TextileGlossary.com

short length fibres, as distinct from continuous filaments, which are twisted together (spun) to form a coherent yarn. Most natural fibres are staple fibres, the main exception being silk which is a filament yarn. Most man-made staple fibres are produced in this form by slicing up a tow of continuous filament.

Short fibers, typically ranging from 1/2 inch up to 18 inches long. Wool, cotton, and flax exist only as staple fibers. Manufactured staple fibers are cut to a specific length from the continuous filament fiber.

staple: a natural fiber (raw cotton, wool, hemp, flax) that can be twisted to form yarn; "staple fibers vary widely in length".

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...

Flax is taken from the stalk of the Linum usitaatissimum plant. It is a long, smooth fiber and is cylindrical in shape with a length varying from 6 to 40 inches but averaging between 15 and 25...

A fine, firmly knit fabric made from cotton and sometimes rayon and nylon in a knitted, double knit construction. It has a very short soft nap and wears well. Nylon chamoisette is more often called...

A wavy, rippled or watered appearance on a woven rib fabric and that is produced by the action of heat and heavy pressure from rollers. NOTE: The appearance is caused by differences in the...

The ultimate form of artistic needlework, appliqué is the process of sewing something - usually a cutout fabric motif - to a garment or another fabric item for a decorative effect. Combine your...