Nonwoven Fabric

Definition and Overview

Nonwoven fabric is a material made by integrating a web of fibers arranged in a fixed direction or laid in a random pattern using thermal bonding, resin adhesion, needle punching, or similar methods. The basic difference is that it does not have woven warp and weft yarns or knitted loops.

Raw materials include polyester, nylon, polypropylene, rayon, and natural fibers. Even within nonwoven fabric, thickness, strength, appearance, and performance vary greatly depending on the raw material, fiber thickness, production method, industry weight, and surface finish.

Texture and Function

Lightweight nonwoven fabric can have a paper-like lightness and firmness, while heavier types have a bulky, felt-like texture. Because strength can differ by direction depending on the fiber arrangement and bonding method, it is important to check the cutting direction and the force applied during use.

Breathability, filtration, heat retention, cushioning, water absorption, and water repellency are designed through the material, structure, and processing. On the other hand, some types are not prone to fraying but present issues such as tearing, fuzzing caused by friction, and deformation from heat.

Main Applications

In apparel, it is used for interlining, nonwoven interlining, shoulder pads, and other auxiliary materials, as well as quilt batting, filter materials, core materials, cushioning materials, and disposable-use supplies. When used as the outer fabric, it is used for garments, bags, and similar items that make use of its lightness, unique firmness, matte appearance, and industrial texture.

For heat retention and quilt batting applications, it is often used in fall and winter products, but lightweight types with breathability are also used in spring and summer products and hygiene-related applications. When selecting it for clothing, first determine whether it will be used for the outer fabric, lining, or interlining, and organize the required texture and durability.

• Reinforcement materials such as fusible interlining and nonwoven interlining
• Quilt batting, insulating materials, cushioning materials
• Core materials and interior materials for bags and small accessories
• Filter materials and materials for hygiene and disposable use

Selection and Handling Notes

When selecting it, check the raw material, production method, industry weight, thickness, hardness, tensile strength, tear resistance, breathability, and whether bonding or lamination is present. For fusible interlining applications, also confirm compatibility with the outer fabric, bonding conditions, texture after bonding, and peeling or shrinkage after washing through advance testing.

The degree of shrinkage, distortion, fuzzing, and changes in the adhesive or thermal bonding sections due to washing varies by type. Always follow the product specifications for water washing, dry cleaning, and iron temperature. Before mass production, it is safer to perform a washing test with it layered together with the outer fabric.

In sewing, some materials show visible needle holes, some are prone to tearing from the needle holes, and some stretch easily during feeding. Design so that excessive force does not concentrate near the seam, and adjust the needle size, thread, stitch length, and presser pressure through test sewing.

Differences from Similar Terms

Felt is sometimes treated as a type of nonwoven fabric made by entangling fibers into a sheet, but in general it often refers to a thick, fuzzy material with a compressed, distinctive texture. Nonwoven fabric is a broader material classification that can include felt.

Fusible interlining and nonwoven interlining are product categories that use nonwoven fabric as reinforcement for clothing. Not all nonwoven fabric is interlining. Also, woven fabrics such as plain weave and knits such as jersey are made by arranging yarns in an orderly structure, while nonwoven fabric is made by directly bonding fibers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does nonwoven fabric shrink when washed?

The degree of shrinkage and distortion depends on the fiber type, bonding method, heat treatment, and surface finish. Some shrink with water washing, and some change in hardness or dimensions with heat, so washing tests should be performed not only on the material alone but also in combination with the outer fabric, and the appropriate care label should be set.

Can nonwoven fabric be sewn with a household sewing machine?

Some types can be sewn, but thin types tend to retain needle holes, and hard or tear-prone types may tear from the seam. Test the needle size, thread, and stitch length on offcuts, and use a pressing cloth or reinforcement tape as needed.