TextileGlossary.com

A force which tends to cause rotation, usually due to twist having been inserted into a yarn or removed from a yarn (see twist liveliness).

A term applied to a type of nylon yarn which has been through processing to introduce a high level of twist. This creates a yarn with some recovery but without "bulk" associated with texturised yarns. A style made from these yarns is sometimes called Volie. The fabrics made from Torque yarns have excellent sheerness for a given denier and bright surface appearance. However the overall cling properties in wear are limited and multiple sizes are needed to get a good fit.

General name for a horizontal wood part. In upholstery, used for support and for a tacking surface. Also crest rails on headboards and dining chairs, chair rails on walls, horizontal parts of a frame...

Shag (fabric) is typically used to make a deep-pile carpets. This is the oldest use of the term. Shag carpet is sometimes evoked as an example of the aesthetic from the culture of the U.S. 1970s....

Cutting fabric diagonally across the grain, causing the material to drape fluidly and elegantly across the body. Expensive due to it's inefficient use of fabric. Often used for silk or satin dresses...

This is the wool that is taken from sheep before they reach the age of 7 months. It is soft, slippery, resilient and smooth and has superior spinning properties. It is used in fine grade woolen...

The density of a material divided by the density of water. Expressed as a number greater than 0. Materials with specific gravity less than 1.00 will float and materials with specific gravity greater...