Decorative Woven Fabric Derivatives (Common Fabrics)

Corduroy is easy to recognize — those vertical ribs (called wales) give it away instantly.

It’s made by inserting extra weft yarns to form a pile, which is then cut. That’s what creates that soft, raised texture.

• Yarn: Cotton or cotton blends
• GSM: 200–300

What stands out:

• Ribbed surface
• Soft but slightly heavy feel
• Holds warmth quite well
• Fairly durable

Used in: Trousers, jackets, workwear

Oxford fabric has that subtle texture — not rough, just slightly raised.

It comes from a kind of basket weave, usually two warp yarns against one weft.

• Yarn: Cotton or blends
• GSM: 150–250

Key feel:

• Breathable
• Strong, but comfortable
• Easy to maintain

Used in: Shirts, blazers, casual wear

This one’s more functional than it looks at first.

The weave creates small geometric patterns — kind of like tiny diamonds or honeycombs — which actually improve absorbency.

• Yarn: Cotton or blends
• GSM: 200–400

Why it’s used:

• Highly absorbent
• Textured surface
• Holds up well in repeated washing

Used in: Towels, cleaning cloths, medical textiles

Mock leno gives that open, mesh-like look — but without the complexity of real leno weaving.

It’s created using dobby or jacquard techniques instead of twisting warp yarns.

• Yarn: Cotton or blends
• GSM: 150–300

Feels like:

• Light, breathable
• More stable than actual leno
• Functional but still decorative

Used in: Sportswear, workwear, home textiles

Velvet is all about surface feel.

Extra warp yarns create a dense pile, which is cut to give that smooth, almost glossy finish.

• Yarn: Cotton, silk, or synthetics
• GSM: 250–600

What you notice:

• Very soft surface
• Rich, slightly shiny look
• Drapes well

Used in: Formal wear, décor, accessories

Terry fabric doesn’t cut the pile — it keeps it in loops.

Those loops are what make towels so absorbent.

• Yarn: Cotton or blends
• GSM: 200–400

Key features:

• High absorbency
• Bulky and soft
• Durable

Used in: Towels, bathrobes, cleaning textiles

This one is more about pattern than texture.

Small, broken geometric shapes give it a bit of visual interest without being too loud.

• Yarn: Cotton, polyester blends
• GSM: 150–300

Look & feel:

• Subtle pattern
• Decent durability
• Medium weight

Used in: Jackets, trousers, home textiles

More bold compared to crow’s feet.

That broken-check pattern is pretty iconic — sharp contrast, easy to spot.

• Yarn: Cotton, polyester blends
• GSM: 150–300

Characteristics:

• Strong visual impact
• Classic style
• Firm structure

Used in: Formal fashion, outerwear, décor

You can actually see the small “cells” in this one — like a honeycomb.

It’s not just aesthetic though, it boosts absorbency too.

• Yarn: Cotton or blends
• GSM: 200–400

What it gives:

• 3D texture
• Good durability
• Moisture handling

Used in: Towels, wipes, crafts

Mesh is more about openness than structure.

Yarns are spaced out intentionally to create visible holes, which improves airflow.

• Yarn: Cotton, polyester, nylon, spandex
• GSM: 60–120

Main qualities:

• Very breathable
• Lightweight
• Flexible

Used in: Sportswear, linings, fashion layers

Lace is more delicate — almost decorative first, functional second.

Created through detailed patterns with open spaces, often quite intricate.

• Yarn: Cotton, silk, synthetic blends
• GSM: 30–80

What stands out:

• Sheer appearance
• Fine detailing
• Lightweight feel

Used in: Lingerie, blouses, curtains

Jacquard is probably the most flexible of all.

Each warp yarn is controlled individually, so you can weave complex designs directly into the fabric.

• Yarn: Almost anything — cotton, silk, polyester, blends
• GSM: 30–300

Why it’s popular:

• Detailed patterns
• Strong structure
• Works for both light and heavy fabrics

Used in: Fashion, upholstery, curtains