16Types of Corduroy Fabric: A Complete Guide for Fabric Lovers

Corduroy isn’t just a throwback fashion statement. It’s a favorite among fashion designers, bakers, and even collectors because it is so versatile. Because of the many types of corduroy fabric, you are bound to find one that fits your preferences. From the gentle soft pinwale to the striking elephant cord, each type is unique in its own way. In this guide, you will learn about 20 types of them, all explained in a way that is easy to grasp. This guide is perfect for you whether you are curious, sewing clothes, or choosing upholstery. So, let’s jump into the world of corduroy.

What Is Corduroy Fabric?

Corduroy is a fabric woven from twisted fibers that lie side by side in parallel rows. These rows form raised lines referred to as “wales.” Because of this, corduroy has a textured surface reminiscent of stripes. It has a soft but rigid feel which makes it great for fashion and home use. Most often, the fabric is made of cotton, but you can also find it blended with other materials like polyester and elastane for stretch.

“What’s So Special About Corduroy Today?”

Uh-oh, watch out! Corduroy is back in style, and no one’s complaining. People love its retro allure, while its warmth and softness make it perfect for winter. Corduroy is chic and stands out from flat fabrics. No one can forget its durability. Nowadays, people wear it do in trendy jackets, pants, and even bags. As for the other types of uses, corduroy fabric adds a blend of comfort and style. That is why it is loved today.

“Why And How Is Corduroy Made?”

Manufacturers weave more fibers into the base cloth to form waist loops. They then cut these loops to create ridges. These ridges, called wales, are brushed to make them softer and warmer. The number of wales per inch determines the thickness of the fabric. The end result is a textured and sturdy piece of fabric.

Wale in Corduroy Explained

Wale is the count of vertical ridges in one inch of a corduroy fabric. Fine wale has more ridges while wide wale has fewer. For instance, pinwale may have 16-21 wales per inch. Elephant cord may have as few as 2-4. The wale count affects the look and behavior of the fabric. Finer wales gives soft, flexible fabric while wider wales are bold and structured. Having the right wale lets you choose the right type for your project.

Differences Between Clothing and Upholstery Corduroy

Not all corduroy are of the same type. Fashion corduroy is lighter and hence easier to sew. It works great for pants, skirts, or even jackets. Upholstery corduroy is heavier and stronger. It is also great for cushions, sofas, and chairs. Clothing corduroy often has finer wales, while wider wales are used on upholstery types of corduroy fabric for a bold look. Understanding where the fabric is going to be used helps in fabric selection. Make sure to check the weight and wale before buying.

Fine-Wale Corduroy

Fine-wale corduroy has thin ridges that are 16 and over per inch. It is soft and light in texture. It is ideal for baby garments, shirts, and blouses. This type of fabric drapes well and is easy to cut and sew. Its softness makes it suitable for lightweight scarves and other accessories. Fine-wale sew projects are popular for soft and subtle designs and flexible construction.

Wide-Wale Corduroy

Wide-wale corduroy has thick ridges between 4 to 8 per inch. It is heavier and warmer than fine-wale types corduroy fabric. This makes it ideal for winter coats, jackets, and trousers. This type of corduroy also has a distinctive bold texture. It adds a vintage and structured look to clothes. It is also used in home decor such as cushions and throws. The fabric is warm and durable, perfect for heavily used items.

Pinwale Corduroy

Pinwale is more delicate than fine-wale and can have up to 21 wales per inch. Its texture is smooth to the touch and gently raised like velvet. With this texture, it is popular for baby clothes and lightweight dresses. It doesn’t feel bulky and is easy to shape. For sewing soft, delicate items that require a gentle touch, pinwale is ideal. It can also be used for lightweight accessories such as headbands or pockets.

Standard Corduroy

Standard corduroy is the most common type. It usually has 10 to 12 wales per inch. It offers the perfect balance between softness and strength. This makes it ideal for pants, skirts, and even jackets. This type of corduroy is easy to sew, and maintains its shape. Many people choose standard corduroy for everyday clothing. It is also used for backpacks and tote bags. This fabric is a good choice for beginners and pros alike.

Bedford Cord

Although Bedford cord appears similar to corduroy, it differs in one key detail – the lack of cut ridges. Unlike corduroy, Bedford cord features woven-in ribs instead of cut pile ridges. Although it does not have the soft fluff of corduroy, it possesses smooth strength. This fabric is used mostly in uniforms and workwear. It’s tough and endures considerable wear and tear. While not a true corduroy, it shares the ridged appearance. Designers choose Bedford cord when they need strength along with a flatter look than corduroy provides.

Elephant Cord

Recognized for its exceptionally wide wales, elephant cord features bulky ribs. With only 2 to 4 ridges per inch, the texture is thick and bold. The fabric is used to make eye-catching jackets and vintage style trousers. Its warm and durable properties make it stand out greatly. It works well in winter garments as well, where it feels heavy. In addition, decorators often use this fabric for robust upholstery in home décor. Its strength and texture add bold character to any project.

Pincord Corduroy

Pincord resembles pinwale, but it is finer and more delicate. It’s easier to cut and quite light. Pincord suits the making of detailed garments or tightly sewn pieces of clothing. The softness of pincord makes it ideal for infants and items that are hand stitched. Pincord fabrics have dye retention and come in bright and fun shades. Small decorative items can also be made from pincord. Pincord is popular with crafters who work with soft materials.

Stretch Corduroy

The inclusion of spandex or Lycra in the weave of stretch corduroy makes it softer and easier to wear. Stretching with the body makes it ideal for skinny jeans and fitted dresses. Avoiding stiff fabrics is another benefit provided by stretch corduroy. It is easier to sew than one may imagine. For comfort and modern feel, stretch corduroy fabric types are best.

Printed Corduroy

Printed corduroy incorporates designs such as flowers, dots, or checks. The fabric is printed after it is woven and brushed. This type of corduroy adds style to everyday clothing. You can find it in dresses and shirts, as well as in various craft projects. It is also used in children’s clothing because of its bright and fun colors. Printed corduroy invigorates the classic texture. It is best suited for light to medium-weight fabrics.

Crushed Corduroy

Crushed corduroy is a type that has a bumpy and uneven texture. It is crushed during finishing to create this effect. This type is soft, supple, and very casual. The fabric has a cozy, worn vibe and works well for comfy clothes. It is also used for creative home decor like pillow covers. Unique as it is, this fabric does not easily show wrinkles. This makes it perfect for travel clothes and simple sewing projects.

Embossed Corduroy

The floral or dot patterns that are corkscrewed into the fabric of embossed corduroy make it unique. It is used for special pieces and can be found in decorative pillows, embossed dresses as well as coats. Items made from such fabric do not require extra layers. Corduroy is suitable for both soft and tailored garments.

Organic Corduroy

As no harmful chemicals are used on certified organic cotton, organic corduroy is eco-friendly. This type of fabric is safe for sensitive skin which is why it is used for baby items. It is preferred by people who live a green lifestyle. If sustainability matters to you, these fabrics are a good choice as the feel matches that of traditional corduroy.

Synthetic Corduroy

Synthetic corduroy is used in outdoor clothing, bags, and uniforms. It is made from polyester or nylon fibers and is better than cotton because of its waterproofing features and faster drying rate. Although it is not as breathable as natural fibers, it is more colorfast and lasts longer. If you are prioritizing strength over softness, this option is great.

Corduroy Blends

Blended corduroy incorporates cotton along with other materials, such as wool, rayon, or spandex. Each blend serves a distinct purpose. Wool adds warmth while spandex provides stretch. Rayon contributes a shine. All blended fabrics are the best of both worlds; they are softer, stronger, or easier to wear. This enhances modern clothing and accessories.

Corduroy Velvet

Corduroy velvet combines the softness of velvet with the texture of corduroy. It has a rich appearance and plush feel. You can find it in formal jackets and other accessories. The ridges are smooth and subtle, which enhances the overall polish. Corduroy velvet provides a luxurious feel without the stiff structure of traditional corduroy. It’s perfect for times when you want comfort and class.

Garment-Washed Corduroy

Pre-washed garment corduroy is soft and ready to wear right off the rack. Because it has already undergone some washing, it will not shrink much, helping the item feel like an old favorite shirt. This fabric is common for casual apparel and loungewear. Garment-washed fabrics are low maintenance and can be machine washed without restrictions.

How to Select the Best Type of Corduroy

Start by considering what you’re making. Fine-wale is best for shirts and baby clothes. Wide-wale works for jackets or even sofas. Want comfort? Stretch is a good option. Bold? Try elephant cord. Your choice makes a big difference on how your project functions and the ease of working with it. Also pay attention to the fabric weight and wale count.

Maintenance of Corduroy Fabric

Always wash the fabric turned inside out. Use cold water and gentle soap. For drying, air drying is better to avoid high temperatures and preserve the smoothness of the wales. If ironing is necessary, use low heat and a press cloth, keeping the iron away from direct contact. Gently brush the ridges to restore the texture. These practices help maintain softness and durability.

Common Errors to Avoid

Avoid direct ironing on corduroy as it will crush the ridges. Always pre-wash before cutting to minimize shrinkage. Use appropriate needle size and test on scraps before attempting the real patchwork. Do not stitch without checking for fabric direction alignment and ensure the wale is facing the same direction during the cut. Avoid excessive handling as it will affect the texture negatively.

Conclusion

Corduroy is not just a single fabric, but a whole universe of options. Having learned 20 distinct types of corduroy fabric, you can now create, decorate or shop without hesitation. Every object has its own use, be it bold and structured or fine and flexible. Explore and experiment with this timeless fabric.
Read more What is corduroy fabric

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