What’s the Difference Between Fabric Types?

Confused by chiffon, drill, and jersey?
This guide will help you understand the differences between the most popular fabric types – their unique qualities, advantages, and how to choose the right one.

The textile industry offers a wide variety of fabrics, produced from different materials using various methods. Here's a short guide to help you understand the key characteristics of popular fabric types:

Polyester Fabric

Polyester is a synthetic fiber. It’s strong, affordable, and holds its shape well. Many modern fabrics such as synthetic velvet, silk-like fabrics, and soft lightweight weaves are polyester-based. However, it’s not breathable, so it’s often blended with cotton or viscose to improve softness and comfort.

Satin Fabric

Satin refers to a weave, not a fiber. It produces a glossy surface on one side of the fabric, giving it an elegant appearance. Commonly used for dresses, blouses, scarves, and home décor.

Linen Fabric

Linen is a natural fabric made from flax. It dries quickly and is ideal for hot, humid weather. It wrinkles easily and is costly to produce, but linen-like alternatives now offer similar appearance with better performance.

Rib Knit Fabric

Rib knit is a stretchy fabric with vertical lines (“ribs”) formed during knitting. Often reversible, it’s soft and flexible. Used for tops, babywear, and fitted garments. Made from cotton, polyester, viscose, or blends.

Drill Fabric

Drill is a dense, durable twill fabric with a diagonal weave. Made from cotton or poly-cotton, sometimes with spandex. Suitable for pants, uniforms, aprons, and workwear.

Cotton Fabric

Cotton is a natural, breathable, soft, and absorbent fabric. It’s comfortable but tends to wrinkle, shrink, and fade in sunlight.

Chiffon Fabric

Chiffon is a light, sheer fabric with a soft drape. Originally made from silk, now widely available in synthetic versions. Ideal for dresses, scarves, and flowing garments.

Percale

Percale is a tightly woven plain weave that results in a smooth, crisp finish. Often used for bedding or fine shirts.

Viscose (Rayon)

Viscose is made from wood pulp and is soft, airy, and semi-natural. Great for breathable, drapey clothing.

Lycra / Spandex / Elastane

All terms refer to the same synthetic elastic fiber. Often added to other fabrics to provide stretch and improved fit.

Fabric Blends

Many fabrics today are blends of fibers, each contributing a benefit:

  • Lycra adds stretch
  • Viscose adds softness
  • Cotton/Linen improve breathability
  • Polyester increases strength and color retention

 

Understanding fabric types can help you make better decisions when choosing textiles for your sewing or design projects.