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Sweatshirt Fabric

Sweatshirt fabric is a comfortable knitted fabric widely used for sweatshirts, hoodies, joggers and loungewear. The outer surface is usually smooth, while the reverse may have visible loops or a soft brushed finish depending on the quality. Composition, weight, thickness and stretch vary between qualities.

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Soft sweatshirt fabric for sweatshirts and comfortable clothing

ConstructionKnitted

ReverseLoopback or brushed

StretchVaries by quality

WeightFrom lightweight to heavyweight

Suitable forSweatshirts, hoodies & loungewear

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The Fabric

What is Sweatshirt Fabric?

Sweatshirt fabric is a knitted fabric designed for comfortable casual clothing. The face is generally relatively smooth. On the reverse, the characteristic knitted loops may remain visible or be brushed to create a soft, fleece-like surface.

Sweatshirt fabric does not have one fixed fibre composition. Many qualities are cotton-rich and may be blended with polyester or elastane, although other fibre blends are also available. Composition, weight, reverse-side finish and stretch determine how warm, fluid and shape-retaining a particular quality is.

Variations by Quality

Possible Variations

CompositionOften cotton or a fibre blend

ReverseLoopback or softly brushed

WeightFrom lightweight to heavyweight

StretchVaries by quality

Important: always check the individual product specifications for exact composition, width, weight, stretch, reverse-side finish and care instructions.

Uses & Selection

What is Sweatshirt Fabric used for?

Sweatshirts & HoodiesThe classic choice for comfortable sweatshirts, hoodies and casual tops.

JoggersSuitable for joggers, shorts and comfortable trousers, depending on weight and stretch.

LoungewearFor soft lounge sets, relaxed co-ords and other comfortable garments.

Babywear & ChildrenswearWidely used for trousers, sweatshirts, cardigans and other comfortable garments.

Choosing the right quality: pay particular attention to weight, reverse-side finish and stretch. A lighter sweatshirt fabric drapes more softly, while a heavier or brushed quality feels warmer and fuller. For close-fitting styles, sufficient stretch and recovery are important.

Care

Care Instructions

Pre-washing Often advisable before sewing 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 advisable for cotton-rich sweatshirt fabric when the finished garment will later be washed.

Cutting Lay the fabric flat without stretching it and avoid stretching the knit while cutting.

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

Finishing Sweatshirt fabric generally frays very little, but seams need to retain enough stretch for the intended use.

Stretch while Sewing Avoid unnecessarily stretching the fabric while cutting and sewing, as this can cause seams to become wavy.

Choosing a Quality Compare composition, weight, reverse-side finish, stretch, recovery and care instructions for each sweatshirt fabric quality.

Alternatives

Similar Fabrics

French terry, fleece and jersey can be used for some of the same comfortable clothing applications, but differ in reverse-side finish, thickness and appearance.

French Terry →

A knitted fabric with distinctive loops on the reverse, generally less fluffy than brushed sweatshirt fabric.

Fleece →

A soft, insulating fabric for warm clothing, blankets and accessories, with a distinctly different surface from sweatshirt fabric.

Jersey →

A lighter, more fluid knitted alternative for T-shirts, dresses, leggings and other comfortable garments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sweatshirt Fabric FAQs

What is Sweatshirt Fabric?

Sweatshirt fabric is a knitted clothing fabric with a usually smooth face. The reverse may retain visible loops or be softly brushed.

What is the difference between Sweatshirt Fabric and French Terry?

French terry has distinctive loops on the reverse. Many sweatshirt fabrics have a brushed reverse instead, creating a softer, fluffier feel.

Is Sweatshirt Fabric always stretchy?

Because of its knitted construction, sweatshirt fabric generally has some natural stretch. The amount of stretch and recovery varies by quality and may be increased by the addition of elastane.

Is Sweatshirt Fabric always made from cotton?

No. Many sweatshirt fabrics are cotton-rich, but polyester, elastane and other fibre blends are also available. Always check the composition of the individual product.

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