In our
previous post, it was stated why an embroidery digitizing operator should have enough knowledge about fabrics because it could affect the overall quality of the design of a particular embroidery digitizing job. Since we already have tackled the types of fabrics according to applications, today what we will share to you is the second classification of fabrics commonly used for embroidery digitizing project – the weave.
When we speak of weave, it refers to the pattern used for manufacturing a fabric. Fabric weaves range from plain and simple to artistic and decorative. With so many types of fabrics weave available in the market these days, finding for the most suitable weave for an
embroidery digitizing job sometimes is a hassle activity. So to help you in your project, we have here five of the most commonly used fabrics weave for embroidery digitizing.
Plain Weave
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| Each filling yarn goes alternately under and over the warp yarns |
This is said to be the most common and the simplest of all fabric patterns. Plain weave are very affordable to produce, durable, smooth, at the same time features a tight surface that makes it conducive not just for embroidery digitizing but also for printing of draperies, tablecloths, and upholstery. Fabrics with plain weave are crepe, taffeta, organdy, cotton, calicos, cheesecloth, gingham, percale, voile, and muslin.
Twill Weave
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| Three or more shafts; warp or filling floats over two or more counterpart yarns in progressive steps right or left |
This is somewhat a keen to plain weave however, it is more durable, more flexible, heavier, and with better resistant against soil and wrinkle. Common applications of this fabric weave are for making upholstery, comforters, and pillows and examples of fabrics with twill weave, you have covert cloth, drill, jean, jersey, velvet, and the likes.
Satin Weave
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| Floats one warp yarn over four or more weft yarns, then tied down with one thread, resulting in a smooth face |
This type of fabric weave is said to be glossy, with smooth surface, and great drapability. Just like twill weave, this type of fabric weaving is more flexible than plain ones. Satin weaves are commonly used for draperies and quilts and example of fabrics with satin weave are bocade, brocatelle, crepe-satin, peau de soie, velvet satin, etc.
Basket Weave
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| Two or more warps simultaneously interlaced with one or more fillings |
It is a variation of plain weave. Fabrics are of loose construction and flat look. However, compared to plain weave fabrics, the basket weave is more flexible and stronger but less stable. This particular weave of fabric is commonly used in composites industry as well as in making outerwear, wall hangings, pillows, and draperies. Samples of fabrics with basket weave are oxford and monk’s cloth.
Jacquard Weave
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| Warp is individually controlled with each pick passage creating intricate designs |
Fabrics with jacquard patterns is a mixture of plain, twill, and satin weaves. Many decorative fabrics are manufactured using jacquard weave. This is one of the best fabrics to weave for an embroidery digitizing artwork because designs do not easily fade or wear out. Brocade and damask are samples of fabrics with jacquard weave and these are commonly used in making upholstery as well as wall hangings.
