The Complete Guide to Corduroy and Needlecord Fabrics

Corduroy and needlecord fabrics are commonly used for dressmaking, shirting, trousers, and craft projects. They are durable, cosy, and are available in a variety of thicknesses and wale sizes. In this blog we'll cover everything you need to know about corduroy and needlecord fabrics, from how to care for them to what projects they are best suited for. So grab a cup of tea and settle in—it's time to learn all about corduroy!

Corduroy is a type of twill weave fabric that's characterised by its thick vertical ribs, or "wales." Commonly made from cotton, but can be made from polyester and viscose or a blend of these fibers, it is a sturdy fabric, often used for outerwear garments like jackets and pants. It’s also frequently used for upholstery and heavy-duty crafting projects.

Corduroy fabrics come in a variety of wale sizes, the number of wales per inch (wpi) indicates the thickness of the corduroy fabric; the higher the wpi, the finer the corduroy.

Jumbo cord is the largest type of corduroy, with ridges that are 3-10 wales per inch. It's often used in upholstery projects like couches, ottomans, and chairs. Jumbo cord is also a popular choice for making heavy duty bags like duffle bags and backpacks as well as jackets and coats.