Cotton Twill
Twill Fabric
Identified by diagonal or parallel ridges, twill fabric is an iconic weave construction, which adds style, character and flare. A popular weave pattern identified by diagonal lines on the face of the fabric. Denim, chino, gabardine and drill are all types of twill fabric. It’s a great option for clothing as well as slip covers and upholstery applications, because of its durability, softness and resistance to wrinkles.
There are 3 kinds of basic twill fabric and each has its own purpose:
Lightweight – also known as surah or foulard. Lightweight twill fabrics are made of silk or synthetic fabric, such as polyester. Although the fabric used is thin, the weave makes it quite durable. This material is used for items such as neck ties, lingerie, slips and linings.
Heavy twill – also known as serge. Heavier twills are traditionally used for outerwear, such as trench coats. Thicker versions are used for work clothing.
Denim – generally has blue cotton yarns in one direction and white cotton yarns in the other direction. This emphasises the diagonal wales of the fabric. It is strong and durable and a very popular choice for jeans.
Properties
Twill material is instantly recognizable, thanks to its complex weave pattern, and it has certain properties which makes it suitable for a myriad of end uses.
It is durable
Robust
Easy to care for
Easy to repair
Can be water and air resistant
Has an attractive woven face
Has a high thread count
Has several variations
Advantages of twill fabric
The high thread count of twill, due to its tightly woven construction, gives this textile potential to be both water and wind resistant. If you are seeking a material which is sturdy and robust but still has a lovely drape, then twill fabric or cotton twill is the best option. Thanks to its diagonal weave, it drapes better than plain weave fabrics.
Another key advantage is that twill withstands heavy wear and tear, making it a great choice for home furnishings, outerwear and jeans. It doesn’t need to be ironed as frequently as a plain weave and is relatively easy to repair if it gets snagged.
