| Fabric Name | Fleece |
| Fabric also known as | Polar Fleece, Microfleece, Sherpa Fleece (depending on type) |
| Fabric Composition | Polyester fibers, sometimes blended with other fibers like elastane or cotton |
| Fabric Breathability | Moderate to high |
| Moisture-wicking Abilities | High |
| Heat Retention Abilities | High |
| Stretchability (Give) | Moderate |
| Prone to Pilling/Bubbling | Moderate |
| Country Where Fabric Was First Produced | United States |
| Biggest Exporting/Producing Country Today | China |
| Recommended Washing Temperatures | Cool or warm |
| Commonly Used In | Hoodies, sweatshirts, sweatpants, sportswear, blankets |
What is Fleece Fabric?
Fleece is a synthetic fabric renowned for its warmth and softness, which mimics wool but is made primarily from polyester. It can also include other synthetic fibers to enhance certain properties like elasticity or environmental friendliness. The fabric’s pile surface helps trap heat, making it exceptionally warm, which is why it’s a favored choice in colder climates.
Historical Background and Development
The development of fleece dates back to the 1970s when Malden Mills Industries (now Polartec LLC) wanted to create a wool-like fabric that outperformed the natural material in wet conditions. The result was a lightweight, warm, and water-resistant fabric that rapidly gained popularity in various outdoor and casual wear segments.
Production Process of Fleece Fabric
The production of fleece is an intricate process that transforms synthetic materials into a soft, durable fabric. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how fleece is typically manufactured:
Step 1: Creating the Yarn
Fleece begins with the creation of polyester yarn. Polyester chips are melted and extruded through a spinneret to form long, continuous filaments. These filaments are then cooled and stretched to align the polymer molecules, enhancing the strength and elasticity of the yarn.
Step 2: Knitting
The polyester yarn is knitted into a lightweight fabric using circular knitting machines. This creates a looped structure that is the foundation of fleece’s texture.
Step 3: Brushing
Once knitted, the fabric undergoes a brushing process where multiple fine needles pull out some of the fibers to form a plush, pile surface. This is crucial for developing the fabric’s characteristic softness.
Step 4: Shearing
After brushing, the fleece is sheared to ensure uniform thickness and texture. This step is vital for maintaining consistency in fabric quality across different batches.
Step 5: Dyeing and Finishing
The fleece is then dyed to the desired color. Finishing treatments, such as anti-pilling chemicals, are applied to enhance the fabric’s performance and longevity. These treatments help maintain the appearance of the fleece over time by reducing pilling and increasing stain resistance.
Types of Fleece Fabric
Fleece comes in various types, each with distinct characteristics that make it suitable for different applications. Here’s a closer look at the most common types of fleece used in the apparel industry:
Polar Fleece
Polar fleece is the most widely recognized type of fleece, known for its durability and insulation. It’s thick and warm and comes in varying weights, making it versatile for everything from lightweight linings to heavy winter garments.
Microfleece
Microfleece is thinner and more flexible than polar fleece, making it ideal for layering under other fabrics or for activewear. It offers excellent breathability and moisture-wicking properties, which help keep the skin dry during intense activities.
Sherpa Fleece
Resembling the texture of wool, Sherpa fleece is designed to mimic the look and feel of sheepskin. It’s primarily used for linings in jackets and coats to provide extra warmth and softness.
French Terry Fleece
Known for its looped interior and smooth exterior, French Terry fleece offers a lighter feel, making it perfect for sweatshirts and casual wear. It provides comfort and slight stretch, enhancing mobility.
Slub
This type of fleece is knit from two different sizes of yarn twisted together to give it a textured look.
Anti-Pill Fleece
Anti-pill fleece is a type of fleece fabric that has been treated to resist the formation of tiny balls of fiber, commonly known as “pills.” These pills can appear on fleece fabric after repeated washing or wear, and they can detract from the fabric’s appearance.
Comparison of Fleece Types
| Type | Thickness | Best for | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polar Fleece | Thick | Winter outerwear, blankets | Highly insulating, durable |
| Microfleece | Thin | Layering, activewear | Lightweight, moisture-wicking |
| Sherpa Fleece | Thick | Jacket linings, hats | Wool-like feel, extra warmth |
| French Terry | Moderate | Sweatshirts, loungewear | Comfortable, breathable, slight stretch |
Benefits of Using Fleece Fabric
Fleece fabric offers a myriad of benefits that make it a preferred choice for both apparel manufacturers and consumers. Here are some of the key advantages:
Warmth and Insulation
Fleece provides excellent insulation, trapping heat effectively while being lightweight. This makes it ideal for cold weather apparel and accessories.
Breathability and Moisture-Wicking
Despite its warmth, fleece allows air to circulate and wicks moisture away from the body. This keeps the wearer comfortable during physical activities, preventing overheating and perspiration build-up.
Lightweight and Comfort
One of the most significant benefits of fleece is its lightweight nature, which offers warmth without the bulk. Its soft texture adds to the overall comfort, making it suitable for everyday wear and outdoor activities alike.
Durability and Ease of Maintenance
Fleece is known for its durability and ease of care. It resists wear and tear, maintains its shape after washing, and dries quickly. Additionally, it’s resistant to shrinking and wrinkling, which makes maintenance a breeze.
Common Uses of Fleece Fabric in Apparel
Here’s a breakdown of how fleece is utilized in different categories of apparel:
Hoodies
Fleece is a staple material for jackets and hoodies due to its excellent insulation properties. It provides substantial warmth without adding excessive bulk, making these garments ideal for both mild and cold weather. Fleece jackets and hoodies are popular for outdoor activities, casual wear, and sports.
Sweatshirts
These are often made entirely from fleece for cozy and casual wear. Fleece sweatshirts and pants are favored for their soft texture and warmth, making them essential loungewear and activewear during cooler seasons.
Cardigans
Fleece pullovers and cardigans are versatile layering pieces that offer an easy way to adjust to changing temperatures. They can be worn over lighter tops or under jackets for added warmth.
Pants and Joggers
Fleece pants and joggers offer a comfortable and warm option for various activities, from lounging at home to venturing outdoors. Their softness and heat retention make them ideal for chilly days.
How does fleece fabric cost?
The cost of fleece fabric can vary widely depending on the type, quality, and where it’s purchased. Basic solid fleece fabrics typically range from around $4.99 to $7.99 per yard. More specialized or premium fleece, such as anti-pill or heavyweight fleece, can be a bit more expensive, generally between $5.79 and $8.99 per yard (Joann) (Fabric Direct) (Your Fleece).
Prices can also fluctuate based on the design and any special characteristics of the fleece, such as whether it’s an eco-friendly option or has unique patterns. For bulk purchases, like buying by the bolt, you might find prices as low as $5.79 per yard when bought in larger quantities, such as 20-yard bolts (Fabric Direct).
For a more detailed look into the varieties and costs of fleece, you might want to check out the fleece sections on websites like JOANN (Joann) or Fabric Direct (Fabric Direct). These retailers often provide a wide range of options and sometimes offer discounts or wholesale prices.
Choosing the Right Fleece Fabric for Designer Needs
Selecting the perfect fleece fabric for your design is crucial to achieving the desired look, feel, and performance. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the right choice:
Understanding Fleece Types
- Microfleece: Lightweight, soft, and breathable. Ideal for activewear, liners, and baby clothes.
- Polar Fleece: Thick, warm, and cozy. Perfect for outerwear, blankets, and loungewear.
- Sherpa Fleece: Plush, luxurious, and incredibly soft. Suitable for blankets, jackets, and home decor.
- French Terry: A hybrid of fleece and jersey, offering a smooth exterior and looped interior. Versatile for sportswear, loungewear, and casual wear.
- Cotton Fleece: Natural and absorbent, but less durable than synthetic options. Good for blended fabrics.
Key Factors to Consider
- Weight: Lighter fleece is suitable for warmer climates or activewear, while heavier fleece is ideal for colder conditions.
- Hand Feel: Consider the desired level of softness, thickness, and texture.
- Stretch: Determine if you need a fabric with stretch for added comfort and movement.
- Color and Finish: Select colors and finishes that align with your design aesthetic.
Design Considerations
- Target Audience: Understand the needs and preferences of your customers.
- Garment Style: The intended style will dictate the type of fleece and its weight.
- Performance Requirements: Consider factors like moisture-wicking, breathability, and insulation.
- Aesthetics: The fleece should complement the overall design and branding.
Testing and Prototyping
- Sample Fabrics: Order small samples to assess the fabric’s characteristics firsthand.
- Drape and Texture: Test how the fabric drapes and its texture to ensure it meets expectations.
- Color Matching: Verify color accuracy to avoid discrepancies.
- Prototype Development: Create prototypes to evaluate the fabric’s performance in the garment.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select the perfect fleece fabric to bring your design vision to life.
Would you like to explore specific design ideas or discuss a particular project?
For more insights into fleece fabric and to explore how it can enhance your next apparel project, visit our website at Valtin Apparel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fleece Fabric
What is fleece? Fleece is a synthetic fabric primarily made from polyester. It is designed to mimic the qualities of wool in terms of warmth and softness but is lighter in weight and much more water-resistant. The fabric is created by weaving very fine fibers into a light fabric, which is then brushed to create a thicker, plush texture known as ‘pile.’
Is fleece different from cotton? Fleece is a fabric with a fleece bottom, which can be polyester composition, cotton, or a polyester-cotton blend.
Is fleece fabric good for summer? Fleece fabric is generally not recommended for summer as it is designed to retain warmth and provide insulation. Its thermal properties can make it too warm for hot weather. However, lightweight fleece may be used in cooler summer evenings or in air-conditioned environments where a light layer is necessary.
What temperature is fleece good for? Fleece is ideal for cooler temperatures ranging from 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 15 degrees Celsius). It provides excellent insulation and can be layered under jackets or coats for additional warmth in colder conditions.
Should a fleece be tight or loose? A fleece should generally be loose enough to allow for layering underneath but not so loose that it fails to trap body heat effectively. The fit should enable a full range of motion without restricting movement, making a slightly relaxed fit preferable.
What season is fleece good for? Fleece is most suitable for fall and winter when temperatures drop and additional insulation is needed. It can also be useful in spring during cooler days or nights. Fleece is versatile enough to be worn for outdoor activities like hiking or camping during these seasons.
What is the warmest fleece fabric? The warmest fleece fabric is typically considered to be heavy-weight or expedition-weight fleece. These materials are denser and thicker, providing maximum insulation for cold weather conditions.
What is the difference between Sherpa and fleece? Sherpa and fleece are both types of polyester fabric, but they differ in texture and appearance. Sherpa is designed to resemble sheepskin, with one side that features a bumpy, wool-like texture and another that is smooth. It is often used for linings due to its softness and warmth. Regular fleece has a uniform, plush texture on both sides and is used for a wider range of garments.
Is fleece 100% cotton? It depends on the fabric. Fleece is primarily made from polyester, which is a synthetic material. While there are cotton-blend fleeces where cotton is mixed with synthetic fibers, traditional fleece is predominantly polyester.
Is fleece itchy? Fleece is generally not itchy. It is designed to be soft and comfortable against the skin. Unlike wool, fleece does not contain lanolin, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. However, individuals with very sensitive skin might occasionally find certain types of synthetic fleece less comfortable, and you can choose 100% cotton fleece fabric.
