Fleece

Definition and Overview

Fleece is a general term for textiles made on a knit base with the surface, or both sides, fuzzy to create dense nap. Because it forms a layer of nap that traps air, it is lofty, warm, and relatively lightweight. It is generally made primarily from polyester.

Depending on the length and density of the pile, the knit structure, and whether it is one-sided or two-sided fuzzy, appearance and performance vary from thin microfleece to thick, hairy types.

Features

Its main features are a soft feel against the skin, thermal insulation, and quick drying. Many types also have stretch inherent to the knit fabric, so they are used for garments that require ease of movement. On the other hand, some types are more air-permeable than woven fabrics, and wind resistance varies depending on the density of the textile and whether it has lamination or bonding.

The fuzzy surface may cause fibers to entangle and form pills. In dry environments, static electricity may also build up easily. Depending on the intended use, check whether anti-pilling processing or antistatic processing has been applied.

Main Applications

Taking advantage of its warmth and lightness, it is used for autumn and winter pullovers, jackets, vests, loungewear, pants, and kids' clothing. In sportswear and outdoor wear, it is used as a mid-layer, and thicker types are also used for outerwear.

Outside apparel, it is also used for blankets, hats, neck warmers, and gloves. For applications that come into direct contact with the skin, it is important to check the feel of the nap, shedding behavior, and how seam allowances are finished where they touch the skin.

Selection and Handling Notes

When selecting, check the industry weight, thickness, pile length, nap density, and stretch. Thin, dense types may be chosen for mid-layers, while lofty types may be chosen for outerwear and cold-weather accessories. Do not judge wind resistance, moisture-wicking and quick-drying performance, or stretchability by the name alone; check test values and specifications.

During cutting, aligning the nap direction across all hardware makes differences in how the color appears and the sheen less likely to stand out. During sewing, adjust the needle, thread, and presser foot pressure according to the thickness, and be careful of wavy seams and the nap being caught in the stitching. For washing, follow the care label. To reduce fuzzing and pilling, the common method is to turn the garment inside out, place it in a laundry net, and avoid strong friction.

• Check the nap direction and front/back sides before cutting.
• For easily stretching textiles, consider stabilizing seam allowances and shoulder seams.
• In dark-light color combinations, lint adhesion due to friction may be noticeable.

Differences from Similar Terms

Brushed back often refers to a textile in which only the reverse side of a knit fabric such as sweatshirt fabric is brushed, and its brushing structure and appearance differ from fleece. Back fleece is a knit fabric with loops on the reverse side and is not necessarily brushed.

Pile refers to a structure or textile with looped or cut nap on the surface. Fleece is mainly formed by brushing, and the way its nap is created differs from pile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does fleece have wind resistance?

Ordinary fleece has thermal insulation because air is trapped between the nap, but it may let wind pass through easily. If wind resistance is needed, choose a high-density type or a bonded product with a film laminated on it, and check the product specifications.

How can pilling on fleece be reduced?

Since pilling is easily caused by friction, turn the garment inside out and place it in a laundry net when washing to reduce friction against other clothing. If pills do form, remove them carefully with a garment brush or a pill remover so as not to damage the textile.