Whether you’re considering Print on Demand, a side hustle, or your own clothing line, understanding the different types of fabric is essential.

No fabric material is the same. Some are light and breathable, others warm and structured, with unique characteristics affecting the feel, wear, and print. The right fabric affects everything from print quality to comfort and durability.

This guide breaks down the main types of fabric in clothing and accessories. Learn everything from natural or synthetic fibers to luxurious fabric choices for formal wear or elegant evening wear.

We’ll also cover eco-friendly materials, blended fabrics, and tips to succeed. No matter what you’re designing, the right fabric will improve your product’s quality, comfort, and performance.

Main fabric categories at a glance

Natural fabrics

Cotton fabric: Breathable, versatile, and widely used

If you’ve worn a comfy tee or pulled on your favorite hoodie, you already know why cotton is the comfort wear. It’s soft, breathable, and holds prints exceptionally well – making it one of the most popular fabrics in the fashion industry.

Common uses: T-shirts, underwear, bedding, baby clothes.
Why it works: Cotton fabric takes color well, washes easily, and feels cozy.
Watch out for: It can shrink or wrinkle without pre-treatment or proper care, so include clear care instructions with your product.

Cotton is one of the textile industry’s most widely used natural fibers. It comes in various forms, including combed, carded, and organic cotton. Combed cotton is a smooth and strong fabric, while carded cotton is more affordable but slightly rougher. Organic cotton uses fewer pesticides and less water, making it more eco-friendly. Traditional cotton plant farming can be resource-intensive – organic cotton helps reduce that impact.

Cotton fabric is naturally absorbent, but not the best option for athletic apparel or moisture-wicking needs. It also comes in a wide range of fabric weights – from lightweight jersey for tees to dense canvas fabric used in bags and outerwear.

Cotton accounts for about 25% of all textile fibers used worldwide, making it one of the most commonly used natural fabrics in the fashion industry. It’s spun into plain woven fabric, heavier canvas, and even structured twill. That versatility makes it a staple in both casual wear and formal pieces –and one of the safest, most reliable types of fabric to start with.

Printful picks with cotton fabric:

• Custom t-shirts

• Classic hoodies

• Unisex sweatpants

• Eco tote bag

Linen: Breathable, light, and summer-friendly

Linen is one of the oldest types of fabric. It’s breathable, lightweight, and has a relaxed texture, making it ideal for summer clothing. Made from the flax plant, it naturally wicks moisture and has a crisp, textured feel that gives garments a breezy, relaxed look. However, it’s less stretchy and smooth than cotton fabric, so it doesn’t suit form-fitting styles or activewear.

Common uses: Summer dresses, button-up shirts, relaxed pants, curtains, napkins.
Why it works: Linen fabrics dry quickly, feel cool, and soften over time.
Watch out for: Wrinkles easily, which adds character but won’t suit all styles. It’ll also shrink if it’s washed incorrectly.

In Print on Demand, linen fabrics are less common than cotton or polyester but shine in specialty items like light home decor or spring/summer fashion. If you’re targeting a seasonal collection or a quiet luxury vibe, it’s worth exploring.

Pro tip: Blend linen fabrics with cotton to reduce wrinkles while maintaining breathability. This improves durability, softens the feel, and makes care simpler for customers.

Source: Adobe Stock, WoolOvers

Silk: Luxurious and smooth

Silk is one of the most elegant types of fabric. It’s known for its glossy surface, soft texture, and elegant drape, making it a go-to for formal wear and upscale accessories. Silk is made from natural protein fibers spun by silkworms and offers a cool, smooth feel.

If you’re building a premium collection, silk (or artificial silk alternatives like rayon or polyester satin) adds instant sophistication.

Common uses: Scarves, sleepwear, luxury blouses, lining for jackets.
Why it works: This fabric is lightweight, drapes beautifully, and feels high-end.
Watch out for: It’s a delicate fabric, pricey, and requires fussy care. Real silk often needs dry cleaning or a cold, careful wash, which turns away low-maintenance shoppers.

If you sell accessories or want to introduce a premium line, silk (or faux silk fabrics like satin or rayon) will make you stand out. Just be clear in your product descriptions. People love how silk feels, but not so much the care requirements.

Not ready to commit to 100% silk? Consider artificial silk blends like polyester satin or rayon for a similar look with easier care and a lower price tag.

Pro tip: True silk may not work with all print methods – most of our silk-style products on Printful are polyester blends that simulate silk’s smooth finish and offer more versatility.

Source: Orange Lingerie, Lulus

Wool: Warm, reliable, and perfect for winter clothing

Wool is one of the few types of fabric that delivers serious warmth without bulk – perfect for winter clothing like beanies, scarves, and high-end sweaters. It’s been used for centuries for a reason: it performs.

Wool is a natural fibre, sheared from animals like sheep, alpacas, or cashmere goats. It’s great at trapping heat while wicking away moisture. It traps warmth without overheating you, wicks moisture, and insulates when wet – ideal for outdoor clothing or layered winter looks.

You won’t see wool as often in print-on-demand items since it’s hard to print on, but it’s worth understanding if you ever branch into other fibres or source blanks yourself.

Common uses: Sweaters, hats, outerwear, socks.
Why it works: This fabric is naturally breathable, holds warmth, and resists odor.
Watch out for: Needs gentle care, can shrink, and won’t work well with certain printing methods.

Fun fact: Wool can be made into plain woven fabrics, which give them a dense, structured feel, great for outerwear that needs to hold its shape.

If you’re building a winter drop, understanding how wool works (and how it compares to synthetic alternatives) will help you offer more value to your customers.

Source: Adobe Stock, Adobe Stock

Hemp: Durable, sustainable, and gaining momentum

If you’re exploring different types of fabric materials for your online shop and care about sustainability, hemp should be on your radar. It’s one of the oldest natural fibers used in textiles. It’s long-lasting, breathable, and surprisingly soft after a few washes.

What makes hemp stand out? It’s a natural fabric that requires less water and fewer pesticides to grow than cotton – an advantage if you’re building a conscious brand. It’s also robust, so your products last longer, even with frequent wear and washes.

Hemp is often blended with cotton or other fibers to improve softness and printability, adapting it for apparel and accessories sold through platforms like Printful. Many of these blends are machine washable, which your customers will appreciate.

Common uses: T-shirts, tote bags, workwear, lightweight outerwear.
Why it works: This fabric is tough, breathable, naturally UV-resistant, and improves with time.
Watch out for: Pure hemp can feel stiff initially and might not give you the smoothest canvas for detailed prints unless blended with other natural fibers.

The fashion industry is embracing hemp, especially among indie brands and upcycled lines. Some fashion designers use hemp for eco-collections because it brings both structure and an earth-friendly story to their garments.

In the textile industry, hemp is gaining momentum thanks to innovations that make it more print-friendly and appealing for casual clothing. If you want to sell something with both grit and sustainable appeal, hemp (or a cotton-hemp blend) might be your winning material.

Synthetic fabrics: Versatile picks that work hard for your business

If you’re trying to keep things low-cost, low-maintenance, and customer-approved, synthetic types of fabrics are worth considering. They’re some of the most commonly used fabrics in fashion – easy to care for, practical for daily wear, and reliable to print on. 

Whether you’re designing casual wear, performance gear, or vibrant statement pieces, synthetic fabrics deliver reliability and ease without raising costs.

Polyester fabric: Durable, low-maintenance, and perfect for bold prints

Polyester is one of the most commonly used types of fabric in the fashion industry. It’s strong, holds its shape, and doesn’t wrinkle easily, making it a low-effort, everyday staple.

Polyester shrinks and fades less than cotton. That’s crucial if you’re selling items customers will wash often, like gym gear or loungewear. Its smooth surface is an excellent base for detailed designs and sublimation printing. Polyester is also naturally stain resistant – important for products that need to stay fresh with minimal care, like tote bags, athletic wear, or kids’ apparel.

Common uses: Activewear, jackets, tote bags, outer layers.
Why it works: This synthetic fabric is tough, retains color, and needs minimal care.
Watch out for: Doesn’t breathe as well as natural fabrics; blends offer a better all-day comfort.

If you’re launching a store or testing designs with bright colors or full coverage, polyester lets you create standout products without the extra care fuss.

Printful picks with polyester:

• All-Over Print Recycled Sports Bra

• Recycled Athletic Shorts

• Unisex All-Over Print Hoodie

• Polyester Tote Bags
  
  

These pieces are ideal for sellers who want to offer easy-care garments, and target customers looking for premium-feel basics.

Source: Les Tissus du Chien Vert, Printful

Valuable read: Polyester vs. cotton shirts – pros, cons, and printing options

Nylon fabric: Lightweight, tough, and built for movement

Nylon is one of the strongest synthetic fibers, developed initially as a silk substitute. It’s a durable fabric with stretch, quick-drying properties – a solid choice for athletic apparel and outerwear.

Despite being a lightweight fabric, nylon holds up against friction and repeated use, so you’ll often find it in outdoor clothing or gear that’s frequently tossed in the wash. It also has a slight sheen, adding a modern, sporty look that works well for certain evening wear styles, especially blended with other fabrics.

Common uses: Windbreakers, leggings, swimwear, gym bags.
Why it works: This fabric is strong, flexible, water-resistant, and easy to clean.
Watch out for: Not as breathable on its own – usually blended with natural fibers or spandex for comfort.

When you create casual clothing that needs to move with the body (think fitted workout sets or sleek printed jackets), nylon blends are a go-to. They’re a core component in performance wear and one of the types of fabric that improve an activewear line.

Blended with other fibres, nylon balances stretch, strength, and style. For online sellers, it’s a practical choice that holds up well while keeping your designs looking fresh – even after multiple wears and washes.

Source: Mood Fabrics, Printful

Rayon fabric: Soft, versatile, and budget-friendly

Soft fabrics that feel expensive without being too pricey – that’s rayon. Made from regenerated cellulose fibers, often derived from wood pulp, it bridges the gap between natural and synthetic fibres. That makes it a top pick for offering high-quality pieces without blowing the budget.

Its smooth finish and natural drape make it lightweight and flowy. For print sellers, this means you can sell premium items without switching to high-maintenance materials like silk.

Common uses: Blouses, dresses, linings, scarves.
Why it works: Breathable, moisture-absorbent, and comfortable to wear – especially for summer clothing.
Watch out for: Rayon can shrink or lose shape if not handled gently. It’s best for pieces that don’t need frequent washing or heavy-duty wear.

Rayon’s plain weave structure gives it a polished look that fits both casual and semi-formal pieces. While it isn’t as durable as other types of fabric, it makes up for it in comfort and versatility, especially for shoppers who want something soft, wearable, and stylish.

Want to offer rayon-based items through Printful? We often use rayon-blend fabrics to increase softness and drape:

• Women’s Athletic Tank (in Black Heather)

• Unisex Tri-Blend T-Shirt

• Unisex Hooded Long Sleeve (Triblend colors)

Source: Unsplash

Spandex fabric: Stretch, comfort, and movement

Spandex (a.k.a. Lycra or elastane) is the quiet hero behind clothing that fits just right. It’s blended into everything from leggings to fitted tees. Basically, any item that needs to stretch without losing shape.

If you plan to sell durable clothes or pieces designed for movement, like gym apparel or loungewear, spandex should be one of your go-to types of fabric. It doesn’t hold prints quite as well on its own. But, when blended with other commonly used fabrics like cotton or polyester, it adds flexibility and durability.

Common uses: Leggings, sports bras, bike shorts, fitted tees, bodycon dresses.
Why it works: This fabric is super stretchy, retains shape, and adds comfort to tighter fits.
Watch out for: On its own, it’s usually too stretchy for crisp prints, but blends fix that.

Spandex blends are ideal for yoga, workouts, or relaxed wear at home. They combine comfort with printability, so your products look great and feel even better. Customers will appreciate the fit, and you’ll see fewer returns from sizing issues.

Printful products with spandex blends:

• All-Over Print Leggings

• Sports Bras

• Biker Shorts

• Fitted Crop Tops

• Sublimated Socks
  
  

These spandex-infused options are perfect for brands focused on movement-friendly fashion. They’re also a solid bet if you’re targeting health-conscious or active shoppers with bold, custom designs.

Source: Adobe Stock, Printful

Blended fabrics: Combining strengths for practical wear

Blended fabrics strike a balance. They combine natural or synthetic fibers to create textiles that check more boxes for comfort, durability, stretch, or easier maintenance. If you’re starting a small brand, blends let you offer something that feels good, wears well, and keeps costs low.

Common fabric blends worth knowing

Cotton-polyester is one of the most commonly used blends. You get the softness and breathability of cotton with polyester’s wrinkle resistance and shape retention. That’s exactly what you want in casual wear – zero fuss, fresh out of the dryer. Cotton is also the basis for twill fabric structures like denim and chino, known for their diagonal weave and added durability.

Source: Vecteezy, Printful

Other smart combos include:

• Wool and acrylic: A cozy pairing for sweaters with a luxurious texture or winter clothing. You get warmth and softness without the tricky care instructions.

• Nylon and spandex: A go-to for athletic apparel and fitted styles, thanks to serious stretch and recovery.

• Linen and cotton: A lightweight fabric duo that’s breezy and less prone to wrinkles than pure linen fabrics. Great for summer clothing drops.
  
  

Some blends, like those used in twill fabric, offer structure and durability, ideal for workwear and everyday fashion. French terry is another popular knitted fabric blend, usually made from cotton or cotton-polyester. Its looped texture on the inside and smooth finish on the outside make it ideal for casual pieces that feel soft but hold up well after multiple wears.

Blends aren’t just practical, they’re also a clever way to match fashion trends without blowing your budget. Many brands now use natural fibers like organic cotton mixed with recycled polyester to create durable fabric that combines comfort and sustainability. For example, twill fabric made with cotton blends has a smooth finish and added resilience, which helps reduce returns due to shrinking or pilling.

Printful offers a range of blended options ideal for Print on Demand, like tri-blend tees (cotton, polyester, rayon) and fleece-lined hoodies. These pieces hold their shape, feel great, and deliver reliable print quality – all things your customers remember during their next shopping spree.

Why fabric behaviour matters in blends

Understanding how different types of fabric behave when blended helps you design better, avoid production errors, and keep your product reviews glowing. And you don’t need to sew a single stitch to get started. Just pick a product that aligns with your brand and let the blend do the heavy lifting.

Look out for:

• Dense pile blends in fleece products: They feel like plush fabric but can absorb more ink or lint if not printed carefully.

• Sustainable takes on twill fabric: Eco-conscious designers favor organic cotton or recycled blends to create tougher, longer-lasting garments.

• Decorative fabrics like velvet blends: Visually striking but often less practical for everyday wear.
  
  

Source: Solid Stone Fabrics, John Lewis & Partners

In short, blends are your go-to when you need clothes that look good, last long, and meet real-world needs, especially if you’re balancing cost with quality while trying to grow your business. 

Don’t overlook fabric construction either. Whether it’s a plain weave, knitted fabric, or semi-synthetic fabric, it impacts both the texture and how well your design prints.

Sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics: Meet demand with materials that make a difference

If you’re building a long-term brand or want to stand behind what you sell, eco-friendly fabrics are worth exploring. They appeal to customers who care about the environment, especially as more people start paying attention to what their clothes are made of.

Here’s a breakdown of some popular sustainable options and why they might work for you.

Source: IndiaMART, OVS

Organic cotton

Grown without harsh chemicals, the cotton plant is better for the planet and anyone with sensitive skin. It’s a reliable natural fabric that works across many types of clothing materials, from tees to hoodies. Printful has several products made with 100% organic cotton, which makes it easy to offer sustainable options in your store.

Printful picks for organic cotton

• Organic Cotton Apron

• Unisex Organic Cotton T-Shirt

• Kids Organic Cotton T-Shirt
  
  

Source: Unsplash

Bamboo

Technically a semi-synthetic fabric, bamboo is super soft and naturally moisture-wicking. Thanks to its smooth drape, it’s often found in basics, loungewear, or even evening wear. And because it resists odors, it’s great for athletic apparel, too.

Tencel (also known as Lyocell)

Tencel is made from wood pulp using a closed-loop process that recycles water and solvents. It’s breathable and has a smooth surface, plus its slightly stiff texture gives structure to garments like tops and evening gowns. Because it has a low environmental impact, it’s a strong pick for sustainable brands.

Recycled materials

These types of fabric repurpose plastic bottles and old clothes. They’re tough, dry quickly, and blend well with other fibres. That’s why you’ll often see recycled fabrics in outdoor clothing or combined with cotton for something that’s both eco-friendly and practical.

Recycled fabrics vary in texture. Some have a classic plain woven fabric finish, while others might have a crinkled surface that adds texture. Because of that, it’s always smart to order a sample first, especially if you’re planning to print designs.

Source: Unsplash

Pro tip: Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or OEKO-TEX when browsing materials. Printful lists these on relevant product pages, so you know what you’re working with.

If your customers care about sustainability, adding these various fabrics to your product range helps you stand out. Browse our full selection of eco-friendly products to see what fits your brand best.

Choosing the right fabric for your needs

Whether you’re customizing clothes to sell online, building a brand, or starting a side hustle through Print on Demand, choosing the right fabric saves you time, money, and hassle. The fabric impacts how your product looks, feels, lasts, and whether people will want to buy it.

Source: Lush Fabrics, Alitools

Start with the end goal in mind

Think about what kind of product you’re offering. Will it need to stretch? Keep someone warm or stay cool in the heat? Feel soft or structured? Your answers help narrow down the types of fabric that make the most sense.

For example:

• Cotton or cotton blends for t-shirts: soft, breathable, and great for everyday use.

• Polyester, nylon, or spandex blends for activewear: ideal for movement and moisture-wicking.

• Fleece-lined cotton blends or heavier polyester for hoodies or sweatshirts: warm and durable.

Knowing the different types of fabric material upfront helps you avoid wasting cash on products that fall short once printed.

Prioritize print compatibility

Some fabrics, especially those made from natural or synthetic fibers, hold designs better than others. Cotton absorbs ink well, making it ideal for high-quality direct-to-garment (DTG) prints. Polyester is more resistant to fading and shrinkage, but may require sublimation printing. Check with your print provider to confirm which materials work best for your chosen method (like DTG, DTF, or sublimation).

Keep care and durability in mind

For selling, you’ll want fabric that’s not just good-looking but also practical. Polyester is low-maintenance and wrinkle-resistant, which is perfect for busy buyers. Silk looks and feels premium, but it limits your customer base due to its delicate nature.

Quick tip: Always include care instructions. If an item needs delicate washing, let customers know upfront.

Source: Pexels

Choose fabrics that match your budget

Let’s be honest, fabric costs affect your profit margins. If you’re watching your wallet, synthetic fabrics like polyester or rayon are generally more affordable than natural fibers. Compare costs per item, not just per yard. Don’t forget to factor in shipping, print compatibility, and how blends or bulk pricing affect your bottom line.

Think about texture, drape, and what your buyers want

Are you going for cozy and casual or sleek and structured? For chill basics, look for brushed cotton or fleece. Want something with premium vibes? Modal or bamboo fabrics feel upscale without a huge price jump.

Drape matters too – flowy fabrics like rayon or modal are ideal for dresses or relaxed tees. Meanwhile, structured materials like cotton twill or heavier polyester work better for jackets, uniforms, or everyday staples that need shape.

Source: Contrado, Printful

Order samples before launching

A fabric might look good online but feel totally different in real life. That’s why samples are key. Order a few printed items, wash them, wear them, and see how they hold up before committing to bulk listings.

Pro tip: Order samples from Printful and get 20% off your purchase. 

Source: Pexels

Use sustainability to strengthen your brand

Eco-conscious customers care about what they wear and how it’s made. If your business is eco-friendly, look at organic cotton, recycled polyester, bamboo, or hemp. These types of fabric not only reduce impact but can also serve as a marketing edge.

Choosing fabric isn’t just a design decision – it’s a business one. The materials you work with directly affect how your products look, feel, and sell. When you understand the different types of fabric and what they’re best suited for, it’s easier to create items your customers will love and return for.

Source: Pexels

Picking the right fabric for your business

Whether you print high-end sweaters, comfy tees, or branded tote bags, choosing the right material is more than just looks. A smart fabric selection means fewer customer complaints, better print results, and products that last.

Some commonly used materials are affordable and print-friendly, but not all fabrics are equal. Low-cost options may be treated with harsh chemicals that affect how they wear, wash, or feel. If you care about longevity and customer satisfaction, explore other fibers, like Tencel, modal, or bamboo, that balance comfort with durability and a softer environmental footprint.

Different types of fabric construction also have unique characteristics. A knitted fabric offers stretch and comfort, while an open weave fabric like linen allows airflow, helping regulate body temperature during hot weather. Understanding the uses of fabric (whether for breathability, structure, or elegance) helps you match the material to the design and customer needs.

The takeaway? Use materials that align with your product goals and customer expectations. Whether you’re testing your first design on Etsy, setting up a Shopify store, or building a lifestyle brand from your living room, knowing the different types of fabric gives you an edge.

It’s not just about how it looks – it’s about how it wears, feels, and earns repeat customers.
 

Source: Unsplash