fabric

Fabric is a material composed of fibers woven, knitted, felted, or otherwise bonded to form a flexible sheet. Fabrics are typically classified by the types of fibers used—natural such as cotton, wool, silk, linen, and hemp; or synthetic such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic—and by the method of construction, including woven, knitted, or nonwoven forms.

Most fabrics begin with fibers that are spun into yarns, which are then interlaced through weaving or knitting. Other methods, such as felting and bonding, produce nonwoven textiles. Natural fibers come from plants or animals, while synthetic fibers are manufactured from polymers. The performance of a fabric depends on its fiber properties, yarn structure, fabric weave or knit, and finishing treatments.

Weaving creates fabrics by interlacing warp and weft yarns; knitting produces fabric by interlocking loops; nonwoven fabrics are made by bonding fibers with heat, adhesive, or mechanical entanglement. Finishing processes, including dyeing, printing, and chemical or mechanical finishes, impart color, texture, or performance characteristics such as water repellency, flame resistance, or wrinkle resistance.

Common fabric types include cotton broadcloth, denim, silk satin, wool gabardine, linen, and various synthetics like polyester twill. Blends combine fibers to balance properties such as strength, softness, and cost. The choice of fabric affects appearance, drape, durability, and care requirements.

Uses span clothing and apparel, home textiles, upholstery, and industrial applications. Care varies by fiber and finish; improper washing or drying can cause shrinkage or damage. Environmental considerations include water use, dye effluents, and microplastic release, with sustainable practices such as organic or recycled fibers, responsible dyeing, and certifications like OEKO-TEX or GOTS.