Blended Fabrics

Blended fabrics are those that are made from both natural and, or synthetic fibers. At least 2 or more different kinds of fibers are woven together to make the finished fabric.

Natural fibers can be blended with other natural fibers to create a natural blend, which is favorable for making comfortable clothes. However, they can also be blended with synthetic fibers in order to bring about unique fabric blends and textures. As with natural fibers, synthetic fibers can also be blended solely with other synthetics.

There are many benefits to blending fabrics because many different textures can be created for various different uses. The idea behind blended fabrics is to combine fibers with certain qualities with fibers of other qualities that complement each other.

An example would be a cotton and polyester blend. Cotton is comfortable to wear, however, it wrinkles easily. Polyester, on the other hand, does not wrinkle. When the two are combined, it results in a comfortable, yet wrinkle-resistance fabric.

Another benefit of blending cotton with a synthetic is that cotton shrinks in the wash, while synthetics generally do not. So when the two are combined, the material is less likely to shrink as much.

The more natural fibers the fabric contains, the more comfortable the fabric will be to wear against the skin. This is because natural fibers contribute to a more breathable fabric that allows the skin to breathe. Also, natural blends are generally free from irritating chemicals as well.

The label on the end of the fabric bolt will generally state what fibers the fabric contains, as well as the care instructions. Finished clothing articles should have this information on the label.

Some of the most common blended fabrics are:

Polyester/Cotton

Nylon/Wool

Nylon/Acetate

Ramie/Polyester

Ramie/Acrylic

Wool/Cotton

Linen/Cotton

Linen/Silk

Linen/Rayon

Silk/Wool

Rayon/Cotton