Stoffstück

Stoffstück is a German term for a piece of fabric cut from a larger piece of textile. It functions as a sample or swatch used for evaluation, design, fitting, or testing, providing a reference for color, pattern, texture, weight, and drape before a larger purchase or production run. The word combines Stoff (fabric) and Stück (piece).

In textile trade and sewing, Stoffstücke are deployed to assess material characteristics such as color accuracy, hand feel, weave or knit structure, and care requirements. Sizes and formats vary widely; small samples around several square centimeters are common in retail contexts, while larger pieces, such as 30 by 30 centimeters, may be used for upholstery or design proposals. Labels on Stoffstücke may include fiber content, finishing, dye lot information, and care instructions to aid comparison and quality control.

Stoffstücke are closely related to terms like Musterstück, Stoffmuster, and Probestück, which refer to fabric samples or swatches used for selection and specification. The practice has historical roots in traditional tailoring and textile commerce, where swatches enabled customers and designers to compare materials and coordinate colors across garments. In contemporary settings, swatches are distributed both physically and, increasingly, digitally, serving as tangible references for designers, retailers, and consumers.