Fabric Density and Weight

Fabric Density and Weight

Density: Fabric density refers to the number of warp and weft yarns per square inch, known as the warp and weft count. It is generally expressed as "warp count * weft count."

Generally speaking, the higher the fabric density, the better the smoothness, drape, and durability. For instance, garments made from high-density fabrics tend to be more structured and shapely.

Common cotton plain weave fabric densities are as follows:

• 20s: 60*60
• 40s: 110*70, 133*72, 133*100
• 60s: 70*70, 90*88, 110*110, 140*120
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Weight: This typically refers to the weight in grams per square meter of the fabric.

The most common method for testing fabric weight involves cutting a 10 cm² sample, weighing it on a scale, and then multiplying the weight by 1000 to obtain the weight in grams per square meter.

Misconceptions:

1. When comparing densities, it is not appropriate to compare them vertically but rather horizontally.

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   • 20s density fabric is not necessarily inferior to a 60s density fabric; the suitability depends on the intended use.
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   • It also does not mean that a 20s density fabric is see-through. In fact, a 20s density fabric with a count of 60*60 is opaque, whereas a 60s density fabric with a count of 110*110 and below may be see-through.
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2. There is a significant difference between high-density satin fabrics; generally, a fabric is considered high-density if the sum of the warp and weft counts exceeds 200. Therefore, the actual density should be examined.

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4. Weight is measured in grams per square meter, not per meter of fabric. Some sellers may misleadingly use the latter unit, so it is more accurate to look at fabric density.

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6. High-count, high-density fabrics have tightly woven yarns, resulting in a smoother and more structured feel. Buyers unfamiliar with these fabrics might mistakenly believe they are not made of pure cotton. However, this is incorrect.

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8. The simplest and most effective way to determine if a fabric is pure cotton is to burn a small sample and observe the ash and smell. The softness of the fabric is more related to subsequent processing techniques.

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By understanding these aspects, consumers can make more informed decisions when selecting fabrics for their clothing and home textiles.