What is Velvet?

• Velvet is a sleek and soft fabric that is mostly used to make clothing, upholstery, and other such accessories. 
• In the past, the fabric was related to the aristocracy as it was a costly procedure to manufacture velvet. 
• Even though several modern velvets are polluted with cheap material, it still remains unique with their softness. 

History

• Initially, velvet was made from silk and was expensive to be purchased by normal people, because of this it became a symbol of royalty. 
• Velvet originated in Baghdad in 750 AD, however, slowly the production of fabric spread to the Mediterranean towards Europe. 
• Throughout the Renaissance, the cost of manufacturing got lowered due to new loom technology.
• Eventually, Florence (Italy) became the dominant producer of velvet. 

Types of Velvet Fabric

Crushed Velvet	Similar to the name, the texture of the fabric is also crushed, this is obtained by twisting the fabric while it is wet.
Panne Velvet	It is just like crushed velvet because it also requires heavy pressure on the material in order to push the pile in one direction.
Embossed Velvet	Embossed velvet is created by heat stamp. It is famous for making upholstery and home decor products.
Cisele Velvet	This type of velvet is designed by cutting looped threads and letting others uncut.
Plain Velvet	It is usually heavy with a little bit of stretch and does not have luster.
Stretch Velvet	Stretch Velvet comprises spandex within the weave that makes the fabric more flexible.

What Makes it Stand Out

Soft	Velvet fabric is soft, comfortable to wear, and has a delicate texture.
Absorbing	It is a good absorbent and can absorb 3 times more moisture than cotton.
Anti-allergic	Velvet fabric does not cause any reaction or irritation to the skin.

Application & Usage 

Clothing	Blouses, skirts, suits, etc.
Accessories	Handbags, Jootis, Mojris, etc.
Home-furnishing	Blanket, curtains, etc

New Age Innovations

• After the invention of the machine looms the production of velvet became less. 
• The development of fabrics that give silk-like properties has brought wonders in the manufacturing of velvet.
• While presently velvet is not as same as it was earlier, it is still considered a prized material for blankets, suits, and other such products. 

How to Check the Authenticity of Velvet? 

• Check for the density of the fabric, the thickness of the yarn as well as the fiber content. 
• By bending a piece of fabric diagonally, you can check if the fabric is tightly woven or not, if yes then it is pure velvet. 

Care Instructions 

• If the velvet is made from silk or cotton then prefer to dry clean it. 
• In case the velvet fabric is made from easy-care synthetic fiber then you can either machine wash or hand wash the fabric. 
• Do not directly iron the fabric, first turn it inside out. 

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