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Information about Twill Fabric

Samarpita Choudhury
Clothes not only form one of the primary needs of man, but are also the means with which people can make a style statement. Also, the fabric of clothing tells a multitude about the person who wears a particular piece of cloth. This story talks at length about one such fabric, the twill fabric which makes up for many a formal wear.
The more, the better
The higher the number of threads used to weave the twill fabric, the more durable it tends to become. The interplay of various fibers together creates a network in order to give the final finished material of a fabric or cloth.

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The yarn is woven together in specific patterns to give the desired material. This weaving technique varies, thus resulting in different types of fabric. The style of weaving is responsible for asserting the different properties to the fabric. One such weaving pattern has produced a very popular fabric type, called the twill fabric.
A twill fabric is a kind of fabric which has got diagonal ribs over it, instead of longitudinal. This lends the unique structure to the twill fabric. This pattern of weaving diagonal lines over the fabric is called twilling, and hence the name, twill fabric.
These diagonal lines are known as wales. It is considered to be one of the most important weaves that are used on looms. In twill weave processing, the pattern of weave is exhibited in the form of a fraction.
For example, 2/3. The numerator (2) is the number of threads that are passed over, and the denominator (3) is the indicator of the threads that are passed under.
Weaving Pattern
Warp is the thread which is placed longitudinally in a roll. The weft thread is drawn through these longitudinal threads to make a piece of cloth. The diagonal pattern in twill fabric is created by passing the weft over the warp, and then passing it under multiple warp threads.

Properties of Twill

  • One distinguishing property of the twill fabric is that it possesses two sides, one is the front side, and the other is the back side. This is in contrast to other fabric types, which do not have two different sides. The front side of a twill fabric is the more attractive side.
  • It is a light fabric, hence not suitable for making fabrics that could be used in cold weather.
  • It is resistant to staining. Since there is a large network of interwoven threads, staining can be easily avoided in this type of fabric.
  • The number of creases in the fabric is always on the lower side. Therefore, many brands that manufacture clothing of this fabric, promote their products as 'wrinkle-free'.
  • The 'twilling' pattern of weaving itself makes it more durable compared to other varieties of fabric.
  • The fabric is also water-resistant.
  • Flexibility is yet another interesting feature of the fabric.
Given here are the names of two of the most widely used variants of Twill fabric, that are used in many ways. Let us find out the nuances which make them such wonderful choices among people of all age groups with different requirements.

Cotton Twill

Cotton twill is one of the many textile types that has the incorporation of the twill pattern of weaving. It happens to be one of the best fabrics to weave a twill pattern. We get to see the uses of cotton twill in formal clothing line, like the ones used in shirts, skirts, suiting et al.
One of the most eye-catchy attire is the khaki colored chino pants which is known for all the good reasons. The use of cotton twill is not just limited to clothing, in fact we also find its use in shower curtains, heavy cotton twill curtains, caps, bags, backpacks, tapes and the like.
It is also easy to maintain, as most often, it can be washed at home. The biggest advantage to use it is that it doesn't allow the dirt and foreign particles to stick to it, which is the characteristic feature of twill fabric.

Herringbone

If you are a fan of the characteristic 'V' shaped patterns displayed on many fabric, then know it is one of the patterns most used on twill fabric. The most commonly used type of clothing designed with this pattern is the suiting range. It appears like ribs on both sides.
The name depicts the shape of a herringbone fishtail. Italy, known for many things, is also famous for being one of the first places to have used this pattern on twill fabric.
Yet another country to have flaunted several winter wear and sportswear using this, is Ireland. This is a neutral design, but over a period of time, this design has been in use in several men's clothing lines. Although a traditional design, this design has been making rounds even on contemporary outfits too.
More Examples of Twill Fabric:
  • Gabardine
  • Velvet
  • Jean
  • Denim
  • Oxford
This fabric type is known for its sturdiness, and its ability to ward off dirt. Therefore maintaining it properly would help it last longer. It should be kept away from direct sunlight. So when drying, it should be dried in cool areas. This keeps shrinking of the cloth at bay. It can be washed with ease in washing machines.