What is Twill Fabric? Properties, How Made, Where Used

Twill is a term used in the textile industry but many professionals ignore its importance and versatility. Known for its durability, texture, and flexibility, twill produces a thick and durable fabric suitable for various applications, including clothing and upholstery.

In this blog we will explore the properties of twill fabric, how it’s made, where it’s used and how to source it. Whether you’re a manufacturer or designer this guide will give you a deeper understanding of twill cloth fabric and why it’s a must have in the textile industry.

What is Twill Fabric?

Twill fabric is a fabric woven in twill weave pattern—a diagonal rib pattern created by interlacing the weft threads (horizontal yarns) over and under the warp (vertical yarns) in a repeated sequence. This gives a diagonal line on the fabric’s surface which distinguishes it from plain weave fabric.

Twill is used for its functionality and aesthetics and has many options to suit many applications. From twill weave cotton to polyester blends there are many types of twill fabric each with its own properties for specific use.

Properties of Twill Fabric

Here’s what makes twill fabric loved across industries:

1. Durability

Sturdy fabric like twill is very strong due to its tight weave. It’s perfect for heavy use products like workwear, upholstery and denim. Its wear and tear resistance means long lasting performance even under heavy use.

2.2 2. Texture and Diagonal Pattern

The diagonal weave of twill creates a smooth yet textured surface, resulting in a strong, thick fabric that adds elegance to clothing and home textiles. It’s luxurious finish but less likely to show stains so perfect for daily use.

3. Drapability

Twill weave properties gives it good drape. The softness and flow of twill fabric allows it to drape beautifully making it a favorite for garments and curtains that need to look polished.

4. Breathability

Although tightly woven twill weave fabric is breathable and moisture wicking. This is very useful in applications like activewear and workwear where comfort is key.

How is Twill Cloth Fabric Made?

The Weaving Process

The making of twill fabric starts with the weaving process. Twill weaves are characterized by its diagonal patterns which is achieved by shifting the interlacing point of warp threads and weft yarns in each row. This can be done with natural fibers like cotton or wool or synthetic fibers like polyester.

Types of Twill Weave

There are many types of twill weaves, created by varying the weft and warp threads:

Standard Twill Weave: Evenly spaced diagonal lines, used in denim and uniforms.
Herringbone Twill: Alternates direction to form a zigzag pattern, used in jackets and formalwear.
Diagonal Twill: More exaggerated diagonal lines for added visual effect.
Gabardine Twill: Tightly woven, used in suits and outerwear.

The choice of weave depends on the application and look.

Twill fabric can fit into many industries. Here’s how it’s used:

Types of Twill Fabric

Twill fabric comes in various types, each with its unique characteristics and uses. Here are some of the most common types of twill fabric:

Denim Twill: Known for its durability and versatility, denim twill is typically made from cotton or synthetic fibers. It’s the go-to fabric for jeans, jackets, and other sturdy clothing items.
Chino Twill: Lightweight and breathable, chino twill is often made from cotton or synthetic fibers. It’s perfect for making pants, shorts, and other casual wear.
Gabardine Twill: Made from wool or synthetic fibers, gabardine twill is renowned for its durability and water-resistance. This makes it ideal for coats, jackets, and other outerwear.
Herringbone Twill: Recognizable by its distinctive chevron pattern, herringbone twill is usually made from wool or synthetic fibers. It’s commonly used in suits, jackets, and other formal attire.
Diamond Twill: Featuring a unique diagonal pattern, diamond twill is made from cotton or synthetic fibers. It’s often used in workwear, uniforms, and other functional clothing items due to its durability.

Comparison with Plain Weave Fabric

Twill fabric is often compared to plain weave fabric, another popular textile weave. Here are some key differences between the two:

Weave Pattern: Twill fabric features a diagonal weave pattern, while plain weave fabric has a simple over-under pattern. This gives twill fabric its characteristic diagonal lines.
Durability: Thanks to its diagonal weave pattern, twill fabric is generally more durable than plain weave fabric. It offers greater strength and resistance to wear and tear.
Texture: Twill fabric has a more textured and dimensional appearance compared to the smooth and flat surface of plain weave fabric.
Uses: Twill fabric is commonly used for items that require durability and strength, such as jeans, jackets, and workwear. In contrast, plain weave fabric is often used for clothing items that need a smooth and soft texture, like dresses, shirts, and underwear.

Uses of Twill Fabric

Twill fabric is a versatile textile that can be used in a wide range of applications. Here are some of the most common uses:

Clothing: Twill fabric is popular for making jeans, jackets, pants, shorts, and skirts due to its durability and stylish appearance.
Workwear: Its strength and resistance to wear make twill fabric ideal for uniforms, overalls, and coveralls.
Upholstery: Twill fabric is often used in upholstery for sofas, chairs, and car seats because of its durability and attractive texture.
Bags and Accessories: The sturdy nature of twill fabric makes it perfect for bags, backpacks, and other accessories.
Home Textiles: Twill fabric is also used in home textiles like bed sheets, pillowcases, and tablecloths, offering both comfort and style.

1. Garment Manufacturing

Denim: The most popular application, denim has a classic blue twill weave. Denim jeans, known for their iconic diagonal twill weave, play a significant role in the textile industry due to their versatility and year-round wearability.

Outerwear and Suits: Gabardine twill’s tight weave makes it a luxury option for blazers, coats and trousers.

Blouses and Dresses: Lightweight twill fabric gives comfort and premium finish.

3.4 2. Cotton Twill in Sportswear and Workwear

A global sportswear brand showed how twill fabrics in activewear increased durability and breathability. The result? Higher customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Workwear brands trust twill weave cotton for uniforms because of its professional look, long lasting strength and comfort during long hours of wear.

3. Home Textiles

Twill’s drape and durability makes it a favorite for home furnishings:

Bedding: Comfortable, stylish and wrinkle resistant.
Curtains: Fluid drape for elegant look and dense weave for light blocking.
Upholstery: Can withstand daily use and adds depth to any decor.

Where to Buy Twill Fabric

When buying twill fabrics for your business:

Global Markets

China and India: Biggest producers, wide range of twill fabrics at competitive prices.
Europe: Premium twill for high end applications.
United States: Growing market for eco and organic twill fabrics.

When Sourcing

Fiber Content: Natural (e.g. cotton) or synthetic? Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon twill, can offer water resistance but are often associated with significant ecological harm. It is important to consider certifications for sustainable synthetic textile production.
Quality Standards: Work with suppliers that follow strict quality guidelines.
Sustainability: Look for suppliers that use eco friendly methods, organic cotton or recycled polyester blends. Sustainable materials not only reduce environmental impact but also appeals to conscious consumers.

Environmental Impact of Twill Fabric Production

The production of twill fabric can have significant environmental impacts, depending on the materials and processes used. Here are some key environmental concerns:

Water Pollution: The use of chemicals and dyes in the manufacturing process can lead to water pollution, affecting local ecosystems.
Energy Consumption: The production of twill fabric often involves high energy consumption due to the machinery and equipment used.
Waste Generation: The manufacturing process can generate waste, including raw material scraps and offcuts.
Carbon Footprint: The use of fossil fuels and other energy sources in production contributes to the carbon footprint of twill fabric.

To mitigate these impacts, many manufacturers are adopting more sustainable practices, such as using organic cotton, recycled polyester, and waterless dyeing techniques.

Caring for Twill Fabric

Twill fabric is durable and relatively easy to care for, but it still requires some maintenance to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips:

Washing: Machine wash twill fabric in cold water to prevent shrinkage and color fading. Avoid using hot water or harsh detergents.
Drying: Tumble dry on a low heat setting to maintain the fabric’s integrity. Avoid high heat or over-drying, which can weaken the fibers.
Ironing: Iron on a low heat setting to smooth out wrinkles. Avoid using steam or high heat, which can damage the fabric.
Storage: Store twill fabric in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent mold and fading.

By following these care tips, you can ensure that your twill fabric items remain in excellent condition for years to come.

Twill Fabric in the Textile World

Sustainability in Twill Production

A great example is a sustainable fashion brand that introduced organic cotton twill weave in their collection. This got a lot of attention from eco conscious buyers and showed the possibility of ethical manufacturing.

Sustainability in textile production is shaping the future of twill. From organic certifications to waterless dyeing, today’s innovations is leading the way to a greener industry.

Emerging Trends and Features

Smart Textile Integration: There’s interest in combining twill weave with smart textile technology for moisture control and UV protection.
Premium Blends: Expect hybrid performance in luxury and functional pieces with natural and synthetic fiber blends.
Digital Design Tools: CAD assisted fabric design makes it easier to design custom twill weaves for niche applications.

Conclusion

Twill fabric has proven itself to be a durable, versatile and stylish fabric that fits into many industries. From denim and uniforms to luxury outerwear and home textiles, it’s a fabric for everyone in the manufacturing and design world.

Looking for twill fabrics to upgrade your products? Make sure your sourcing approach focuses on durability, sustainability and ethics. Then you’ll be ahead of the game in the textile industry and appealing to today’s conscious consumers.

Get in touch with us today to talk about twill fabric for your designs.

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