Sherpa fabric : Properties, Pricing & Sustainability (2023)

Have you ever heard of Sherpa fabric? This is a type of synthetic material commonly made using polyester fibers. It is named after the Sherpa people of Nepal, who are renowned for wearing woolen clothing made from the sheep and llamas that live with them in the mountains of Tibet. Sherpa fabric is known for its softness and warmth, making it an ideal choice for outerwear and footwear such as boots.

Sherpa fabric is often blended with acrylic or cotton and made from polyester. It is known for its soft texture, quick drying, breathability, and ability to provide warmth and comfort. The fabric is also absorbent, making it a popular choice for clothing items. Sherpa fabric is commonly used in jackets, insulation, boots, upholstery, cushions, and other things that require warmth and comfort. To maintain the fabric’s texture and quality, it is advisable to wash it in cold water and avoid ironing it.

Additionally, the material is breathable, allowing air circulation in and out, which prevents sweat buildup.

Sherpa fabric definition
Types of Sherpa Fabric
Sherpa Fabric Characteristics
Downsides of Sherpa Fabric
Common Uses of Sherpa Fabric
Sherpa Fabric Pricing
How is Sherpa Made?
Where is Sherpa Manufactured?
Sherpa Fabric Environmental Impact
Sherpa Fabric Certifications
History of Sherpa Fabric
Sherpa Fabric Alternatives
How to sew sherpa fabric?
Can you dye sherpa fabric?

Sherpa fabric definition

Sherpa fabric is a type of fleece that imitates sheep’s wool or yarn. It is also known as faux shearling or faux sheepskin. The name Sherpa comes from the wooly clothing worn by the Sherpa people of Nepal.

Sherpa fabric is loved for its softness and warmth and is commonly used for outerwear and lining. Most Sherpa fabrics are polyester, but some are acrylic, bamboo, and cotton.

The fabric has two sides – wooly, soft, and textured, while the other is smooth knit. Despite being double-layered, Sherpa is lightweight, breathable, and perfect for coats, blankets, and insulation.

Sherpa has become increasingly popular for women’s jackets and sweatshirts because of its luxurious feel.

Sherpa vs. Fleece vs. Shearling

Sherpa and fleece are manufactured materials that do not use animal products. Therefore, if you hear someone refer to Sherpa fur, they talk about a synthetic product, not natural hair.

Fleece is made of polyester and was designed to feel like wool. On the other hand, Sherpa is technically an offshoot of fleece and not an entirely different material. Sherpa is more lightweight than traditional fleece but has the same moisture-wicking properties and warmth.

On the other hand, shearling fabric is the wool and skin of a recently sheared lamb that has been through the tanning process. With shearling, the skin and the thread stay attached and are made for use in clothing and other textiles.

Many people prefer Sherpa because it does not come from nor kill a live animal to be produced. Faux Sherpa is a misnomer because it is animal-free; only some people know the difference.

So, if you see a company advertising faux Sherpa fabrics, understand there is no difference between that and regular Sherpa. The main difference is between Sherpa and shearling.

Types of Sherpa fabric

There are three types of Sherpa. Sherpa was initially produced from polyester as a variation of fleece. The majority of Sherpa is still made from polyester fibers. However, it is also possible to find cotton sherpa, bamboo sherpa, and Sherpa made from acrylic fibers. Like polyester, acrylic is a petroleum-based, synthetic fiber.

Cotton & Bamboo Sherpa

Cotton sherpa is sherpa fabric made from the cotton plant. Cotton sherpa can be 100% cotton, or it can be a blend of cotton and polyester. Sherpa can also be made using bamboo fibers. Sherpa made from cotton, or bamboo can be labeled organic if the cotton used to make the fabric is certified organic.

Many people prefer cotton sherpa because it is plant-based and biodegradable. Organic Sherpa has even less carbon footprint because organic cotton and bamboo use less water to manufacture, resulting in less soil erosion. Organic cotton also has a positive social and economic benefit to many farmers, workers, and communities worldwide.

Polyester Sherpa

Polyester Sherpa is the original Sherpa and the most widely manufactured. Some polyester sherpa may be blended with acrylic or cotton.

The difference between Sherpa and traditional polyester fabric is that Sherpa was designed to be luxuriously soft and supple. Sherpa fabric texture is so different from the original polyester that many people don’t realize that it’s the same textile at its core.

Original polyester sherpa was designed to mimic the heavy wool and fleece people in the Tibetan mountains wear and was used to make jackets and blankets for mountain climbers and hikers. Sherpa is used worldwide to insulate coats, vests, boots, and skiing jackets.

Acrylic Sherpa

Acrylic Sherpa is the least common type of Sherpa. It is usually a blend of acrylic, polyester, and spandex, making it stretchy and pliable. In some instances, acrylic Sherpa is a blend of synthetic fibers and cashmere wool.

Acrylic fabric, like polyester, is a petroleum-based textile and, therefore, synthetic. The acrylic fabric was first introduced in the 1940s by the company DuPont. Acrylic fabrics are often used as a substitute for wool because they are soft and warm.

Acrylic fabric is often used to make sweaters, hats, socks, and knitting yarn. Because acrylic material already so closely resembled wool, it was an easy jump for manufacturers to create acrylic Sherpa.

Sherpa fabric Characteristics

Sherpa fabric is known for its softness, durability, lightweight feeling, and warmth. It is beneficial for skiing and hiking as it is good at wicking moisture away and dries quickly, providing insulation. However, it is not waterproof and should not be used as a raincoat.

Sherpa fabric is also easy to clean, reasonably stain-resistant, breathable, and less bulky than traditional fleece or wool. Additionally, most types of Sherpa have some stretch, making them comfortable to wear. It is worth noting that Sherpa textiles are synthetic and do not harm or use real animals.

It is important to remember that Sherpa fabric is two-sided, with one side being soft and fleecy and the other being knit. Therefore, when using Sherpa for sewing projects, it is recommended to use sharp fabric scissors and a walking foot for your sewing machine.

Downsides of Sherpa-fabric

Sherpa fabric is adored by many for its softness and comfort, but there are a few qualities that may give you pause before deciding to use it. Although Sherpa is easy to wash, it tends to shed during the process. To prevent this, you can use a mesh bag to clean your sherpa items. In addition to clearing, it also tends to pill.

Another thing to remember about Sherpa fabric is that it attracts pet fur and lint. Always keep a lint brush handy when wearing it. Synthetic Sherpa, in particular, tends to trap odors.

Using your Sherpa jacket for hiking or outdoor work may be challenging, as it can quickly develop odors. To prevent these smells from setting in, wash your sherpa items as soon as possible after wearing them.

Working with Sherpa fabric can also be challenging, especially when sewing. Pay attention to the fabric’s nap, and finish off any raw edges to prevent shedding.

Common Uses of Sherpa fabric

Sherpa textiles were initially designed for mountain climbers’ jackets and other clothing. The fabric was ideal for harsh, cold climates thanks to its lightweight, moisture-wicking, and warm properties. The popularity of Sherpa’s effectiveness led clothing manufacturers to incorporate it as insulation in different products.

Sherpa is widely used to make items such as blankets, jackets, patio furniture covers, boots, hats, baby blankets, cloth diapers, and even baby toys! It can be used either as the outer texture or as the insulating layer, depending on the needs of the product.

Due to its lightweight and breathable nature, Sherpa can be combined with other fabrics to create blankets, jackets, and upholstery.

While Sherpa can wick moisture away, it’s unsuitable for patio furniture covers exposed to all kinds of weather. Sherpa is not waterproof and will be damaged if it gets soaked. If your Sherpa item gets rained on, wash it immediately to prevent odors.

Sherpa fabric in Cloth Diapers

Sherpa fabric is a versatile and efficient material increasingly used in cloth diapers. While some manufacturers prefer 100% cotton sherpa, others blend polyester and cotton sherpa for better results. The essential advantage of using Sherpa in diaper inserts is that it is highly absorbent and dries quickly.

Sherpa is unique because it can be placed directly next to your baby’s skin, unlike microfiber. This feature makes it a stay-dry fabric, which keeps the baby’s skin dry even when wet. As a result, wearing it is much more comfortable and reduces the risk of diaper rash.

In addition to being comfortable, Sherpa is also easy to clean. Although it is prone to pilling, air-drying the Sherpa diapers and inserts in the sun should prevent this issue.

Lastly, Sherpa is an excellent alternative for vegans or others who prefer not to use animal products. It is a warm and insulating fabric, similar to wool, but without the use of animal products.

Sherpa fabric Price

Based on our research, the price of sherpa fabric per yard is typically between $9 and $14. The cost of sherpa fabric depends on its composition, with cotton sherpa being more expensive than 100% polyester sherpa. The color and pattern of the sherpa fabric do not usually affect the price, but the softness of the weave does. Luxe, Minky, and heavy-duty Sherpa are on the higher end of the price range.

Some types of Luxe sherpa are designed to feel like llama fur rather than sheep’s wool, and they can cost $15 or more per yard. In addition, the weight of the sherpa fabric also plays a minor role in pricing, with heavy-duty Sherpa tending to be in the $15-$20 range, typically used for upholstery and jackets.

If the price of sherpa fabric seems too low, it’s worth double-checking to ensure it is 100% sherpa, as some materials are blends. Polyester sherpa is cheaper than cotton sherpa, which is why it is less expensive.

How is Sherpa fabric Made?

Sherpa fabric was initially made from polyester fibers, synthetic materials produced using fossil fuels. However, manufacturers are now producing polyesters from plant fibers that are much more environmentally friendly than traditional polyester. As a result, some sherpa manufacturers are beginning to use these textiles.

Sherpa can also be made by blending polyester with acrylic or cotton. In addition, it is produced from cotton and organic cotton.

However, synthetic fibers like polyester and acrylic produce more pollution and waste than natural fibers. The production of these fabric types involves several toxic chemicals and requires large amounts of water. These chemicals are released as greenhouse gases and can also pollute local waterways.

While switching to cotton sherpa may seem like a better option, it is essential to note that many cotton farms worldwide use little more than slave labor. Moreover, it takes over 700 gallons of water to manufacture just one cotton t-shirt.

Where is Sherpa Manufactured?

Like many other fabrics and textiles, Sherpa is mainly manufactured in Asia, particularly in China. Upon conducting an online search, over 300 sherpa manufacturers and suppliers in China, producing and selling a wide range of sherpa products and textiles, were identified. While Mexico also has significant sherpa manufacturers that ship worldwide, those who prefer a more eco-friendly and American-made fabric can turn to Wazoodle Fabrics.

The company produces and sells its ProEco line of bamboo sherpa directly from its website. This high-quality Sherpa is not much more expensive than traditional Sherpa, costing about $15-$20 per yard. Wazoodle Fabrics also offers a ProEco line of organic 100% cotton sherpa that can be purchased from retailers such as Etsy and other fabric retailers. Another American company, Berkshire Blankets, manufactures its line of soft and plush fabrics, including sherpa robes and blankets. They continue manufacturing their textiles with the same mill they started two decades ago.

Sherpa fabric Environmental Impact

Sherpa is a popular fabric in many products, such as blankets and upholstery. However, the environmental impact of Sherpa can be significant, depending on the materials used to produce it. Fabrics made from polyester, acrylic, or a blend of these materials can significantly affect the environment more significantly than 100% organic cotton or bamboo sherpa.

Traditionally, Sherpa has been made from polyester, a synthetic fabric derived from fossil fuels. The manufacturing process of polyester sherpa produces many toxins and pollutants that can harm the air, water, and land. Polyester and acrylic sherpa are not biodegradable, which means they remain on the earth much longer than organic cotton or blended Sherpa.

Synthetic fibers like polyester and acrylic can take hundreds of years to break down, making the Sherpa fabric durable and long-lasting.

To minimize the environmental impact of Sherpa, it is best to look for products made from 100% organic cotton or bamboo. These materials require less water and create less soil erosion. Additionally, the use of organic cotton and bamboo in sherpa production is becoming increasingly popular and can help reduce the manufacturing process’s environmental impact.

Sherpa fabric Certifications

When determining whether a fabric should receive certifications, the quality of Sherpa fabric is only sometimes a deciding factor. Instead, it depends on whether the material is made from synthetic polyester, a blend, or an organic substance like cotton or bamboo.

The most significant certification that Sherpa can achieve is the Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX. This worldwide certification involves a rigorous and independent process, and manufacturers must ensure they meet the necessary standards to maintain it, as it must be renewed annually. It is a highly competitive certification, and only the best manufacturers can obtain it.

Sherpa, made from recycled polyester, is eligible for the Global Recycled Standard or GRS. This is also an independent, third-party certification process. However, GRS is only available for recycled materials. Moreover, the GRS certification ensures manufacturers use environmentally and socially responsible methods to manufacture their products.

Sherpa can also obtain the Global Organic Textile Standard, or GOTS, from organic materials. Similar to GRS, GOTS ensures that the raw materials used for the fabrics are harvested using socially and environmentally friendly methods.

History of Sherpa fabric

Sherpa fabric has a fascinating history that may surprise many people. Although named after the people of Nepal, who have been making clothing and textiles from llama and sheep’s wool for centuries, synthetic Sherpa fabric only existed during the 1970s.

It was developed by a decorative fabric company called Collins & Aikman, founded in 1891, to simulate wool. Collins & Aikman was primarily an auto parts manufacturer but had acquired other businesses over the years to expand their product base. In 1976, they acquired Mastercraft Corporation, the world’s largest producer of woven Jacquard fabrics. The Collins & Aikman Fabric Group was created from that collaboration, and Sherpa Fabric was born.

However, despite being around for decades, Sherpa fabric didn’t become popular in the 1990s when Levi’s started using it to line some of their jackets. Since then, Sherpa has become mainstream and used in various clothing and textiles, including jackets, sweaters, blankets, baby toys, cloth diapers, robes, hats, and as insulation for boots and mantles.

Sherpa fabric Alternatives

There are several alternatives to Sherpa, with wool or shearling being the most apparent. These natural fibres do everything that Sherpa is designed to emulate while having a minor environmental impact. As they are natural, they create less chemical waste and pollution and are biodegradable. However, some people prefer not to use animal products, even if they are not harmful to the animal.

If you are a vegan, fleece might be a better option. Though it is slightly thicker and heavier than Sherpa, it also keeps moisture away and dry. Fleece is also easier to work with, less prone to pilling, and can be ironed. However, it is warmer than Sherpa, and the texture can be slightly rougher. Nevertheless, Sherpa’s silky, soft texture is one of the reasons why customers keep coming back.

How to sew Sherpa fabric

Sewing sherpa fleece requires special attention due to its thickness.
Before sewing your Sherpa fleece, it’s essential to prewash it if it contains cotton to prevent potential shrinkage issues.
When ironing Sherpa, be careful not to damage its fluffy pile with the heat. Use a pressing cloth and moderate settings to avoid crushing or melting the fabric.
Sewing Sherpa can be made more accessible by using a walking foot, as it helps feed the fabric evenly through the machine, especially when sewing multiple layers.
It’s essential to use sharp scissors to ensure clean cuts. When cutting high-pile Sherpa, you might need to cut single layers, as rotary cutters might not be accurate due to the fabric’s fuzzy nature.
Always cut all pattern pieces in the same direction as the nap for consistency. The fabric’s nap determines its softness and appearance in different directions.
When sewing Sherpa, use Jersey or Ball Point Needles and stretch stitches, as it’s a knit fabric.
To prevent stretching, which Sherpa is prone to due to its knit structure, reinforce curved seams immediately after cutting by staystitching cross-grain cuts.
Pins can get lost in the fabric’s nap, so consider using clips like Wonder Clips or binder clips to avoid accidentally sewing over them.
Finally, Sherpa tends to shed quickly, especially during sewing, so finish all raw edges to prevent continuous shedding in the finished garment.
Following these tips, you can effectively handle and sew Sherpa fleece, ensuring a successful sewing project with this unique fabric.

Can you dye sherpa fabric?

Dyeing Sherpa fabric, particularly those made of polyester, can be a challenging task that requires careful preparation and consideration. Unlike natural fibres, polyester fabrics like Sherpa are not easily dyed using regular methods. Here are some essential points to keep in mind:

Preparation is crucial: Before dyeing, the item must undergo a hot wash with a detergent like Synthrapol, which is free from excessive additives, to prepare it for the dyeing process.

Specialized dyeing environment: Dyeing requires a large vessel for the fabric to move freely. Utensils used for dyeing cannot be used for food preparation afterwards due to potential dye contamination.

Heat sensitivity: Polyester fabrics like Sherpa can suffer heat damage at temperatures required for conventional disperse dyes. Home dyes like iDye Poly or Dyemore may not be suitable for fuzzy polyester fabrics.

Pigment dye as an option: Pigment dye, though not widely available, can be an alternative to polyester fabrics. Substitutes like airbrush paint for textiles or thinned acrylic ink/paint with textile medium may be considered, but these can affect the fabric’s feel.

Dye results can vary: Achieving an intense, true black on polyester or natural fibers can be challenging. Black dyes often consist of mixtures, resulting in warm or cool casts, and might not produce an actual black colour.

Experimentation and caution: Dyeing fabric can be an exciting experiment, but it’s essential to acknowledge the risk of unpredictable or undesired results. Refraining from attempting dyeing on items you cannot afford to replace is advisable.
Overall, dyeing Sherpa fabric, especially polyester-based ones, requires careful consideration of the fabric’s nature, dye type, and the risks involved. It’s a process that demands caution, experimentation, and a willingness to accept potential colour variations or outcomes.

Is Sherpa Vegan?

Sherpa is an entirely vegan product.

The name sherpa doesn’t strictly refer to the material from a sheep but rather to the wool-lined clothes worn by the people of Nepal called Sherpas. Although the sherpa material is warm and fluffy, it’s not made of wool. Instead, it’s designed to mimic wool to provide warmth.

FAQs on Sherpa Fabric

How to wash sherpa fabric?

Sherpa wool is easy to maintain and keep clean. Like regular wool, you can wash it in the washing machine on a cool or cold cycle. However, unlike thread, you can dry sherpa wool in your dryer. Using a relaxed, gentle setting is essential to avoid damaging the fabric. While it is safe to use a dryer, air drying is always the best option to ensure the longevity of your custom sherpa products.

Q-1 Why is it called a sherpa?

It was named Sherpa because it mimics the woollen fabric traditionally worn by the Sherpa people of Tibet.

Q-2 What is real Sherpa fabric?

There is no such thing as real Sherpa fabric. When people refer to Sherpa, they either mean the Sherpa people or wool.

Q-3 Is Sherpa fabric expensive?

Sherpa fabric typically costs between $9 and $15 per yard, with some more expensive options available.

Q-4 Is Sherpa fake fur?

Sherpa, a wool-like fabric, is often mistaken for faux fur.

Q-5 Which is the warmer fabric, fleece or Sherpa?

Sherpa and fleece fabrics are excellent at insulating and keeping you warm, but Sherpa is the more generous option.

Q-7 Can Sherpa get wet?

Although Sherpa is water-resistant, it should not be left out in the rain or used as a raincoat because it is not waterproof.

Q-8 What is the difference between Sherpa and shearling?

Sherpa is a synthetic material designed to resemble shearling fur.

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