What is Suede Fabric?
If you're considering purchasing suede fabric, you're probably wondering which kind of animal skin to use. Suede fabric is made of a variety of animal hides, including sheep and pigskin. Older, thicker animals have a rougher appearance, while younger, lighter animals have smoother surfaces. This makes suede fabric an excellent choice for clothing, handbags, and accessories. The main difference between suede and nubuck is the finish of the fabric.
Suede fabric's smooth, silky touch makes it look more luxurious than ordinary fabrics. The fibers in suede are multi-layer and have small reflective points. The soft color and luster are added to the overall look, and its low bending stiffness highlight the luxurious feel of the material. The micro-porous structure of suede fabric makes it better at absorbing oil and water than other fabrics. It is also less likely to absorb heat.
Although Europe is the leading producer of suede, China remains the largest textile market. In addition to its high market share, increasing economies in South America and Southeast Asia will drive demand for suede fabrics. Suede fabrics from these regions are more expensive than those made from other types of leather. While lambskin suede is the most expensive, cowhide and pigskin are both affordable choices. Elk, deerskin, and moosehide are expensive but not compared to lambskin.
As the name suggests, suede fabric originated in France. In fact, the French used the term "gants de suede" to describe any kind of leather with a napped surface. The fabric became popular in the twentieth century and became associated with high-end luxury. Although suede is not the most durable fabric, it is still a popular choice for clothing, shoes, and accessories. There are many ways to use suede, from making a blanket to sewing an accent pillow.
Care for suede fabrics can vary depending on the type of fabric. Suede fabrics can be spot cleaned or dry-cleaned, and professional cleaners use products and facilities specifically designed for suede fabrics. You should also be wary of imitation suede, which is made from synthetic fibers. Faux suede is a synthetic material that looks similar to real suede but is also more resistant to stains and water. And it's easier to maintain compared to suede fabric.
Care for suede fabrics is not as difficult as some people assume. Although suede is a tough fabric, most domestic sewing machines can handle the bulk. To avoid damaging suede fabric, be sure to use a slower sewing speed and a longer stitch length. Suede fabric requires the proper needle, so make sure to use the right one for your project. The needle should match the thickness of the suede, so use a leather needle or jeans needle for real suede.
One of the most common uses for suede is in the fashion industry. Many designers sell clothing made of this material, but it's usually expensive for the average consumer. That's why imitation suede is so popular, as it gives the same look and feel for much less. Faux suede appeals to those consumers who are concerned with animal cruelty. It's widely available in accessories, handbags, and shoes. You can find suede fabric online, so it's time to start shopping!