What is Jacquard?

Jacquard is a general name for fabrics with woven or knitted patterns. In woven jacquard, individual warp yarns can be controlled separately, which makes complex and detailed designs possible. This technique is named after Joseph-Marie Jacquard, who developed a system for controlling the weaving process.

The pattern is part of the fabric construction, so it has a different character than a print. Jacquard can be made from many fibres, including cotton, polyester, viscose, wool, silk or blends. Depending on the design, both sides of the fabric may look different, and one side is usually chosen as the face side.

Specifications

Construction Woven or knitted fabric with an integrated pattern
Composition Can be made from cotton, polyester, viscose, wool, silk or blends
Fabric weight Usually medium to heavy, commonly around 150 to 400 g/m², depending on yarn type, pattern density, weave and finish
Stretch Little to no stretch in woven jacquard; more stretch possible in knitted jacquard or when elastane is added
Abbreviations CO = cotton, PES = polyester, CV or VI = viscose, WO = wool, SE = silk, EL = elastane
Appearance Integrated pattern, textured surface, decorative look, often with different face and reverse sides

Jacquard

Jacquard is a fabric type with a pattern that is woven or knitted directly into the fabric structure. The pattern is not printed on the surface, but created by the way the yarns are lifted, lowered or knitted during production. This gives jacquard more depth, texture and structure than a flat printed fabric.

Jacquard can range from subtle tone-on-tone designs to large, detailed patterns. The fabric may be light and decorative, firm and structured or heavy and upholstery-like, depending on the yarns, construction and composition. It is used for fashion garments, interior textiles, accessories and decorative applications.

Applications

Dresses and skirts
Jackets and blazers
Waistcoats and structured garments
Trousers with a firm silhouette
Cushions and decorative interior items
Curtains and soft furnishing
Bags and accessories
Costume and occasionwear

Care Instructions

Jacquard should usually be washed at 30°C or 40°C, depending on the fibre composition, pattern structure and finish. Wash delicate or raised jacquards inside out to help protect the surface. Do not bleach. Avoid high-temperature tumble drying, as this can affect the structure, dimensions or texture of the fabric. Iron on the reverse side at low to medium temperature, preferably with a pressing cloth for textured or lustrous surfaces.

Certifications

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 may be available depending on the specific article. For children’s clothing, skin-contact garments or interior applications, always check the certification and class per fabric.

Practical Tip

Check the pattern repeat before cutting jacquard. Match visible motifs at seams where needed, and decide clearly which side will be used as the face side before production starts.

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posted on
05/06/2026