Fabric Construction Terms

Straight fabric When the crosswise and lengthwise

threads run at a right angle to each other.

This helps the

clothing or item

made from the

fabric hang

correctly

warp These are the threads that run crosswise of

the fabric.

These are the threads that are attached

to the loom

Weft These are the threads that run lengthwise

of the fabric.

This thread is carried by the shuttle as the

fabric is being woven.

Terms to know Grain - the direction of threads in a

woven fabric in relation to the selvage.

Lengthwise – parallel to the selvedge of

the fabric.

Crosswise – these threads run

perpendicular to the selvedge of the

fabric.

Selvage – the factory

finished edge of the fabric

Bias – runs at a 45 degree

angle to the selvage of the

fabric. Has the most stretch.

Parallel - extending in the same

direction, equidistant at all

points, and never converging

or diverging

Perpendicular - vertical; straight up and

down; upright.

Torn edge – that edge that is torn or

cut when the fabric is measured.