contain some cotton. Blue jeans are also made of 100% cotton. This fabric can be used to make bathrobes and towels as well as bedsheets. You can also use cotton to make curtains, wall hangings and other house decorations.
Because it is highly breathable and absorbent, cotton is used widely to make warm-weather clothing. Because of its softness, it is a great choice for business and formal attire. It also has exceptional draping qualities that make it an excellent fabric to use for dresses.
The production of medical supplies and industrial threads and tarps is made from cotton. You can make almost any type of textile from cotton for industrial or consumer use.
Read more for What is Minky Fabric and its Uses?
Common Uses of Cotton Fabric
Cotton is one of the oldest natural fibres. Cotton is a renewable, sustainable, biodegradable, and natural fibre. Cotton is used in a majority of clothing, especially for men and boys.
Jeans
Cotton fabric is the ideal choice for jeans. Most jeans are made of cotton.
Shirts
The main fabric that makes a comfortable and breathable shirt is cotton, from the white cotton T-shirt to the button-up for work to the timeless classic white cotton T.-shirt.
Underwear
Cotton is the main fabric for underwear, including briefs and undershirts. Cotton is ideal for garments close to the skin because it is soft, breathable, and absorbent.
Bedding
More than 60% of the market for bedspreads, pillows, cases and sheets is made from cotton. Other home furnishings, such as curtains or pillows, are also made from cotton.
Towels
Cotton is almost the only material used in towels and washcloths. Cotton fibre is absorbent, making it the best fabric for kitchen towels and bathroom towels.
Can we use Cotton Fabric for Clothing?
Cotton fabric is commonly used for summer clothing because of its breathable and moisture-absorbent properties.
How do you Care for Cotton Fabric?
Cotton is easy to maintain as well as comfortable. These simple tips will help you care for cotton fabric.
WASHING
To determine if machine washing is recommended, check the label. Use the appropriate cycle if machine washing is required. Do not use fabric softeners, as they can dull the finish.
WATER TEMPERATURE
To prevent shrinkage and fading, wash in cool or warm water. Avoid using hot water as it can shrink cotton.
DRYING
Cotton fabrics can either be dried in the air or machine dried at low heat. Cotton fibres may shrink if they are exposed to high heat.
Expand your knowledge about What are the Best Ways to Dry Cotton Fabric.
IRONING
Iron fabric at high heat, with the fabric slightly damp. Steam can be used if necessary. Ironing can be avoided by drying the garments or taking them out of the machine immediately.
You can also read for how to wash rayon fabric.