Typewriter Cloth
Typewriter cloth is a woven fabric characterized by a paper-like crispness and a smooth, dry hand, made by plain-weaving fine threads at high density.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
Typewriter cloth generally refers to a plain weave fabric made by weaving fine threads at a high density in both the warp and weft. It is named for its paper-like, crisp texture, reminiscent of the paper used when striking a typewriter key. Many are made mainly from cotton, but blended and union fabrics also exist.
“Typewriter” is not the name of a standard that strictly defines the material, thread count, or density. Even with the same name, thickness, stiffness, and sheen vary depending on the raw materials, picks, number of yarns, and finishing process.
Features
Because it is woven at a high density, the surface is relatively smooth with a tight weave, and it has moderate firmness and resilience. Even in lightweight to medium-light fabrics, it holds its shape well and gives a clean, sharp impression when sewn.
When cotton is the main material, it tends to have absorbency and a dry, smooth hand that does not cling to the skin. On the other hand, it generally has no stretch, and depending on the density and finish, wrinkles may stand out easily. In light colors, sheerness should also be checked.
Main Applications
It is used for items such as shirts, blouses, dresses, and skirts where the firmness is used to create a neat silhouette. It may also be used for light outerwear, coats, pants, and outer fabrics for bags rather than linings.
Products with a relatively airy hand are suitable for spring and summer clothing, but depending on the choice of thickness, raw materials, and processing, they can also be used for year-round planning. Gathers and tucks tend to hold their shape well, while designs that emphasize soft drape may call for another textile.
Selection and Care Notes
When selecting, check not only the material blend ratio but also the industry weight, thickness, density, sheerness, and hand after washing using the actual material. Even within typewriter cloth, soft-finished products feel gentler when worn, while products given firmness through resin finishing and similar treatments are suitable for more structured expression. Depending on the application, also test compatibility with interfacing.
Typewriter cloth containing cotton may shrink, wrinkle, or change hand through washing or pre-washing. Confirm the shrinkage rate before mass production, and if necessary perform preshrinking or hot-water treatment. Because needle holes may be noticeable due to the high density, choose a finer needle and sewing thread suitable for the textile, and also check for seam puckering.
- Before cutting, check the grainline and differences in shrinkage within the roll.
- For light colors and lightweight fabrics, check sheerness and consider lining or construction details.
- Washing conditions vary depending on the blend ratio and finishing, so follow the care label.
Differences from Similar Terms
Broadcloth and poplin are also handled as plain weave shirting fabrics, but typewriter cloth is often used to describe a fabric characterized by a drier, paper-like firmness created by weaving fine threads at high density. However, usage of the names varies by maker and through distribution.
Weather cloth has properties similar to typewriter cloth as a high-density fabric, but it may be used as a fabric name with windproof or weather-resistant qualities in mind. Do not judge the actual distinction by name alone; check the weave, blend ratio, density, finishing, and performance specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is typewriter cloth suitable for summer?
Lightweight typewriter cloth made mainly from cotton is often used for spring and summer clothing, making use of its smooth touch and moderate firmness. However, because it is high-density, breathability depends on the weave and finishing. Check whether it is suitable for the intended application, including thickness, color, and ease allowance.
Are typewriter cloth and broadcloth the same?
Both are sometimes handled as plain weave shirting fabrics, but they are not synonymous. Typewriter cloth is a term that focuses on its high density and paper-like firmness. Broadcloth often refers to a relatively smooth plain weave made with fine threads, and it is necessary to compare actual specifications and hand.
Does typewriter cloth shrink in home washing?
Products containing cotton may shrink, wrinkle, or change surface texture through home washing. The degree of shrinkage varies depending on the blend ratio, dyeing and finishing, and washing conditions. Before product development, conduct washing tests and consider pre-washing before cutting, as well as pattern design that accounts for shrinkage.
