What Is Cotton Fabric? How It’s Made, Where It’s Used & How to Buy the Right One

Cotton is one of the most ubiquitous fabrics around. Think about everything made from cotton in your daily life, from t-shirts to summer dresses! But cotton is such a popular fabric for a reason, and how do you know which cotton to pick? In this guide, we will focus on everything you need to know about cotton fabric: how it is made, the different options for cotton, and what to consider when using cotton for the next sewing or fashion project! Whether it's soft cotton for a dress or the perfect cotton fabric for shirts, you'll have all the information you need with this guide.

What Is Cotton Fabric?

Cotton is one of the most popular natural fibers used around the world. Cotton comes from the soft fibers of a cotton plant and is spun into yarn, which is then woven into fabric that is breathable, soft, and durable. Cotton is used for a wide variety of clothing items, including basic t-shirts and jeans, to dresses, blouses, and undergarments.

Types of Cotton Fabric

Cotton fabric comes in many varieties, each with its own texture, weight, and weave. Some of the more common types of cotton fabrics are:

Poplin – a crisp, smooth flat cotton fabric good for shirts 

Jersey – soft and stretchy, good for t-shirts 

Twill – cotton fabric that has a diagonal weave. This durable cotton fabric is often used to make pants. 

Double Gauze – soft, crinkly fabric, often used to make baby clothes or loose tops.

Pointelle – delicate sweater knit fabric with tiny eyelets, often used for layering pieces and kidswear. 

French Terry – smooth on one side and looped on the other, french terry is often preferred for casual clothes (hoodies and other kinds of sweatshirts)

Waffle – designed with a honeycomb type of texture, waffle is used in loungewear and robes.

Canvas – a heavier weight and more durable cotton that is used for jackets, bags and other structured garments.

 Cotton by Staple Length

Cotton is further classified according to fiber length—both softness and durability rely on fiber length. 

• Short Staple Cotton—has the shortest fibers and most economically priced. It may pill over time. It is still used in daily wear. 

• Long Staple Cotton—supplies strong, smooth and durable cotton that feels soft and will not fray.

Premium Cotton Types

• Pima Cotton- a superior quality long-staple cotton that is both soft and durable 

• Supima® Cotton- an even finer version of Pima 🇺🇸 grown in the U.S.A - trademarked for premium use 

• Organic cotton - which has been grown without harmful chemicals and pesticides to support a healthier environment

How Is Cotton Fabric Made?

The first step in cotton production is to harvest the fluffy cotton bolls off of the cotton plant. Cotton fibers are cleaned and separated from the seeds, and then spun into yarn. Depending on the end product, the yarn is woven or knitted into fabric.

Compared to production of synthetic fabrics, production of cotton is relatively natural but still requires water, and there are best farming practices. This has given rise to a desire for organic cotton, given its impact on the earth.

Benefits of Cotton Fabric

• Breathable and Light Weight - Keeps you cool when it is warm outside.

• Soft and Skin-Friendly - A great choice for sensitive skin and everyday comfort.

• Durable - Can take lots of wear and washes.

• Absorbent - Great at absorbing sweat or moisture.

• Versatile - Can be dyed, printed, and styled in many different ways.

• Hypoallergenic - Very rarely will cause irritations or allergies.

What Is Cotton Fabric Used For?

• Tees and tops

• Dresses and skirts

• Shirts and blouses

• Pajamas and innerwear

• Baby clothes

• Lounge and casual sets

• Lightweight kurtis and ethnic wear

 At Geetha Creation we love soft cotton fabric for unstitched dress fabrics as the best option for your style as you can choose personal tailoring, measurement, and own personal look.

Cotton vs. Other Fabrics: A Quick Comparison

How to Care for Cotton Fabric

Wash in cold or warm water (not hot)

Tumble dry low or hang to dry

Iron medium high heat

Pre-wash before sewing (to minimize shrinkage)

Store in cool dry place

Conclusion

Cotton fabric has carved out its own niche as a wardrobe favorite, and for good reason. It is soft, versatile, breathable, and kind to the planet. So, whether you're creating a comfortable kurti, a formal salwar suit, or simply need a fabric that feels good against your skin, cotton is safe and stylish!

Why Geetha Creation Is Your Trusted Choice

At Geetha Creation, it is our belief that fashion shouldn't be uniform; it should be uniquely your own, be comfortable, and be inspired by tradition. Our core and signature line of unstitched dress materials has been curated to offer the wearer quality, which can be appreciated. Whether you're dressing for daily elegance or planning for a special occasion, with Geetha Creation you can be assured that every piece has been chosen with craftsmanship, comfort and cultural significance in mind.