Plush

Definition and Overview

Plush is a woven fabric made by cutting the raised pile on the surface to create fuzz. The pile is yarn brought to the surface separately from the ground weave, and by finishing it with relatively long, dense fibers, it creates a smooth, fur-like appearance.

Materials include cotton, wool, silk, rayon, and synthetic fibers, and the feel, sheen, and thickness vary greatly depending on the material, pile length, density, and finishing process. Plush is not a material name; it is mainly a term for the surface structure and appearance.

Features

The direction of the pile changes the reflection of light and the way the color appears, making it prone to a deep sheen and shading. Because its appearance changes depending on the direction you brush the nap, the nap direction of all pieces must be aligned during cutting and sewing.

Because of the pile layer that holds air, it generally feels warm and cushioned. On the other hand, long pile is prone to flattening under friction and pressure, and depending on the wearing or use area, pile collapse, shedding, and uneven fuzz may become noticeable.

• It has a rich nap and a fur-like appearance.
• Sheen and shading change with the direction of the pile.
• It is a fabric that easily gives thickness and warmth.
• It is a fabric where nap irregularities and pressure marks can easily affect the appearance.

Main Applications

It is used for items such as coats, jackets, vests, dresses, and stage costumes that make use of the material's volume and sheen as part of the design. In addition to autumn and winter clothing that takes advantage of its warmth, it is also suitable for stuffed toys, hats, and costumes.

Outside apparel, it is also used for interior and decorative applications such as cushions and sofas. Depending on the application, select it by checking the required performance, such as pile length, ground weave strength, abrasion resistance, and flame resistance.

Selection and Handling Notes

During planning, check the pile length and density, nap direction, thickness, stretch, and the condition of the back side using an actual sample. The longer the pile, the thicker the seam allowance area tends to become, so it is important to consider the sewing specifications, attachment positions for accessories, and the thickness of overlapping areas in advance.

Before cutting, check the grain and nap, and lay out all pieces in the same direction. If the nap faces the opposite direction, it may look like a color difference even when the color is the same. During sewing, keep the pile from being caught in the seam, and confirm seam sinking and feeding stability with a test sew.

The degree of shrinkage, changes in hand, and nap flattening caused by washing and drying varies depending on the fiber type and finish. Follow the care instructions and avoid strong friction, excessive pressure, and high-temperature ironing. If ironing is necessary, check on a sample how to do it without flattening the nap.

Differences from Similar Terms

Pile is a broad term for structures with loops or fuzz on the surface. Plush is often used for fabrics that feature relatively long, dense nap created by cut pile and a fur-like appearance.

Velvet generally has short, dense cut pile and is characterized by an elegant sheen and a smooth surface feel. Corduroy is handled as a velvet-like woven fabric made with cotton. Velour is often made with a knit base, and its structure and stretch may differ from plush.

Frequently Asked Questions