corduroy fabric is made from cotton or wool

Corduroy is a woven fabric that has evenly spaced vertical rows of raised parallel ridges known as “cords” or “wales.” The ridges are formed from cut pick yarns that are tightly tufted into the fabric’s surface. This gives the fabric a velvety feel that’s soft to the touch, with a texture that’s warm and cosy without feeling bulky or heavy.

Traditionally, corduroy fabric is made from cotton or wool, but it can also be made from other natural and synthetic fibres. It’s often coloured using dye, which can give it a variety of different colours and patterns. It’s a durable, sturdy fabric that’s ideally suited for clothing and furniture applications like cushions and drapes. The textured surface of the fabric can help to add warmth and insulation to rooms, especially when it’s used in upholstery.

Modern corduroy dates back to eighteenth-century England, where it was originally a rough, coarse type of woollen cloth that’s similar to fustian. It didn’t transform into the softer, ribbed fabric we know and love today until the late 18th century when textile manufacturers developed it in factories across Europe and America. Today, corduroy is commonly woven in cotton and can be used for clothing, furnishings, and accessories.

Unlike most other types of fabrics, corduroy is usually woven with a plain weave, meaning that weft threads alternate over and under warp threads. This style of weaving also helps to make the fabric incredibly durable and comfortable. It’s also a relatively easy fabric to sew, and it can be used by beginners and advanced seamstresses alike.

There are many different types of corduroy, and the difference between each is typically defined by the number of lengthwise pile rows per inch. In addition, the width of the wale can vary. Broad wale corduroy has wider ridges than standard or classic corduroy, while narrow wale corduroy has thinner walls that are more closely bunched together.

In terms of colour and texture, corduroy is usually available in earthy shades and neutrals. The ribbed appearance of the fabric adds warmth and texture to rooms, and it works well in combination with other textured materials, such as suede, chenille, and hand-woven fabrics. The fabric can also be pigment-dyed to create a more unique and distinctive look.

The ridged fabric is perfect for use in homes that are reminiscent of the great outdoors, such as log cabins. Pairing it with tweed and other natural fabrics can create a cosy, rustic atmosphere, especially when the fabric is used to make cushions, bed runners, and chair or sofa covers. You can even try using corduroy with nubby knits and natural wood accessories to create a truly calming room.