Velvet is a handsome fabric with a soft and luxurious feel. It may be made of silk, rayon, nylon, polyester, acetate, or a combination of these fibers. Weavers make many weights and types of velvet. Some are lightweight and almost transparent, and others are thick and heavy. Lightweight velvet is generally made into clothing when a dressy effect is wanted. Heavier weights are used for upholstery and draperies.
The softness and rich appearance of velvet result from its construction. Two sets of yarns–called the warp–run the length of the fabric, and another set–called the filling–is placed in a crosswise direction. One warp is tightly interlaced with the filling. The other is held more loosely to form a series of closely spaced loops that stand on top of the fabric. These loops are cut open at the top to form the pile, a short, thick, furry surface on the fabric. The pile consists of threads that reflect a good amount of light. The reflection of light from the surface of the pile gives velvet its attractive appearance.
