The main difference between chamois and flannel is that chamois is thicker, softer, and more absorbent than flannel.
Chamois and flannel are two types of soft fabrics. The name chamois also refers to a type of leather. But in this article, we are mainly discussing chamois fabric. It’s important to know the difference between chamois and flannel if you want to choose the right fabric for your next sewing project.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Chamois
– Definition, Features
2. What is Flannel
– Definition, Features
3. Difference Between Chamois and Flannel
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Chamois, Flannel, Fabric
What is Chamois
We use the name chamois to refer to two types of materials: chamois leather and chamois fabric. Both share some similar features. Chamois leather is made from the hides of a European goat-antelope and was used to make gloves.
The chamois fabric has a plain weave and resembles and functions like chamois leather. This fabric is made from cotton. We frequently use chamois as a cloth to wash and wax cars since it is more durable, thicker, and softer than flannel. Due to its relative softness, it rarely causes scratches or a paint peeling on automobile finishes. Manufacturers use cotton fibers to reproduce this softness because they are quite absorbent. In fact, chamois is more absorbent than flannel.
What is Flannel
Flannel is a soft, woven fabric that is made of cotton or wool. It’s usually a medium-weight fabric with a napped, fuzzy finish on both sides or one side. This napped finish is a result of brushing or characteristic loose weave. Originally, flannel was made from worsted yarn or carded wool, but now it is often made from cotton, wool, or even synthetic fiber. We commonly use flannel for blankets, bed sheets, sleepwear, and tartan clothing.
Flannel has a soft and cozy feel and is a perfect fabric to keep you warm and comfortable during the winter. You can also brush the fabric to create extra softness. Brushing involves using a fine metal brush to rub the fabric, which raises the fine fibers, forming a nap.
Moreover, flannel gets softer as the fabric gets older. It’s a low-maintenance fabric as you don’t have to dry clean, iron, or replace it often. Flannel is easy to clean and care for. This fabric also won’t hold odors.
Difference Between Chamois and Flannel
Definition
Chamois fabric is a soft material that feels like leather, while flannel is a soft, woven fabric that is made of cotton or wool.
Absorbency
Chamois is very absorbent, while flannel is somewhat absorbent.
Composition
While chamois is made of cotton with a simple weave, flannel can be made from wool, cotton, or even synthetic fibers.
Features
Chamois is soft and smooth, while flannel is soft, fuzzy, and comfortable. In fact, chamois is softer than flannel.
Thickness
Moreover, chamois is thicker than flannel.
Weight
Chamois comes in various weights, while flannel is a medium-weight fabric.
Uses
We use chamois for normal clothing and as a cleaning cloth, and flannel for blankets, bed sheets, sleepwear, and tartan clothing.
Cost
Moreover, chamois tends to be more expensive than flannel.
Conclusion
Chamois fabric is a soft material that feels like leather, while flannel is a soft, woven fabric that is made of cotton or wool. The main difference between chamois and flannel is that chamois is thicker and softer than flannel. In addition, chamois is more absorbent than flannel.
Reference:
1. “Chamois Cloth Fabric.” Old Bull Lee
2. “Flannel.” The Fabric of Our Lives.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Chamois-natural” By Johan – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Flannels 5” By Louis Beche – (CC BY 2.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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