Fleece
Fleece is a fabric, mainly made of polyester, that is brushed on the surface of knit fabric and similar materials to create fine pile, giving it lightness and warmth.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
Fleece is a general term for textiles made on a knit base with the surface, or both sides, brushed to create a dense nap. Because it forms a layer of trapped air in the nap, it is bulky, warm, and relatively lightweight. It is generally made primarily from polyester.
Depending on the pile length and density, knit structure, and whether it is one-sided or double-sided brushed, its appearance and performance vary widely, from thin microfleece to thick types with longer pile.
Features
Its main features are a soft hand, warmth, and quick drying. Many types also have stretch derived from the knit structure, so they are used in clothing that requires ease of movement. On the other hand, some types are more breathable than woven fabrics, and wind resistance varies depending on fabric density and whether it is laminated or bonded.
The brushed surface can sometimes cause fibers to tangle and form pills (pilling). Also, in dry environments, static electricity may build up easily. Depending on the intended use, check whether anti-pilling or antistatic finishing has been applied.
Main Applications
Taking advantage of its warmth and lightness, it is used for fall and winter pullovers, jackets, vests, loungewear, pants, and children's clothing. In sportswear and outdoor wear, it is used as a midlayer, and thicker types are also used for outerwear.
Beyond apparel, it is also used for blankets, hats, neck warmers, gloves, and more. For uses that come into direct contact with the skin, it is important to check the feel of the nap, the degree of shedding, and the finishing of areas where seam allowances may touch the skin.
Selection and Care Notes
When selecting fleece, check the fabric weight, thickness, pile length, brushing density, and stretch. Thin, dense types may be chosen for midlayers, while bulky types may be chosen for outerwear and cold-weather accessories. Do not judge wind resistance, quick-drying properties, or stretch only from the name; check test values and specifications.
When cutting, aligning the nap direction for all pieces helps prevent differences in color appearance and sheen. During sewing, adjust the needle, thread, and presser foot pressure according to thickness, and watch for seam waviness and the nap being caught in the stitches. For washing, follow the care label; to reduce fuzzing and pilling, it is common to turn the garment inside out, place it in a laundry net, and avoid strong friction.
- Check the nap direction and right side before cutting.
- For fabrics that stretch easily, consider stabilizing seam allowances and shoulder seams.
- In dark-and-light color combinations, fiber transfer caused by friction may be noticeable.
Differences from Similar Terms
Brushed reverse side usually refers to fabric made by brushing only the reverse side of a knit such as sweatshirt fleece, and its brushing structure and appearance differ from fleece. French terry is a knit with loops on the reverse side and is not necessarily brushed.
Pile refers to a structure or fabric with looped or cut nap on the surface. Fleece mainly forms nap by brushing, and the way the nap is created differs from pile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does fleece have wind resistance?
General fleece has warmth because the nap traps air, but it may still let wind through. If wind resistance is needed, choose a high-density type or a bonded product with a film laminated to it, and check the product specifications.
How can fleece pilling be reduced?
Since pills are easily caused by friction, wash the garment inside out in a laundry net to reduce friction with other clothes. If pills appear, carefully remove them with a clothing brush or pill remover so as not to damage the fabric.
