Understanding fibers is the first step to mastering textiles. This Fiber Dictionary is your quick reference when learning the various materials that shape fashion. I also made sure to include some pictures to help you remember them!
So, whether you’re a fashion student, a freelance fashion designer, or an in-house designer eager to understand the basics, this guide is your ticket to all the must-know fibers used in textiles.
I also have a Fabric Dictionary, where you’ll learn the commonly used textiles in fashion, and a garment fit and cut dictionary for more info on specific silhouettes and design details.
Fibers Beginning with A
Abaca: Natural fiber from a species of the banana plant, known for its strength and durability. Often used for rope, bags, and coarse textiles.
Acetate: A synthetic fiber with a silk-like appearance, known for its luxurious feel and draping qualities.
Acrylic: A synthetic fiber that is lightweight, soft, and retains its shape well. It is often used as a substitute for wool.
Alpaca: Natural fiber derived from alpaca animals, known for its warmth, softness, and hypoallergenic properties.
Angora: Natural fiber from Angora rabbits, known for its softness and silky texture.
Fibers Beginning with B
Bamboo: Natural fiber made from the pulp of bamboo plants, valued for its eco-friendly and antibacterial properties.
Banana Fiber: Natural fiber extracted from banana plants’ stems, valued for its eco-friendliness and durability. Used in textiles and crafts.
Fibers Beginning with C
Carbon Fiber: A strong, lightweight synthetic fiber known for its high tensile strength. Widely used in advanced composites for aerospace and sports equipment.
Cashmere: Fine, soft, and luxurious natural fiber sourced from cashmere goats, renowned for its warmth and softness.
Coir: Natural fiber derived from coconut husks, known for its durability and water-resistant properties. Used in doormats, brushes, and geotextiles.
Cotton: Soft, breathable, and absorbent natural fiber derived from cotton plants. It is one of the most widely used fibers in the textile industry.
Fibers Beginning with F
Fiberfill: Synthetic filling material, often made from polyester, used in quilts, pillows, and padded clothing for insulation and softness.
Flax: Natural fiber from the flax plant, commonly known as linen. Known to be strong, durable, and absorbent.
Fur: Animal pelts used for their soft, insulating properties. Used in luxury fashion items like coats, hats, and accessories.
Fibers Beginning with H
Hemp: Natural fiber from the hemp plant, known for its strength, durability, and sustainability. Used in textiles, paper, and eco-friendly products.
Fibers Beginning with J
Jute: Natural fiber commonly used for making burlap and other coarse fabrics. It is derived from the jute plant’s stem.
Fibers Beginning with K
Kapok: Natural fiber from the kapok tree’s seed pods, known for its buoyancy and softness. Historically used in life jackets and pillows.
Fibers Beginning with L
Lotus Fiber: Natural fiber obtained from lotus plant stems, prized for its softness and lightness. Traditionally used in Asia for clothing and textiles.
Lurex: Metallic yarn or fiber often blended with other fabrics to add sparkle and shimmer to garments and accessories.
Fibers Beginning with M
Merino: Soft, fine wool obtained from Merino sheep. Known for its exceptional warmth and softness, used in high-quality woolen garments.
Milk Fiber: A protein-based fiber made from casein, a milk protein. Known for its smooth texture and moisture-wicking properties.
Modal: Semi-synthetic fiber made from beech tree pulp. Soft, smooth, and breathable, commonly used in underwear, pajamas, and casual wear.
Mohair: Natural fiber from Angora goats, characterized by its silky texture and sheen. It is often used in luxury fabrics.
Mulberry Silk: High-quality silk produced by silkworms fed exclusively on mulberry leaves. Known for its smooth texture and luxurious sheen, used in premium silk garments.
Fibers Beginning with N
Nylon: Synthetic fiber valued for its strength, elasticity, and abrasion resistance. It is commonly used in activewear and hosiery.
Fibers Beginning with P
Pima Cotton: High-quality, long-staple cotton known for its softness and durability. Commonly used in luxury T-shirts, sheets, and other fine textiles.
Piña: Natural fiber from pineapple leaves, used primarily in traditional Philippine textiles like the piña cloth.
Polyester: Synthetic fiber known for its durability, wrinkle resistance, and color retention. It is versatile and used in a wide range of fabrics.
Fibers Beginning with R
Ramie: Natural fiber from the Chinese nettle plant, similar to linen but even stronger. It is resistant to mold and mildew.
Rayon: Semi-synthetic fiber made from cellulose, offering a silky texture and excellent drape. It is often used as a versatile substitute for silk.
Fibers Beginning with S
Silk: Luxurious and smooth natural fiber produced by silkworms, known for its sheen, softness, and temperature-regulating properties.
Soy Silk: Natural fiber made from soybeans, recognized for its softness and moisture-wicking properties.
Spandex (Lycra/Elastane): Synthetic fiber with exceptional elasticity, commonly used in stretch fabrics for activewear and form-fitting garments.
Suede: Soft, velvety leather with a napped surface. Often used in jackets, shoes, and accessories for a luxurious appearance.
Fibers Beginning with T
Tencel (Lyocell): Eco-friendly fiber made from wood pulp, known for its softness, breathability, and environmentally friendly production process.
Fibers Beginning with V
Vinyl: Synthetic material made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Waterproof and versatile, used in raincoats, boots, and accessories.
Viscose: Semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp, offering a soft and smooth feel. It is often used in linings and summer clothing due to its breathability.
Fibers Beginning with W
Wool: Natural fiber from sheep, known for its warmth, insulation, and moisture-wicking properties.
That’s the complete Fiber Dictionary (with photos) for fashion design!
More Resources & Dictionaries
Check out my guide on the Fabric Burn Test, where you’ll learn how to identify your fabrics through a quick experiment. For more industry terms, check out my Fabric Dictionary, where you’ll learn the commonly used textiles in fashion.
I also have a Garment Construction Dictionary and Garment Fit and Cut Dictionary for more terms on specific silhouettes and construction details.
Bookmark this fiber dictionary so you can easily remember various fibers!
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