Needle Cord Fabrics (21 Wale) | Corduroy Fabric | Calico Laine (2024)

Crafted entirely from cotton, the needlecord fabric is both incredibly soft and remarkably resilient. Distinguished by its understated, slightly raised stripes, this 21 wale corduroy offers a refined take on traditional pile textures. Boasting a rich variety of hues, this exquisite material is ideal for a wide range of garments, from kids' clothing to home decor to craft projects. Its ease of washing and handling further enhance its versatility, ensuring it remains a go-to choice for the discerning crafter.

© Calico Laine Limited 2nd May 2024

Needle Cord Fabrics (21 Wale) | Corduroy Fabric | Calico Laine (2024)

FAQs

What does wale mean in corduroy? ›

A wale is a column of loops running lengthwise, corresponding to the warp of woven fabric. The lower the number, the thicker the wales' width (e.g., 4-wale is much thicker than 11-wale). Wale count per inch can vary from 1.5 to 21, although the traditional standard is usually between 10 and 12.

What is the finest Wale corduroy? ›

The type of corduroy is based on the number of ridges per inch, so a jumbo cord has less ridges per inch, the finest corduroy is Pin or Needle cord which has over 16 Wales per inch and is the finest corduroy out there. But a standard corduroy has around 11 Wales per inch.

What is the difference between corduroy and needlecord? ›

Corduroy is a strong cotton yarn fabric with pile ribs running its length. It is hard-wearing, washable and comfortable to wear, making it ideal for jackets, trousers and skirts. Needlecord is a lighter weight fabric of the same construction, used for skirts, dresses, shirts and children's clothes.

How to identify corduroy fabric? ›

corduroy, strong durable fabric with a rounded cord, rib, or wale surface formed by cut pile yarn. The back of the goods has a plain or a twill weave. Corduroy is made from any of the major textile fibres and with one warp and two fillings.

What is 21 whale corduroy? ›

Description. Details- This premium 21-wale cotton corduroy is the perfect option for many projects and craft styles. Made with 100% cotton for a high quality and durable finish, this fabric is 60" wide and extremely versatile. Create comfortable garments and stylish home decor with this reliable fabric.

What are the different grades of corduroy? ›

There are different types of corduroys, which are classified by the number of lengthwise pile rows per inch—feathercord has 20-25; pinwale has 16-23; regular wale has 14; wide wale has 6-10; and broad wale has 3-5.

Why is corduroy so expensive? ›

Corduroy is generally more expensive than fabrics made with similar materials due to its relatively complicated production process.

Is corduroy outdated? ›

It may have been around for thousands of years, but it's also been reinvented in several different ways. Just a few hundred years ago, it was seen as a working class fabric because of its hard-wearing qualities. Now, just about anyone can wear corduroy and feel proud about it.

What is the best color for corduroy? ›

Neutral colours always work, but the most fashionable options are definitely those in beige, brown and blue. If you are looking for a less street style kind of look, but at the same time a clean modern outfit choice, go for an unlined corduroy blazer.

What needle is best for corduroy? ›

Stitching Corduroy

To sew on a machine, make sure you use a Heavyweight machine needle, or a Denim machine needle. These needles have a thicker, stronger shaft than normal Universal needles, with a sharp point, making it easier to penetrate thicker fabric or multiple thick layers, without breaking.

What is the best thread for corduroy? ›

Cotton, cotton/polyester, or all polyester threads are good choices. Seams, Seam Finishes, and Hems: Use a standard straight seam, 2.5 length, for construction Seams will require finishing, as corduroy ravels.

Is corduroy warmer than denim? ›

Advantages of Corduroy

The ribbed pattern of corduroy naturally insulates to keep you warmer in the winter and fall compared to jeans. The unique pattern makes your outfit more interesting and fun because it's slightly out of the norm yet stylish.

What is 8 whale corduroy? ›

The 8 wale refers to the number of cords or raised rows of velvet per inch, making this a heavy weight corduroy fabric. As such, it's perfect for garments that need a little extra structure and hold. Pre-wash this fabric before you sew so that it shrinks to fit and doesn't bleed in the wash.

What is the special quality of corduroy? ›

Corduroy fabric is renowned for its ribbed or cord-like texture. This was achieved by weaving or knitting a combination of cotton or a cotton blend. This textile has been a staple for centuries, and it remains a beloved material in fashion today.

Is 14 wale corduroy good? ›

Wale Count & Types of Corduroy

The width of the wales defines the texture of the Corduroy. This is measured by the number of wales per square inch, e.g. 14-Wale. Corduroy with wider wales, such as 1.5, is often used on upholstery or hard wearing trousers, while a wale measurement of 14 will make for a finer garment.

What is the difference between 14 wale and 8 wale? ›

The number of wales within an inch of fabric is considered to be its “wale number” (super logical, right?!). The lower the wale number, the thicker the wales. So an eight-wale corduroy will have a much more prominent texture than an fourteen-wale corduroy.

What is 6 Wale corduroy? ›

Corduroy, 6 wale is a wide cord- 6 wales per inch – great for casual and children's clothing. Durable and warm to wear.

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