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 18
th 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.
Uses of Duck Fabric
- 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.
