Duck is a compact and firm fabric made from cotton. This fabric is one
of the most durable fabrics, which is lighter than canvas and heavier
than sail cloth. It is medium to heavy-weight with a plain weave. The
heavier-weight duck is called 'canvas'. The fabric is tightly woven and
is waterproof. Many of them are even wind and snag resistant.The army duck fabric is more tightly woven than the normal duck to create excellent strength and durability. It is water and mildew treated. It is one of the top quality fabrics used for tents, which is dry finish and water repellent.
The lightweight duck fabric is used as summer wear and blended duck is much favoured for cycling jackets and boating apparel. They are used as unbleached, white, dyed, printed, or in painted form.
Duck fabric originated in the 18th century and was actually made from linen. Then canvas for sails were imported from England. The canvas bore a trademark as 'duck'. Since then, this type of heavyweight fabric is termed as 'duck'.
Characteristics of Duck Fabric
- It is a heavyweight.
- It is strong and durable.
- It has a tight weave.
- It is washable.
- Often, it is waterproof.
- It is resistant to wind and snag.
- The lighter-weight duck fabric is used as utility clothing like
trousers, jackets, aprons, etc. It is also considered for summer
clothing. The heavyweight duck fabric is widely used as awnings,
tents, and sails. The fabric is also used in making hats, men's and
women's slack and children's play-cloths.
- The army duck is used as rugged jackets for hiking and hunting
and work wear. Blended duck is used as fashion rain capes, cycling
jackets and boating apparel.
- Traditionally, the duck fabrics are used as industrial garments.
