Chiffon Fabric
Chiffon is a lightweight, decorative fabric most commonly used in clothing such as ballgowns, lingerie and blouses. It was originally made from silk, with the term chiffon referring to the unique weaving process that creates its sheer texture. Nowadays, chiffon fabric is available in various materials, including polyester, nylon and rayon, giving you a wide choice of options for your next sewing project.
What is chiffon fabric?
Chiffon is the name of the weaving process that creates this lightweight, shimmery fabric. The first chiffon materials were made from silk, and later synthetic options such as rayon and polyester created inexpensive alternatives with a similar luxury feel.
What is chiffon fabric used for?
Chiffon is a popular fabric in the fashion world. Its sheer appearance and lightweight composition make it an ideal choice for decorative garments, including bridalwear, blouses, lingerie and sarees. It’s also used in homeware, such as ornate upholstery and curtains.
Chiffon fabric has many positive characteristics that make it a top choice for clothing and home accessories. These include:
· Drapes well
· Slight stretch
· Durable
· Shimmery appearance
· Colourfastness
Caring for chiffon fabric
Caring for chiffon fabric differs depending on whether you purchase natural or synthetic chiffon. Natural materials such as silk chiffon are incredibly delicate and will need to be dry-cleaned. However, synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon chiffon can be hand-washed or cleaned on a gentle cycle at low temperatures. When drying, lay flat to avoid marks and loss of shape.
What to consider when buying chiffon fabric?
Chiffon has a variety of uses in sewing projects, and purchasing synthetic chiffon is an inexpensive way to add a touch of luxury to garments. However, when buying this fabric, there are a few things to consider, such as the quality of the material, shrinkage and colourfastness. These factors help you make the best choice for your next project.
