tissu

Tissu is the French word for fabric or textile. In English, it is commonly translated as fabric or cloth. A fabric is a material made from fibers that are formed into sheets or structures usable for clothing, upholstery, and other products. Fabrics may be produced by weaving or knitting yarns, or by bonding and felting fibers. The category includes natural fibers, regenerated fibers, and synthetic polymers, as well as blends.

Fibers come from natural sources (cotton, linen, wool, silk), regenerative processes (viscose, lyocell), or synthetics (polyester, nylon, acrylic). Spun into yarns, fibers are then shaped into fabrics by weaving, knitting, or nonwoven processes. Weaves such as plain, twill, and satin differ in surface and weight; knits include jersey, rib, and interlock. Finishing steps like dyeing, printing, and finishing coats improve appearance, feel, and performance.

Fabric properties vary with fiber content, yarn thickness, weave or knit design, and finishing. Common considerations include strength, elasticity, drape, breathability, texture, and absorbency. Uses range from garments and home textiles to industrial products such as filters and geotextiles. Care varies with fiber type; some fabrics tolerate high heat, others require gentle washing or dry cleaning. Blends aim to combine desirable traits from different fibers.

Sustainability: the textile industry faces environmental concerns including water use, chemical input, energy consumption, and microplastic shedding. Some fabrics are produced with certifications such as GOTS, OEKO-TEX, or bluesign to indicate responsible practices. Trends include recycled fibers, natural dyes, and circular textile supply chains.