Chiffon Fabric

Chiffon is an elegant and sheer fabric made of silk, rayon, cotton, or synthetics. The fabric is very fine, thin hand and lightweight. It is soft and supple, which gives a beautiful drape. It wears very well but is difficult to handle when sewing. It has slightly bumpy look and is best suited to shirring, draping, gathering and tucking.

Chiffon is a plain weave fabric. It is made of loose and tightly twisted yarns. The yarns are either in the filling or the warp or both. It has crepe like texture because the threads are first twisted and then woven. It has very slight rough feel but is softer and thinner than Georgette. Polyester chiffon is very strong and dries quickly.

The word 'Chiffon' has been derived from a French word 'Chiffe', which mean 'rag'.

Characteristics of Chiffon Fabric

• It is soft and supple.
• It is elegant and sheer fabric.
• It is very fine, thin and transparent.
• It is lightweight.
• It wears very well.
• It drapes well.
• It does not show pinholes.
• It is difficult to cut and sew.
• It has crepe-like texture.

Uses of Chiffon Fabric

Chiffon is best used for special occasion dresses, nightgowns, linings, and under linings. It is also used as eveningwear, blouses and scarves. Often chiffon is used in a colored layer over a heavier fabric, background for embroidery, applique or beading.