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French Terry

What is French terry fabric?

French terry is a knitted fabric with a smooth front and a looped back. The loops on the inside give the fabric volume, softness and a comfortable feel without making it as warm or bulky as brushed sweat fabric. Because it is knitted, French terry usually has natural flexibility and moves well with the body.

French terry is often used for relaxed garments that need comfort, structure and moderate warmth. It works well for sweaters, hoodies, jogging trousers, dresses and children’s clothing.

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Specifications

  • Construction Knit fabric, loops on the inside and smooth on the outside
  • Composition 80–100% cotton, often blended with 20% polyester or 5% elastane
  • Fabric weight Medium: 220–280 g/m²
  • Stretch Moderate widthwise stretch, 20–40%; more with elastane
  • Abbreviations CO = cotton, PES = polyester, EL = elastane
  • Appearance Casual, soft hand feel, slightly draped fall

Properties of the fabric

French terry is made with a knitted structure that creates a smooth face side and small loops on the reverse side. These loops can absorb some moisture and add light insulation, while still allowing more air circulation than brushed sweatshirt fabric. The fabric is usually more stable than single jersey, but softer and more flexible than many woven fabrics.

French terry can be made from cotton, polyester, recycled cotton, recycled polyester, elastane or blends. Cotton-rich qualities feel natural and soft, while polyester blends can improve shape retention and drying time. Elastane can add extra stretch and recovery, which is useful for fitted or movement-friendly garments.

Applications

  • Hoodies and sweaters
  • Jogging bottoms and tracksuits
  • Children’s sweaters and rompers
  • Casual dresses and skirts
  • Sportswear, if it contains elastane

Wash instructions

Washable at 40°C. Wash inside out to reduce pilling. Can be tumble dried at low temperature. Ironing is not necessary.

Certifications

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 available. GOTS variants available with organic cotton.

Practical Tip

Use French Terry with elastane, such as 95% CO / 5% EL, for sporty, well-fitting garments. Pure cotton French Terry is ideal for loose-fitting, comfortable hoodies.

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Written by

Dave Van der Steen Nooteboom Textiles

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