Rib Weave

Rib Weave Manufacture

Rib weave is a variation of Plain weave and is created very similarly to a plain weave piece of fabric. The basic construction follows the same pattern of the weft yarns going under and over the warp yarns in the pattern of one under, one over and so on.

The difference between plain weave and Rib weave is that Rib weave uses one heavyweight yarn. This is used for either the warp of weft yarns and the end result is a fabric that has raised ribs either horizontally or vertically down the fabric, depending on whether the heavier, thicker yarn is used for the warp or the weft.

Rib weave fabrics can be colour woven to create striped or plaid fabrics. This is done by using different yarns of different colours. Finishes can also be applied to Rib weave fabrics. These include water resistance and a fire retardant coating.

Types of rib weave fabric include Grosgrain and Poplin. Poplin was traditionally made using a silk warp and a wool or worsted weft. Nowadays however it is made using Silk, cotton, viscose and wool. Cotton poplin is made entirely from Cotton and is used in many uses.

Properties of Rib Weave Fabric

• Characterised by raised lines either horizontally and vertically
• Frays easily
• Soft
• Comfortable to wear
• Versatile
• Flexible
• Only stretches on the bias
• Can either have warp ribs or weft ribs
• Thin
• Smooth
• Lustrous
• Crease resistant
• Heavyweight
• Highly Durable
• Can be made water resistant

End Uses of Rib Weave Fabric

• Was used during the 20^th Century to make heavyweight dresses for winter wear
• Garments
• Ribbons
• Shirting
• Sportswear
• Boys suits
• Uniforms
• Dresses