The word "soft" in textiles is not a single specific fabric but a whole family of materials sharing one common feature — softness to touch. In bridal sewing, soft is used as a draping base for dresses; in interiors, as a versatile fabric for curtains, bedspreads, upholstery.
What soft fabric is technically
Soft is a polyester fabric with special weaving and additional chemical treatment that makes it gentle, smooth and drapy. Has a silky texture, doesn't crease, doesn't release dye, washes well. Suits both bridal dresses and interior textiles.
Production: polyester fibres are spun into very fine yarns, woven with twill or sateen weave, then treated with special softeners. The result is a material visually similar to crepe de chine or silk, but cheaper to produce and easier to care for.
4 types of soft fabric
1. Classic soft (smooth)
The most common type. Smooth matte surface, soft drape. Suits everyday and bridal dresses, curtains, bedspreads. Density 80-180 g/m².
2. Velour soft (Soft Velour)
With short pile — resembles velvet or velour but much lighter. Warm texture, perfect for winter bridal capes and interior bedspreads.
3. Printed soft (Soft Print)
Classic soft with printed pattern — flowers, ornaments, abstracts. Often used for curtains, bedding, kids' clothing.
4. Plush soft (Soft Plush)
The softest variant — with long pile, similar to plush. Not for bridal sewing, but ideal for interior cushions, kids' toys, throws.
Soft fabric properties
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Composition | 95-100% polyester, sometimes +5% elastane |
| Density | 80-220 g/m² (depends on type) |
| Width | 150-280 cm |
| Drape | Excellent, gentle, no creases |
| Shrinkage | Minimal, up to 2% |
| Wrinkling | Low |
| Care | Wash 30-40 °C, iron on low |
| Price | Low to medium |
Soft in wedding dresses: where it's used
- Mermaid skirt — soft drape on the figure
- A-line — airy lower part of the dress
- Capes and boleros — especially velour soft
- Lining — universal base for lace and chiffon
- Train — dramatic train with optimal price/quality balance
Master tip: soft is ideal for first attempts and the budget segment. Looks expensive, behaves well, sews easily. For premium dresses go for silk or crepe de chine.
Soft in interiors
In interior design, soft has become a universal fabric: curtains with beautiful drape, bedspreads with soft texture, decorative cushions, upholstery. Choose 180-220 g/m² for furniture and 100-140 g/m² for curtains.
Looking for quality soft wholesale?
Inter Tex catalog — soft in various colours, densities, widths. Wholesale from 20 m, EU shipping.
How to sew with soft: 5 tips
- Cut following the grain direction — soft "breathes" one way.
- Use fine needles 70-80 for machine sewing.
- Use polyester threads in matching colour.
- Stitch zigzag on edges — soft can fray.
- Iron from the wrong side on low temperature.
Common mistake: ironing soft on high temperature. Polyester melts above 150 °C. Always set the iron to "synthetic".
Care for soft items
Care rules: machine wash 30-40 °C, delicate cycle, no high-spin. Dry on hangers. Iron from the wrong side on low or through gauze. No bleach — it discolours polyester.
