If you are looking to turn your outdoor living area into a place to relax and enjoy, then it is highly recommended that you invest in some decent outdoor textiles. They can be used in a variety of ways including as upholstery, drapery and even wall coverings. You can find these types of fabrics in an assortment of colours, patterns and textures.
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Having the right type of fabrics can mean the difference between a comfortable space and an uncomfortable one. While there are many types of fabric on the market, we'll focus specifically on what fabric is good for outdoors, how they’re made, and how to care for outdoor furnishings with fabrics – even fabric sofas.
What is outdoor fabric made of?
The fabric you choose can make a massive difference to your outdoor living space. Let's start by saying that fabric choice is the most important factor in creating an outdoor space. If you want to create a beautiful living room that makes you feel comfortable and happy, your choice of furniture will make all the difference.
The same goes for your garden! You might think that cushions and blankets are just as decorative as they are practical—but they have so much more potential than that! The kind of fabric you choose can make a massive difference to your outdoor living space, whether it's adding colour or texture or even creating privacy where there was none before.
One of the most common questions we get asked is: what is outdoor fabric made of?
The two primary types of outdoor fabrics are woven and non-woven. We'll take a closer look at each below:
- Woven fabrics have been woven on large looms that create a tight bond between individual yarns. Woven fabrics are strong and make great upholstery because they're durable and easy to clean.
- Non-woven fabrics don't have as much strength as woven fabrics, but they're easier to clean because they don't have any spaces between threads. Examples include vinyl and polyester mesh.
Water resistance and outdoor furniture fabrics
We’ve found that consumers are often confused between the terms ‘waterproof’ and ‘water resistant’, so we’re going to clear that up right now.
First off, does ‘outdoor fabric’ necessarily also mean that the fabric is waterproof or water resistant? Not necessarily. This is because ‘outdoor’ refers to fabrics that can withstand exposure to the elements outside, whether that’s rain or sun, or both, and is made from durable materials that are resistant to fading, water, mould, and mildew.
It doesn’t necessarily mean “waterproof” or “water-resistant” though – those terms are often used interchangeably with each other (or not at all), yet they mean different things entirely! If you want your outdoor furniture and other items to remain safe in the rain, it is important that you understand the difference between water-resistant and waterproof fabrics.
Waterproof items completely block the penetration of water through their fabric or material. Water-resistantfabric or material has a medium protection level, meaning that it will not completely repel water but is woven to deter it. Read more: Water repellent, water resistant and waterproof textiles: the facts
Outdoor fabrics don't have to be 100% waterproof since they're not exposed to rain or snow all year round. However, they do need to be able to resist moisture in the air and stay strong despite repeated exposure to UV rays from sunlight.
How Durable is Outdoor Fabric?
Some outdoor fabrics are more durable than others. This means that they can withstand harsher weather conditions, such as rain and snow. These fabrics typically won't fray or tear as easily as other fabrics.
It's important to remember that all fabrics can fray in some way or another. With the right care, however, you can make sure that your outdoor fabric lasts as long as possible.
Fraying is normal for some types of outdoor fabrics, such as cotton canvas or denim, because these fabrics don't have any treatment applied to them to prevent fraying. You'll want to keep this in mind when choosing your project fabrics so that you're not disappointed in the finished product! Fitting is also important with these types of fabrics because they will stretch out over time with wear and tear — especially if they're made from natural fibres like cotton or linen which are known for their elasticity.
Different types of upholstery and drapery fabric that are perfect for outdoor use
When choosing the right fabric for your outdoor space, there are many things to consider. The type of fabric you choose will depend on how it will be used, how much sunlight it receives, and what kind of weather conditions it will face.
Outdoor textiles come in many different types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
There are many kinds of outdoor fabrics, including acrylics, polyesters, and vinyl. Here are some basics:
- Solution-Dyed Fabric. Softer acrylic fabrics are dyed by immersing the fibre in a coloured solution as opposed to being dyed after they're woven together. They're more expensive than other types of acrylic fabric and won't be completely waterproof.
- Printed Fabric. For less money, you can purchase a polyester or acrylic fabric that has been printed. Printed fabrics fade faster than woven ones because the colour is impregnated into the fibres with dye instead of being part of their chemical composition.
- Vinyl Fabric.Vinyl fabric, which is often coated in a colour or pattern, is an affordable option but has limited use.
Outdoor fabrics that stand up to ultraviolet rays
Ultraviolet rays (UV) are one of the causes of fading because they can break down chemical bonds and fade the colour in an object. Other major contributors to fading include visible light and solar heat. There are three different kinds of light: ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared.
Fabrics made to withstand UV rays are easier to clean and last longer than those that don’t. UV protection is really important, especially if you’re using outdoor curtains for protection against light and heat. They are a stylish yet practical addition to your outdoor space, whether you want to shield yourself from the sun, or control the temperature in your porch, outdoor gazebo, or pergola.
But how exactly are fabrics protected against fading, even after prolonged exposure to UV rays?
UV rays can fade fabrics, so many of the treatments used on outdoor textiles are designed specifically to block or reflect them. The idea of colourfastness is broad once you look at it because colour can fade out of fabrics in so many different ways if they haven’t been engineered properly!
From rubbing through general wear and tear, to washing, ironing and light exposure: the colours in fabrics must be able to withstand them all.
Our extensive colour fastness testing is an essential part of the production of all FibreGuard fabrics: the vibrant colours and colour durability are two of the key FibreGuard characteristics that our customers love most. The tests are:
- Colour fastness to rubbing (standard: ISO 105-X12)
- Colour fastness to light (CFL) (standard ISO 105-B02)
- Colour fastness to water (standard ISO 105-E01)
- Colour fastness to washing (standard ISO 105-C0)
- Colour fastness to dry cleaning (standard ISO 105-D01)
FibreGuard Outdoor fabrics come in a wide range of colours and designs so you can easily match them to your existing décor or create something unique that suits your needs perfectly. We’ve engineered them rigorously to ensure the most robust colourfast to light-resistant results. The colourfast-to-light properties in our easy clean fabrics mean that their vibrant colours have been developed in such a way that they will not fade or be washed out, even after prolonged exposure to daylight in all seasons.
Explore our in-depth look at colourfastness and FibreGuard Outdoor fabrics here on our blog: 5 colourfastness tests that secure FibreGuard fabrics’ optimal fade protection
Mould, mildew, and outdoor textiles
Mould and mildew can be really bad for your outdoor fabrics and furniture but there are ways to make sure it doesn't gain a foothold. Outdoor textiles can be prone to mould growth and mildew. This is because they are exposed to moisture from rain and other sources, as well as being in contact with the ground, which increases the risk of fungal growth.
Mould and mildew like moisture – they thrive on it. If there is too much moisture in the air, then mould and mildew can quickly grow on fabrics. This can be a real problem if you have an outdoor sofa or sofa bed which you use regularly. Most of us have experienced this at some point, but there are steps that can be taken to avoid it happening again.
Causes of fungal growth on outdoor furniture
There are two main causes of mould growing on fabric: dampness combined with sunlight. When materials become wet, they begin to rot from within, creating perfect conditions for mould to grow. Sunlight also makes it easier for mould to thrive as it provides the fuel (UV rays) that they need to survive. The first line of defence against mould is also sunlight. Sunlight can naturally bleach any mould spores present in the fabric, so all you need to do is leave them in direct sunlight for a few hours or days and they'll disappear.
The key thing to remember here is that this doesn’t just apply to outdoor fabrics; if your indoor furniture is also made from natural materials (wooden tables, leather chairs etc.), then these can also become susceptible to mould growth if not taken care of properly!
Therefore, outdoor fabrics need anti-microbial and anti-bacterial attributes
Our FibreGuard Outdoor ranges are designed to resist bad odours, mould and mildew. This is because they're exposed to the elements - rain, sun, wind and snow - which can encourage bacterial growth if not treated correctly.
We recommend using anti-microbial or anti-bacterial options, such as FibreGuard Outdoor, for your outdoor furniture because these materials will stop mould from forming on hard-to-clean surfaces (such as seating).
These properties can help prevent mould from growing on your outdoor cushions, furniture, and rugs. They also make the fabric less hospitable for bacteria that cause bad odours, meaning you don't have to wash your outdoor textiles as often.
A handy guide to outdoor fabric maintenance
Being outdoors is fun, but it can also be hard on your outdoor fabrics. If you want your textiles to last as long as possible, you should regularly clean them.
The first thing you should do is ensure that the fabric or cushioning on your furniture is suitable for outdoor use. It's also important to be careful about where you position your furniture – avoid placing it directly next to trees or bushes where leaves can fall on it.
Ensure that your furniture gets spot cleaned regularly so that mould doesn't have time to form on its surface. When dirt and grime build up on your outdoor textiles, they become less effective at protecting you from UV rays or other elements of nature.
By removing these contaminants before they get embedded into your fabrics, you're extending their lifespan by keeping them in better condition for longer periods of time. How often should I clean my fabrics? For most fabrics that are designed for high-traffic areas such as porches or patios—including our FibreGuard Outdoor collection—you should spot clean them once or twice per year at the very least.
If you spot mould or mildew appearing on your fabric, try cleaning it off straightaway with warm water before it has time to set in.
Covering your furniture: If you're planning on leaving your outdoor furniture out overnight or during bad weather, cover them up! If you don't cover them up and leave them out in the rain or snow, they could get ruined by water damage or get covered in mould which could lead to breakouts of skin infections or allergies if anyone touches them. Also, pro tip: don't store anything wet!
If you must clean your textiles, consider the following:
- Don’t use any sort of chemical products on your textiles. Generally speaking, water and mild soap will do just fine (and they’ll also ensure that they stay good as new).
- If there is buildup on your textiles (i.e., sunscreen or oil), try rubbing with a damp cloth first before applying any soap; this will help prevent damage during washing processes.
- Storage/Cleaning: While it may seem counterintuitive at first glance (don't we want our stuff out in the open?) storing outdoor fabrics inside when they're not being used will extend their lifespan by several years. This can be done by rolling up furniture cushions or hanging them from hooks above head height—just don't store anything wet!
Conclusion: The right fabric is the key to keeping your outdoor space looking great.
You can choose from a variety of materials, and there is a variety of characteristics you need to know before you outfit your space.
Whether you're looking for contract outdoor fabric to reupholster patio furniture in commercial spaces, or simply want to make an easy, no-sew patio pillow for your own home, the project will require material made specifically for outdoor use.
You should always research and assess your needs before ordering anything online or impulsively buying fabric. Imagine making (or commissioning) a set of carefully upholstered garden cushions, only to watch them fade and fall apart in a matter of months—because you chose the wrong type of fabric.
Are you interested in taking style outdoors with FibreGuard Outdoor performance fabrics this season? Get in touch with us for region-specific contract information tailored to your needs.
When you're ready to start sourcing fabric for your next project, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, it's essential to understand the different types of fabrics. There are natural fibers like cotton and linen and synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. Each type of fabric has its unique benefits and drawbacks, so it's essential to choose the right one for your project.
You need to know where to look for the best deals on fabric. Local fabric stores can be a great resource, but you can also find good deals online. It is also important to ask yourself some key questions before you start sourcing fabric. What's your budget? What's the turnaround time for your project? How many yards do you need?
Answering these questions will help you source suitable fabric for your needs.
In this blog post, we'll explore the ins and outs of fabric sourcing, from where to find the best materials to how to negotiate prices. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge you need to make smart choices when it comes time to source fabrics for your next collection.
What is fabric sourcing?
Fabric sourcing" is a term thrown around a lot in the fashion industry, but what does it mean? To put it simply, fabric sourcing is finding and selecting the fabrics used to create a garment or product.
For those new to fashion fabrics, sourcing fabric and trims can be daunting. However, it is an obtainable goal with the proper education and guidance. When you have confidence in what you are talking about when it comes to sourcing fabrics for clothing production, you will offer more value to your clients.
Furthermore, you'll avoid headaches during production by saving time and money. By knowing what you're doing when speaking with suppliers and factories, they will take you seriously!
There are many factors to consider when sourcing fabrics, including quality, durability, cost, and environmental impact. The goal is to find the perfect balance of all these factors to create a product that looks great and will stand the test of time.
If you're interested in learning more about fabric sourcing, keep reading!
For more information, please visit disposable operation kit.
We'll cover everything from where to find fabrics to how to evaluate their quality.
Before you start your fabric search, ask yourself these questions.
If you're thinking of sourcing your fabrics, there are a few questions you need to ask yourself before you start. First, by addressing these questions, you'll save a lot of time and trouble.
What do I want to make?
Who am I designing it for?
What type of fabrics do I need?
How much fabric do I need?
What is my budget?
Where can I find the fabrics I need?
How can I be sure I'm getting the best deal on fabric?
How will I transport the fabric once I've sourced it?
What do I want to make?
The first question you should ask yourself when planning to source the fabric is, "What do I want to make?". This will help you determine the fabric you need and where to look for it.
If you know what you want to make, you're halfway there! The first step to sourcing fabric is deciding what kind of garment or project you want to create. Once you have a general idea, you can start brainstorming which fabrics will work best.
Who am I making this for?
Now that you are clear about the clothing brand or the type of clothes, you must consider who you are making this for. It can be for men, women, or children, everyday wear, or special occasions. This will help you decide on the fabric's style, weight, and texture.
Different types of fabrics are available in the market, each with unique properties. Therefore, selecting the right fabric according to your needs and requirements is important.
What Fabrics do I need for my Clothing Line?
The best way to source fabric is to have a plan and design sketches of the garments you want to produce. This allows you to see what materials will work best for each garment and avoid wasting time and money ordering fabric you won't use.
When sourcing fabric for your clothing line, it's essential to consider the fabric type and quality. The fabric you choose will depend on the garment you're making and the look you want to achieve. The quality of the fabric is just as important, especially if you're planning on selling your garments. No one wants to buy a poorly made garment that falls apart after one wash!
The basics of fabric construction
To start, "fabric" is a material created by joining fibers together. In most cases, a fabric is named after the fiber used to make it; some fabrics use different types of fibers.
The fabric can then be classified based on the fiber(s) used, its pattern and texture, and the production process employed. Another factor that comes into play for some fabrics is where the fibers originated from.
There are two main categories of fabrics: those made with natural fibers and those made with synthetic fibers. Within each category, there are further subcategories depending on how the fabric was produced (woven vs. knitted fabric).
Each construction has characteristics that make it suitable for specific applications.
Knit fabrics
Knit fabrics are produced by interlocking loops of yarn, which allows the fabric to stretch, making knit garments more comfortable to wear. Additionally, breathability is increased in knit fabrics since their construction allows air to circulate more quickly than other types of fabric. The trade-off for these properties is that knit fabric is more prone to snagging and running than other materials.
Woven fabrics
Woven fabrics are created by passing warp and weft yarns over and under at right angles. The weave pattern used will affect the properties of the fabric. For example, a twill weave is stronger and more resistant to tearing, while a satin weave has a smoother surface with a lustrous sheen. Woven fabrics don't usually stretch, so they might not be as comfortable to wear as knit fabrics. On the plus side, wovens don't snag or run efficiently either.
How to source fabric and types of fabric suppliers
Fabric sourcing is finding and selecting fabrics for use in a product. It involves research, sourcing, and choosing fabrics based on quality, price, style, and lead time. In addition, fabric sourcing is a critical part of the garment manufacturing process, as the fabric is one of the essential components of a garment.
There are two main types of fabric suppliers:
Fabric Mills
Companies that produce fabric from natural fibers like cotton and wool or synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon are called mills. They can be located worldwide, sometimes specializing in one type of fabric only.
Traders
Traders are companies that act as a go-between, purchasing fabrics from mills to sell them to garment manufacturers. They're often located in countries where a lot of garment manufacturing occurs, like China, Bangladesh, and India.Retail stores
Wholesaler
The wholesalers are the ones who buy from the manufacturers in bulk and sell them to the retailers. They have a wide range of products and sell them at a lower price than the retail stores.
Jobber
Typically, these fabric suppliers only carry a limited stock of leftover fabric from converters and fabric mills. They may sell it at reduced prices but won't usually restock once that specific fabric, print, or color is sold out. So if you're interested in a particular product, don't hesitate to purchase it then, as you most likely won't be able to find it again.
Fabric sourcing agent
Agents typically work with a large number of fabric suppliers and may be able to offer better deals because of their leverage with a fabric mill. Some agents work on commission, which gives them an incentive to find the best possible prices for their clients.
Trade Shows
Another great way to source the fabric you need is by attending trade shows. These events are where fabric suppliers from all over the world showcase their latest products. You'll be able to see and feel the fabrics in person, which can help you decide. Plus, you'll be able to negotiate prices and terms with the suppliers directly.
Referrals
If you know anyone in the garment manufacturing industry, they may be able to give you some good referrals for fabric suppliers. So it's always helpful to get recommendations from people you trust. From our years of experience, we put together a fabric sourcing guide available for purchase for $119.
Online
The easiest way to start your search for fabric suppliers is online. A quick Google search will reveal a long list of options, which can be overwhelming. Narrow your search by looking for suppliers specializing in the fabric you need. You can email them asking for samples and more information about their products.
Important Points to Remember in Sourcing your Fabric
You Get What You Pay For
The adage "you get what you pay for" is especially true regarding fabric sourcing. In general, the lower the price, the lower the quality. When sourcing fabric for your garments, it's essential to remember that fabric is often the most expensive part of the garment. It's worth investing in a higher-quality fabric that will look better and last longer.
There is No Standardization
Unlike other garment components such as zippers or buttons, there is no standardization in the world of fabrics. This can make it challenging to compare prices and quality between different vendors. So when you're sourcing fabric, be sure to ask lots of questions to ensure you're getting what you expect.
Fabric Sourcing Takes Time
Fabric sourcing is not a quick process. It can take months to find the right vendor and the right fabric for your garment. Be patient, and don't compromise on quality to save time.
Know Your Vendors
When sourcing fabric, it's crucial to establish relationships with your vendors. Get to know them and their products so you can be confident that you're getting what you need.
Availability
It is also important to ask the vendor about the availability of the fabric. Depending on the time of year and the fabric's popularity, it may not be readily available. If you need a large fabric, ask the vendor if they can accommodate your order.
Affordability
If you have got the right fabric supplier with the desired fabric, affordability is something you can not compromise on. With the market being highly competitive, there are chances that you may get the same fabric at a lower price from another vendor. Hence, it is essential to compare prices before finalizing a deal.
Terms You Need to Know Before Sourcing Fabric
Before you acquire fabric for your business or clients, here are some preliminary points you should know.
End Use
What is the fabric going to be utilized for? Figure this out by your reference samples and what you want to design. This will help narrow down which suppliers you approach.
Content
The fabrics used in this garment are essential to its final quality if you have a similar item to compare it to, great! If not, see what other garments of this type are made of and use that foundation for your research.
Fabric Weight
GSM is the metric used to measure a fabric's weight by determining how many grams per square meter it weighs. You don't need to calculate this, but knowing what it means will help you communicate better with vendors.
Fabric Construction
We can breakdown the construction of fabric into two categories: knits and wovens. Knits are created with a single interwoven yarn to create the desired material. On the other hand, Wovens use many different yarns running in both directions - top to bottom (known as weft) and right to left (known as warp). These yarns weave over and under each other until the final product is achieved. If you're unsure of what type of fabric you need for your project, don't fret! Most vendors will first ask whether you need a knit or woven fabric.
Special Finishes / Treatments
After the fabric is manufactured, additional treatments or finishes are often applied to achieve a particular look or feel. If you're looking for a specific finish, mention it to your vendor so they can direct you to the right product. Some standard finishes include:
Waterproofing
Fire retardant
Stain resistant
Wrinkle free
UV protection
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)
This is the minimum amount of fabric manufacturers will sell you. It's usually measured in yards or meters. Remember that the MOQ will generally be higher for less common fabrics, so if you're working with a tight budget, you may need to compromise on your fabric choice.
Fabric delivery lead time
This is the time it will take for your fabric to be delivered from the fabric manufacturer when you place your order. This can vary greatly depending on the vendor, the type of fabric, and the quantity you need. Ask your vendor about their lead time before placing your order.
Wrapping it up
As you better understand what to look for when sourcing fabric, keep these critical points in mind as you begin your search so you can find the perfect fabric for your project! Alternatively, if you’d like help sourcing, you can purchase a block of fabric sourcing hours and our team can assist you!
Want more information on SMS Lamination? Feel free to contact us.
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