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Panama

What is panama fabric?

Panama fabric is a woven fabric made in a panama weave, also known as basket weave. In this construction, groups of warp and weft yarns cross each other, creating a slightly open, textured and often breathable surface. The fabric can look natural and casual, but still has more structure than many lightweight plain weaves.

Panama is used for garments and interior items that need texture, body and a clean woven appearance. Depending on the composition and weight, it can feel crisp, firm, dry or slightly softer.

Go to the Panama collection

Specifications

  • Construction Woven fabric in panama weave or basket weave
  • Composition Can be cotton, linen, polyester, viscose or blends
  • Fabric weight Commonly around 105 to 270 g/m², depending on yarn thickness, weave density and intended use
  • Stretchability Usually little to no stretch, unless elastane is added
  • Abbreviations CO = cotton, LI = linen, PES = polyester, CV or VI = viscose, EL = elastane

Properties of the fabric

Panama fabric is defined by its weave construction rather than one specific fibre. The panama weave creates a visible grid-like texture and a more open structure than a standard plain weave. This can give the fabric a breathable feel and a slightly more rustic appearance.

Panama can be made from cotton, linen, polyester, viscose or blends. Cotton and linen-rich qualities often feel natural and dry, while polyester blends can improve crease recovery and ease of care. The fabric usually has little to no stretch unless elastane is added.

Applications

  • Summer jackets.
  • Lightweight trousers.
  • Overshirts.
  • Structured skirts.
  • Cushion covers and curtains.

Care instructions

  • Wash panama fabric usually at 30 to 40°C, depending on composition and finish.
  • Wash darker colours inside out and with similar colours.
  • Air drying is preferred to help reduce shrinkage and creasing.
  • Iron at low to medium temperature, depending on the fibre content.
  • Pre-washing is recommended when shrinkage could affect the final size.

Certificates

  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 may be available depending on the specific article.
  • GOTS may be possible for qualities made from certified organic cotton or organic linen.

Practical tip

Check the openness of the weave before choosing panama for garments. A more open panama fabric may need lining or a looser garment construction, while denser qualities work better for trousers, jackets and structured skirts.

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Written by

Dave Van der Steen Nooteboom Textiles

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