Teddy fabric is a soft, fluffy fabric with a warm pile surface that resembles sheepskin or sherpa. The surface is voluminous and textured, giving the fabric a cosy hand feel and a casual look. Teddy fabric is mainly used when warmth, softness and surface texture are important.
Most teddy fabrics are made from polyester or polyester blends. The fabric can vary from light and flexible to thick and bulky, depending on pile height, backing and density.
Teddy fabric is usually knitted or bonded with a raised pile surface. The pile creates volume and traps air, which gives the fabric its warm and insulating feel. Some qualities have a soft teddy surface on one side, while others can be double-faced or combined with a different backing.
The fabric usually has little to moderate stretch, depending on the base construction and whether elastane is included. Because of the pile, teddy fabric can be bulky during cutting and sewing. The surface can flatten under high heat or heavy pressure, so gentle handling is important.
