Plain Fabric

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is plain material?

  Plain material is entirely one colour and has no pattern, design or writing on it. Plain cotton fabric is available in various textures and thickness and is incredibly popular because it is so versatile. It is often used for upholstery, blinds and curtains as it doesn’t date and creates a clean, fresh look. Popular plain fabrics include rich velvets and natural linens, and come in a huge variety of colours to complement any palette. 

  Romo’s Linara fabric is widely regarded as the best-selling plain fabric in the country. It is a cotton linen blend with a brushed finish, and available in over 360 colours.  
   

• What are the four types of cotton?

  There are four types of cotton grown commercially worldwide.

  1. Gossypium hirsutum – this is the most widely planted cotton in the world, making up 90% of the world’s cotton. It’s commonly known as upland cotton. It’s a popular choice when manufacturers are looking for quality and purity in an all-natural fibre. 
  2. Gossypium barbadense – this species of cotton is grown for its extra-long fibers that produce softer and more luxurious textiles. It’s associated with high-quality fabric such as Egyptian cotton. 
  3. Gossypium arboreum – this shrub or tree is native to India and Pakistan and has a wide range of uses from animal food to medicine.  
  4. Gossypium herbaceum – Commonly known as Levant cotton, this cotton plant is native to southern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The cotton fibers produced by the seed pods are used for spinning and can be used to make clothing and textiles.

   

• What is plain weave fabric?

  Plain weave fabric is the most common of the three basic textile weaves. The weave structure is straight interlacing threads going over and under each other at right angles, which makes an extremely strong, sturdy and hard-wearing fabric. Plain weave – also known as tabby weave or basic weave – is popular in upholstery fabrics. It is durable, has a rigid structure, and is easy to sew. There is no ‘wrong’ side of plain weave fabric as both sides are identical. The other types of fabric weaves used are twill weave and satin weave.