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Fabric Guide

French Terry

French terry is a comfortable knitted fabric with a smooth outer surface and distinctive loops on the reverse. It is widely used for sweatshirts, hoodies, joggers and other comfortable clothing. Weight, composition and stretch can vary between qualities.

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French terry sweatshirt made from loopback fabric

ConstructionKnitted

ReverseDistinctive loops

WeightVaries by quality

StretchVaries by quality

Suitable forComfortable clothing

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The Fabric

What is French Terry?

French terry is a knitted fabric with a relatively smooth outer surface and small loops on the reverse. This looped construction distinguishes French terry from brushed-back sweatshirt fabric, where the reverse is brushed to create a soft, fleecy surface.

Not all French terry is the same. Composition, weight, thickness and stretch determine how soft or structured the fabric feels and which garments a quality is best suited to.

Variations by Quality

Possible Variations

CompositionOften cotton or a fibre blend

ReverseLooped structure

WeightVaries by quality

StretchVaries by quality

Always check the individual product specifications for the exact composition, width, weight, stretch and care instructions.

Uses & Selection

What is French Terry used for?

Sweatshirts & HoodiesClassic uses include comfortable sweatshirts, hoodies and casual tops.

JoggersSuitable for comfortable joggers and loungewear, depending on weight and stretch.

Dresses & SkirtsSofter qualities can be used for sporty, comfortable styles.

ChildrenswearA versatile choice for comfortable garments where freedom of movement is important.

Choosing the right quality: pay particular attention to weight and stretch. Lighter French terry has more drape, while a heavier quality gives more structure to sweatshirts, hoodies and joggers. For close-fitting styles, check how much the chosen quality actually stretches.

Care

Care Instructions

Pre-washing Often recommended before cutting for cotton-rich qualities

Washing Wash according to the instructions for the chosen quality

Drying Preferably air dry, or follow the individual product instructions

Bleaching Only when permitted by the individual product instructions

Good to Know

Sewing & Choosing

Pre-washing Often recommended for cotton-rich qualities when the finished garment will later be washed.

Cutting Use sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter and avoid stretching the knitted fabric while cutting.

Sewing Use a needle and stitch suitable for knitted fabrics and test the settings on an offcut first.

Finishing Finish seams appropriately for the quality and make sure stretch seams retain their elasticity.

Stretch The amount of stretch varies by quality; check this before choosing your pattern and size.

Choosing a Quality Compare weight, composition, stretch and drape for each French terry quality.

Alternatives

Similar Fabrics

These fabrics share similarities in comfort, stretch or use, but differ in construction, surface and weight.

Sweatshirt Fabric→

A comfortable knitted fabric that often has a soft brushed reverse.

Jersey→

A lighter knitted fabric with a soft drape for a wide range of garments.

Cuffing→

Stretchy ribbed fabric mainly used for neckbands, cuffs and garment finishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

French Terry FAQs

What is the difference between French Terry and Sweatshirt Fabric?

French terry has distinctive loops on the reverse. Many sweatshirt fabrics have a brushed reverse instead, giving them a softer, fleecier feel.

Is French Terry stretchy?

This varies by quality and composition. Always check the stretch of the individual product.

Is French Terry suitable for hoodies?

Yes. French terry is widely used for hoodies, sweatshirts and joggers because of its comfortable knitted construction.

Should French Terry be pre-washed?

For cotton-rich qualities, pre-washing is often recommended if the finished garment will later be washed. Always follow the care instructions for the individual product.

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Explore the available French terry qualities, colours, weights and current product specifications.

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