BASIC DIFFERENCES BETWEEN NATURAL, SYNTHETIC & BLENDED FABRICS

Understanding the differences between natural, synthetic, and blended fabrics helps you choose the right material for specific needs and know how to care for them properly.

Last year I did a video series on the basics of #fabrics which you can check out here

I also did another video on how you can test different types of fabrics to best gauge which type you want to work with for different sewing projects.

In this article, I have opted to share some of the most popular fabric types globally and their features so you can have an idea of what they are like. This article does not exhaust the complete list of fabrics since more are innovated all the time.

Natural Fabrics

Natural fabrics are made from fibers derived from plants or animals. They are generally more breathable and biodegradable but may require more care.

Synthetic Fabrics

Synthetic fabrics are made from chemical compounds, usually derived from petroleum. They tend to be more durable and less expensive but may have a negative environmental impact.

Blended Fabrics

Blended fabrics combine natural and synthetic fibers to leverage the best properties of each. Blends can improve durability, comfort, and cost-effectiveness.

In Summary

• Natural Fabrics: Derived from plants or animals (e.g., cotton, wool, silk, linen). Pros include breathability and biodegradability; cons include requiring more care.
• Synthetic Fabrics: Made from chemical compounds (e.g., polyester, nylon, acrylic, spandex). Pros include durability and cost-effectiveness; cons include environmental impact and lower breathability.
• Blended Fabrics: Combine natural and synthetic fibers to balance benefits and drawbacks, improving performance and reducing costs.

By understanding the source and characteristics of each fabric type, you can make informed decisions about clothing purchases and care.

NOTE: This list is of the most popular fabrics in these categories, there are many more fabrics in each category.

I look forward to engaging with you in the comments.