Velour fabric has a mysterious past that dates to the mid-19th century. Though it’s known for its softness and plushness like velvet, it was initially a cheaper and more affordable alternative to velvet. The velour texture is similar to velvet but less lustrous and more accessible.

This fabric evolved from silk to cotton and moved from complex double-layer weaving to more straightforward pile knitting, which gave it a unique identity. However, with the advent of synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, velour’s affordability came hand in hand with a negative environmental impact. Velour has undergone an intriguing journey marked by evolution, affordability, and a trade-off between luxury and sustainability.

• Fabric Name: Velour
• Synonyms: Velveteen, Plush
• Fiber Type: Primarily Synthetic (may contain natural components like cotton)
• Breathability: Moderate
• Absorbency: Varies based on material composition
• Characteristics: Soft, Plush Texture, Moderate Breathability, Resistant to Pilling
• Washing Requirements: Best washed in Cold or Cool Water
• Common Uses: Versatile – Upholstery, Bathrobes, Jewelry Cases, Jackets, Theatrical Curtains, Tracksuits, Dresses, Suits
• Heat Press Temperature: Iron on Low Heat with a Towel as a protective layer

Additional Fabric Details:

• Fabric Name Variations: Velours
• Fabric Composition: Cotton, Synthetic Fibers, or Leather
• Possible Thread Count Variations: Typically 100 to 300
• Breathability: Moderate
• Moisture-wicking Abilities: Varies by Material Composition
• Heat Retention Abilities: Medium
• Stretchability (Give): Depends on Material Blend
• Prone to Pilling/Bubbling: Generally Low, Higher with Synthetic Materials
• Country of Origin: France
• Primary Exporting/Producing Country Today: China
• Recommended Washing Temperatures: Typically Machine Washed in Cool or Cold Water
• Commonly Used in Diverse Applications – Stage Curtains, Bathrobes, Hats, Dancewear, Upholstery, Jewelry Cases, Sweaters, Jackets, Pants, Shirts, Tracksuits, Dresses

• What is velour fabric?
• History of velour
• Velour fabric Now a days
• What is velour fabric?
• Types of Velour
• How is Velour Fabric Made?
• Where is Velour Fabric Made?
• Velour Fabric Characteristics
• Common Uses of Velour Fabric
• Velour Fabric in Cloth Diapers
• Velour Fabric Price
• Disadvantages of Velour Fabric
• Velour Fabric Alternatives
• Velour Fabric Environmental Impact:

Velour fabric is a lavish and opulent material that resembles velvet in texture and appearance. The term velour is derived from the French word for velvet, emphasizing its close connection to this fancy fabric. Despite some similarities between velvet and velveteen, velour is different as it is a pile knit fabric instead of a pile weave fabric. This difference is crucial in both its production and overall qualities.

In the 19th century, velour emerged as a more affordable alternative to the expensive velvet, but it only became widely produced in the 20th century. Although traditionally made of cotton, modern velour fabric is primarily polyester due to its affordability, ease of production, and durability. The production process of polyester, a synthetic textile made from coal and petroleum, involves various chemicals.

The distinctive feature of pile fabrics, including velour, is the existence of raised fibers or yarns that protrude from the fabric base.

Velour is an appealing fabric because of its softness, plushness, and resemblance to velvet. Although it is not identical to velvet, it provides a similar luxurious feel and visual allure. Velour is slightly stretchy because of its knit construction, which makes it more durable and heavier than velvet. Therefore, velour offers a luxurious tactile experience and can be used in many versatile ways.

History of velour

The origin of velour fabric is disputed, but its etymology suggests that it was first developed in France. The identity of the initial manufacturer needs to be clarified. Velour fabric dates back to the 1840s and was extensively used in upholstery throughout the following century. The demand for an affordable substitute for velvet has been observed for some time. Although velvet was popular among people from all economic backgrounds, its complex manufacturing process made it expensive.

Efficient velvet production methods were developed in the early 20th century. By this time, velour had already established itself as a low-cost fabric with velvet-like features. However, despite the manufacturers’ best efforts, it never gained popularity in the upscale garment industry because it was coarser than velvet.

Furniture manufacturers commonly employed velour as an upholstery material, and, at some point, it replaced velvet as the go-to material for stage curtains. The use of velour in apparel was limited until the mid-1960s when fashion designers began to capitalize on the trend towards non-conservative clothing. Velour jackets, pants, shirts, and other apparel became normalized throughout the 1970s before losing popularity in the 1980s.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, velour experienced a resurgence in popularity when famous fashion designers started dressing celebrities in velour tracksuits. These brightly-colored tracksuits, characterized by their tight-fitting upper portions and flared legs, were briefly popular before becoming outdated.

Velour fabric Now a days

As an apparel material, Velour has recently lost significant popularity. While Velour tracksuits are still available, they are usually only fashionable among members of particular cultural affiliations and are not well-accepted within mainstream society. However, velour sweaters still have some universal popularity, and velour shirts and jackets remain reasonably common.

On the other hand, velour stage curtains are a timeless application of this material. Usually made with polyester, velour stage curtains have become such an inextricable part of theatrical culture that alternatives will most likely never gain significant traction.

Velour vs. Velvet 

Velour and velvet are two fabrics that are often confused with each other. While velour was designed to mimic velvet, they are not the same. Velvet is a luxurious fabric that dates back to around 2000 BC and is made from wool. Velour, on the other hand, is a more modern fabric that was invented around 1840, and it is typically made from cotton or polyester.

Velvet is often used to create clothing such as dresses and suits because of its soft texture and elegant appearance. Velour, on the other hand, is primarily used for upholstery and curtains due to its durability and affordability. However, velour can also make clothing items such as dresses and tracksuits.

Suede, another popular fabric, is often compared to velvet and velour because of its soft, velvety texture. However, suede is made from animal skin, usually cow, and is brushed to create a peaceful nap.

Types of Velour

Velour is a fabric typically made from cotton or synthetic materials like polyester but can also be made from other materials. There are several types of velour, including cotton velour, synthetic velour, velour leather, velveteen, and duvetyne. In the following sections, we will discuss each type of velour fabric in more detail.

Cotton Velour:

Cotton velour is the original type of velour that emerged around the mid-19th century. Initially developed as a more affordable alternative to silk velvet, cotton velour maintained several properties similar to the fabric it aimed to imitate. It was commonly used for drapes, stage curtains, and upholstery. Over time, its usage expanded into apparel like hoodies, tracksuits, dresses, blankets, pillows, and home decor due to its softness, versatility, and comfort.

Synthetic Velour (Polyester Velour):

Synthetic velour, predominantly made from polyester, has become more prevalent in modern times due to its cost-effectiveness in production. It closely resembles cotton velour in appearance but may lack the same level of smoothness in texture. It is commonly treated with flame retardants, making it a popular choice for stage curtains and theatrical settings. Synthetic velour is used in similar applications as cotton velour, including clothing, upholstery, curtains, home decor, and bedding.

Velour Leather:

Although velour leather deviates from the typical fabric construction, it refers to soft, suede-like leather. It’s derived from animal hide and is known for its exceptionally smooth texture. Velour leather finds applications in shoes, watch bands, jackets, and upholstery, providing a luxurious feel akin to suede.

Velveteen:

Velveteen, akin to velour and velvet, was historically made using cotton, offering a more affordable option than traditional silk velvet. Its production process is similar to velvet but with different textile materials, resulting in a shorter pile and a thicker texture. While it doesn’t drape as elegantly as velvet or velour, velveteen remains soft and plush, utilized in various fashion and home decor applications.

It is best known for the famous children’s story The Velveteen Rabbit by Margaery Williams, which uses velveteen.

Duvetyne:

Duvetyne is a fabric akin to velour, possessing a velvety nap but only on one side. It can be manufactured using cotton or wool and boasts an opaque matte surface, making it ideal for blocking light. Commonly used in theater curtains and film industries for costumes and scenery, duvetyne is often treated with fire retardants and is known for its light-controlling capabilities.A theatrical cyclorama or backdrop can also be made from this fabric.

Moving on to specific variations within velour fabrics:

Stretch Velour:

This velour type is characterized by its stretchiness, making it ideal for form-fitting garments, activewear, and sportswear. It offers flexibility, comfort, and ease of movement due to its stretch properties.

Crushed Velour:

Crushed velour is processed to create a crushed or wrinkled appearance intentionally. It adds texture and depth to the fabric, giving it a unique visual appeal, often used in fashion for a distinct look.

Micro Velour:

Micro velour features fine fibers that create a soft and velvety surface. It’s known for its luxurious feel and is often used in high-end apparel and upholstery for its plushness and smoothness.

Each type of velour fabric offers advantages and applications, catering to diverse needs in fashion, upholstery, and decorative items, providing luxury and comfort in various settings.

How is Velour Fabric Made?

The production process of velour fabric involves several essential steps, starting from the selection of materials to the weaving process and post-production treatments:

Material Selection:

Velour fabric can be crafted from various materials, with cotton and polyester being the primary choices. Cotton, a natural fiber, requires cultivation, harvesting, and cleaning before it can be utilized. On the other hand, polyester, a synthetic fiber derived from petroleum and chemicals, is spun into thin threads resembling plastic.

Fiber Yarn Production:

For polyester, the manufacturing process involves creating polymer components from coal and petroleum. These components are processed using toxic chemicals, forming a liquid polymer extruded through spinnerets to produce fibers. These polyester fibers can be spun into yarn or transformed into thicker fibers resembling yarn.

Weaving Process – Pile Knit Technique:

Velour fabric is crafted using a weaving technique known as the pile knit process. Traditionally, velvet was created using a specialized handloom, weaving two textiles simultaneously, making the production process time-consuming and costly. Velour’s development as an alternative to velvet was spurred by simplifying this process to reduce costs.

The pile knit technique involves knitting two different base fabrics onto needles and subsequently joining them in an overlapping motion. Although velvet and velour are categorized as pile fabrics, the specific technique used in velour production—pile knit—differs from the process employed in traditional velvet weaving.

Post-Weave Treatments:

Once the velour fabric has been woven, it may undergo several post-production treatments. While dyeing can occur before or after weaving, the material may undergo dyeing processes after the entire bolts are complete. Polyester velour intended for stage curtains commonly undergoes flame-retardant treatments to enhance safety, reducing its flammability and potential as a fire accelerant in theater settings.

These post-weave treatments enhance the fabric’s properties or meet specific requirements based on its intended application. Dyeing ensures the desired color, while additional treatments like flame retardants contribute to safety measures in certain use cases.

Overall, the production of velour fabric involves selecting suitable materials, implementing the pile knit weaving process, and subsequent treatments to achieve the desired appearance, characteristics, and functionality of the fabric for various applications in apparel, upholstery, curtains, and more.

Where is Velour Fabric Made?

Velour fabric has been produced globally since its origins in France in the mid-19th century, serving diverse markets and applications.

Historical Origins and Key Manufacturing Countries:

France: As the birthplace of velour, France continues to manufacture this fabric significantly. Some production still occurs in France, leveraging its historical connection to the material.

China: China emerged as a significant player in producing and exporting velour fabric. China is the largest exporter of finished cotton and synthetic textiles and contributes significantly to the global textile market. Shaoxing Textiles in China stands out as one of the world’s largest fabric producers, manufacturing substantial quantities of both velvet and velour.

India: Known as the largest producer of raw cotton globally, India’s textile industry contributes significantly to velour production, especially considering its vast cotton resources. The country manufactures substantial velour annually, contributing to the global supply.

Other Countries: Beyond the primary manufacturing nations, countries like Brazil, Turkey, and Germany also have a notable presence in the production of velour fabric, though their scale may not match the output of major producers like China and India.

Cotton and Polyester Fiber Production:

India is a significant contributor to velour manufacturing due to its large-scale cultivation of raw cotton, a crucial component in production. Meanwhile, China is the largest producer and exporter of synthetic fabric products, including polyester-based velour fabric. This makes China a significant contributor to the global supply of velour fabric.

Specific Manufacturers and Specialized Use Cases:

Tongxiang Zhuoyi Textile Co. is a renowned manufacturer of velour, specializing in catering to the upholstery and curtain industry.

In the United States, Chicago Canvas and Supply is a notable producer of medium and heavyweight flame-retardant velour. Their velour is primarily used for theatrical curtains.

Velour Fabric Characteristics

Velour fabric is known for its softness, durability, thickness, moderate breathability, and warmth. The qualities of velour fabric may vary depending on the materials used to make them. Cotton velour is the softest to the touch but the least durable. Nevertheless, all types of velour are highly durable and possess a high abrasion resistance, making them perfect for upholstery and curtains.

Velour fabric has a soft nap on both sides, except for duvetyne and some styles of velour leather, which are napped on one side only. It is also typically stretchy, making it an excellent choice for tops, leggings, tracksuits, and dresses. Additionally, it is opaque, has a soft luster to the color, and does not usually fade.

While velour fabrics are usually knit, manufacturers sometimes weave the material.

Common Uses of Velour Fabric

Clothing and Apparel:

Dresses, Skirts, Tops: Velour is commonly used in fashion apparel, adding a touch of luxury to dresses, skirts, and tops due to its softness and elegant appearance.

Jackets, Coats: It’s often found in jackets and dress coats, providing style and warmth.

Tracksuits, Pants, Hoodies: The fabric gained popularity in the 60s and 70s among musicians and continued its prominence in the 90s when sportswear brands incorporated it into tracksuits and hoodies. Its use in sportswear remains prevalent.

Home Decor and Upholstery:

Furniture Upholstery: Velour is a common choice for upholstery, adding an element of sophistication and opulence to sofas, chairs, and ottomans in homes and commercial spaces.

Decorative Pillows and Cushions: They are the most outstanding contemporary pillows and cushions, offering comfort and style in interior decor.

Accessories and Crafts:

Hats, Gloves, Scarves: Velour is used to craft cold-weather accessories, providing a luxurious touch to hats, gloves, and scarves.

Costumes and Dress-Up Pieces: They are utilized in creating costume pieces such as dresses, hats, gloves, and even Santa suits, adding a plush and lavish feel to dress-up attire.

Automotive Upholstery:

Car Interiors: Velour finds applications in automotive upholstery, particularly car interiors, adding a touch of luxury and comfort to seats and carpeting.

Theatrical and Film Industry:

Curtains, Backdrops, Costumes: One of the primary uses of velour fabric is in the entertainment industry for dramatic curtains, backdrops, scenery, and costumes. Its rich texture and appearance make it ideal for creating an ambiance and enhancing visual aesthetics in picturesque settings.

Industrial Uses:

Vacuum Cleaners: Velour is used in some vacuum cleaners, aiding in trapping debris due to its plush texture.

Jewelry and Hat Box Lining: A lining material in jewelry and hat boxes adds a soft and protective layer.

Velour Fabric in Cloth Diapers

When we think of cloth diapering, velour fabric may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, it is commonly used in all-in-one, and hybrid cloth diapers. Although not very absorbent, velour is a soft, plush fabric that is gentle and comfortable on your baby’s skin. Cotton velour is often used as the inner layer of all-in-one or pocket diapers, while the outer layer will be made of waterproof PUL material.

Velour diapers may be more complicated to find nowadays as other fabrics like microfiber and microfleece have gained popularity. However, many independent sellers on websites like Etsy still manufacture and sell them. Parents can also look for velour cloth diapers in second-hand shops or cloth diaper forums.

Nicki’s Diapers, a small cloth diapering business, offers the Sloomb Happy Little Clouds velour fitted diaper in sizes 1 and 2 for $34 each.

Velour Fabric Price

Velour is an affordable fabric option that costs less than $7 per yard. It comes in a wide range of colors and prints, making it a popular choice for many. The price of velour fabric can vary depending on the quality, with high-quality options costing between $15 and $20 per yard.

The type of material used to make the velour fabric can also affect the price. Cotton velour is more expensive than synthetic velour, with an average price of $10 to $15 per yard. Organic cotton velour is slightly pricier at around $25 per yard.

While the weight and width of the velour fabric may slightly impact its cost, the type of material used is the primary factor.

Compared to velvet, velvet is a much more economical choice, with velvet starting at around $15 per yard and going up to $30 or more per yard.

Disadvantages of Velour Fabric

Velour fabric has some significant disadvantages, including poor durability. With time, the quality of velour fabric can deteriorate, and it can wear down. Additionally, velour is prone to pilling and snagging, and the edges tend to curl and fray.

The curled and frayed edges of velour make it challenging to match the edges adequately when working with the fabric for sewing projects. Even after sewing, velour can still fray over time.

Another major downside of velour is that it tends to shrink, making it less than ideal for clothing items worn frequently. Furthermore, velour furniture tends to collect and hold onto dust, making it difficult to clean. Cleaning velour furniture often requires water, soap, and a fabric brush, while delicate velour clothing may require hand washing or dry cleaning.

Velour Fabric Alternatives

Velvet is the most natural alternative to velour, especially regarding texture and softness. However, velour is more affordable than velvet, so it largely depends on your budget and intended use.

Microfiber and microfleece are other alternatives to velour, particularly in cloth diapering. While velour is softer and can be worn directly on your baby’s skin, microfiber is less expensive.

Different types of velour can also be alternatives to each other. For instance, people who prefer natural fabrics might choose cotton velour, whereas those who are more cost-conscious might opt for synthetic velour.

Satin and silk are also good alternatives to velour, especially for home textiles such as bedding, curtains, pillows, and clothing like dresses, suits, tops, and skirts.

Velour Fabric Environmental Impact:

Velour fabric’s environmental impact varies based on the materials used in its production. Synthetic velour, predominantly crafted from polyester or rayon, presents notable ecological concerns due to its non-biodegradable nature and reliance on toxic chemicals during manufacturing. While velour is not mass-produced like other synthetics, its contribution to water, air, and land pollution remains concerning, mainly due to polyester’s role in microfiber water pollution.

Synthetic Velour Impact:

Non-Biodegradability: Synthetic velour, being non-biodegradable, adds to environmental degradation as it doesn’t decompose naturally.

Chemical Usage: Toxic chemicals produced by synthetic fibers pose risks to the environment and textile workers.

Microfiber Pollution: Though items like stage curtains are rarely washed, synthetic velour clothing contributes to microfiber pollution in the hydrosphere during washing.

Cotton Velour Impact:

Chemical Usage: While cotton velour has fewer toxins, conventional cotton farming involves the heavy use of agrochemicals, leading to soil erosion and environmental degradation.

Water Consumption: Cotton cultivation demands substantial water resources, contributing significantly to water usage in agriculture.

Despite its environmental impact, velour production remains relatively low compared to more widely produced textiles. The fabric’s impact can vary based on the type of velour and its intended use, with synthetic versions posing more substantial concerns regarding pollution and non-biodegradability.

Velour Fabric Certifications Available:

Flame Retardant Certifications:

Manufacturers producing velour for stage curtains, film use, or scenery often seek flame retardant certifications, typically approved by fire marshals.

Organic Cotton Certifications:

American-made organic cotton velour can apply for USDA and European Commission organic certifications, ensuring the use of organically grown cotton. Cotton velour fabric may be eligible for organic certification from USDA or European Commission and OEKO-TEX regardless of origin.

Recycled Materials Certification:

Manufacturers utilizing recycled plastics for synthetic velour production may pursue the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification.

Organic Textile Certifications:

Velour made from organic cotton may be eligible for the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification, irrespective of its origin.

Standardization Certifications:

100% synthetic velour manufacturers can seek International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification, adhering to established global standards.

FAQ

What kind of fabric is velour?

Velour, sometimes spelled velours, is a luxurious, knitted fabric that resembles velvet or velveteen. It is commonly made from cotton but can also be created using synthetic materials like polyester. Typically, it includes a certain amount of elastane to enhance its comfort and durability.

 Is velour fabric expensive?

Velour fabric is a cost-effective alternative to genuine velvet and is comparable to other materials. Cotton velour is typically more expensive than polyester velour.

 Is velour 100% cotton?

Both types of velour are typically composed of 100% cotton. Although woven velour and velvet are often confused or assumed to be the same fabric, they are two distinct materials. They differ in weaving techniques, with velvet having a longer pile and more decorative uses.

 Can you wear velour in the rain?

Velvet made from cotton or polyester won’t be damaged by water. However, raindrops will permanently disrupt the nap of rayon or acetate velvet where they hit.

How do you maintain velour?

According to Sokolowski, using a soft brush or lint roller to remove surface dust and dirt is essential. Lightly furniture once a week or as needed lightly. If you spill something or notice a stain, it’s best to treat it immediately with spot-cleaning. Sokolowski advises not to let stains sit on the fabric, as they could become more challenging to remove over time.

Is velour fabric breathable?

Velour is a heavy fabric with limited breathability.

Is the velour fabric machine washable?

In most cases, velour can be machine washed; however, some items may require hand washing or dry cleaning.

Is velour fabric hard-wearing?

Velour could be more durable, but it often frays and snags easily.

What is the difference between velour vs. velvet?

Velour is made from cotton or polyester, while velvet is made from wool with a silk layer.

What is the difference between velour vs. Suede?

Velour can be made from either cotton or polyester, while Suede is crafted from animal hide and brushed for a soft velvet nap.

What is the difference between velour vs. leather?

Animal hides are tanned and treated to make leather, while velour is a woven fabric made of cotton or polyester fibers.

What is the difference between velour vs. fleece?

Fleece and velour are synthetic fabrics made from polyester, but fleece is intended to replicate wool, and velour is intended to replicate velvet.

What is the difference between velour vs. terry cloth?

Velour and terry cloth are made from cotton but have different textures. Velour is a soft, plush woven fabric, while terry cloth is a looped fabric commonly used to make towels and cleaning cloths.

What is the difference between velour vs. cotton?

Velour was traditionally made from cotton, but it replicated velvet. Although cotton is soft, it does not have a velour plush nap.

Is velour material stretchy?

Some velour fabrics contain synthetic materials, making them stretchy, while others are not. The stretchiness depends on the fabric type and composition.

What’s the difference between velvet and velour fabrics?

Many people confuse velour with velvet because they have a similar texture. However, they are made using different materials. Velour is usually made from cotton or synthetic fabrics, making it a more affordable option than silk-based velvet. Even though velour may look like velvet, it is a unique fabric with distinct properties.

Is velour fabric good for summer?

Velour fabric is denser than lighter fabrics, making it less breathable. As a result, it may not be suitable for hot and humid summer weather.

Is velour fabric warm?

Velour’s plush texture and dense pile provide warmth and insulation, making it a comfortable choice for cooler temperatures.

How to wash velour fabric?

To wash velour, use cold water on a gentle cycle. Be careful not to add too much detergent, making the fabric stiff. Velour only requires a small amount of detergent for cleaning. Once the wash cycle is done, take the velour from the washer and shake it.

Conclusion

Velour is a versatile material with exceptional comfort, style, and durability. It can be made from various materials, including cotton, polyester, silk, and rayon, each with unique textures. Due to fabric technology advancements, variations of velour textiles may be created, ensuring they remain popular in the textile industry. Whether you need fabric for clothing or upholstery, velour is an excellent choice.