First, “fabric” is a material made by entwining fibers together. Generally, a fabric is named after the fiber user to manufacture it; some fabrics will even use a blend of different fibers. The fabric is then named depending on the fiber(s) used, its pattern and texture and the production process implemented. Some fabrics also consider where the fibers originated from. knitting fabric manufacturer would like to introduce something to you.

Based off this, there are actually two sets of categories that first separate the types of fabric: the fibers used (natural vs. synthetic) and the production processes (woven vs. knitted).

Natural vs. Synthetic
The first differing detail with fabrics is dependent on what type of fiber is used. There are two types: natural and synthetic.

Natural fibers are obtained from plants and animals. For example, cotton comes from plants while silk comes from silkworms.

Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, are made entirely synthetic matter created by man.

Woven fabric

Woven vs. Knitted
The second differing detail is the production process used. Again, there are two types: woven and knitted.

Woven fabrics are made up of two pieces of yarn that interweave horizontally and vertically on a loom. Since the yarn runs at a 45-degree angle, the fabric doesn’t stretch and is usually tauter and sturdier than knit fabrics. The fabric consists of a weft (when the yarn goes across the width of the fabric) and a warp (when the yarn goes down the length of the loom).

There are three types of woven fabric: plain weave, satin weave and twill weave. Examples of popular woven fabrics are chiffon, crepe, denim, linen, satin and silk.

For knit fabric, think of a hand-knit scar; the yarn is formed into an interconnecting loop design, which allows it to stretch significantly. Knit fabrics are known for being elastic and keeping shape.

There are two types of knit fabric: warp-knitted and weft-knitted. Examples of popular knit fabrics are lace, lycra and mesh.

Now, let’s take a look at the 12 different types of fabric.