Cotton is everywhere—from your favorite t-shirt to your go-to summer dress. But what makes it so popular, and how do you choose the right type? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about cotton fabric: how it’s made, the different types available, and what to consider when buying for your next sewing or fashion project. Whether you're shopping for soft cotton fabric for dresses or the best types of cotton fabric for shirts, this article has you covered.
What Is Cotton Fabric?
Cotton is one of the most widely used natural fibers in the world. It comes from the soft, fluffy fibers of the cotton plant and is spun into yarn to create breathable, soft, and durable fabric. Cotton is used in everything from basic t-shirts and jeans to dresses, blouses, and undergarments.
Cotton is a natural fiber known for its breathability and softness, making it ideal for everyday wear. It is biodegradable and renewable, making it a more sustainable option compared to many synthetic fabrics.
Types of Cotton Fabric
Cotton fabric comes in a variety of types, each with its own texture, weight, and weave. Common types of cotton fabrics include:
- Poplin – crisp and smooth, great for shirts
- Jersey – soft and stretchy, perfect for t-shirts
- Twill – durable with a diagonal weave, often used for pants
- Double Gauze – soft, crinkly texture, great for baby clothes and relaxed tops
- Pointelle – delicate knit with tiny eyelets, often used in layering pieces and kidswear
- French Terry – smooth on one side, looped on the other, used in casual wear like sweatshirts
- Waffle – textured like a honeycomb, commonly used in loungewear and robes
- Canvas – heavyweight and durable, perfect for jackets, bags, and structured garments
Cotton by Staple Length
Cotton is also categorized by the length of its fibers:
- Short staple cotton – shorter fibers, more prone to pilling, but still widely used in everyday fabrics
- Long staple cotton – longer, stronger, and smoother fibers, more resistant to fraying and pilling
Premium Cotton Types
- Pima Cotton – a high-quality long-staple cotton known for its softness and durability
- Supima® Cotton – an even finer version of Pima, grown in the USA and trademarked for premium use
- Organic Cotton – grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides, making it a more eco-friendly option
How Is Cotton Fabric Made?
Cotton production begins with harvesting the cotton bolls from the cotton plant. The fibers are then separated from seeds, cleaned, and spun into yarn. This yarn is woven or knitted into various fabric types depending on its intended use. The production process is relatively natural compared to synthetic fibers, although environmental impact varies depending on farming practices and water usage.
Benefits of Cotton Fabric
- Breathable and lightweight
- Soft and gentle on skin
- Durable and long-lasting
- Absorbs moisture well
- Easy to dye and care for
- Naturally hypoallergenic
What Is Cotton Fabric Used For?
Cotton is used in a huge range of clothing items, such as:
- T-shirts and tank tops
- Button-up shirts and blouses
- Dresses and skirts
- Pajamas and loungewear
- Baby clothes and children’s wear
- Casual pants and shorts
Soft cotton fabric for dresses and types of cotton fabric for shirts are especially popular choices due to comfort, breathability, and wearability.
Cotton vs Other Fabrics: Simple Comparison
| Feature | Cotton Fabric | Polyester Fabric | Linen Fabric | Modal Fabric |
| Source | Natural (plant-based) | Synthetic (petroleum-based) | Natural (flax plant) | Semi-synthetic (beechwood) |
| Breathability | High | Low | High | High |
| Softness | Soft | Varies | Textured | Silky smooth |
| Sustainability | Renewable and biodegradable | Not biodegradable | Renewable and biodegradable | Biodegradable |
| Moisture Absorption | High | Low | Very High | High |
| Use Case | Everyday wear | Activewear, outerwear | Summer wear | Loungewear, innerwear |
How to Care for Cotton Fabric
- Wash in cold or warm water
- Tumble dry on low or air dry
- Iron on medium-high heat if needed
- Pre-wash before sewing to avoid shrinkage
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Cotton is easy to care for but may shrink slightly if exposed to high heat.
Where to Buy Cotton Fabric & Buying Tips for Cotton Fabrics
Whether you're a sewist or fashion brand, consider the following tips:
- Know your fabric type – poplin, jersey, twill, etc.
- Choose high-staple cottons like Pima or Supima® for premium garments
- Pre-wash and test for shrinkage before cutting
- Look for organic cotton if sustainability matters to your brand
Cotton fabrics are widely available both in local fabric stores and online. At Yardblox, we offer swatches and flexible minimums for small brands and independent makers.
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Why Choose Yardblox Fabrics for Cotton Fabric?
Yardblox Fabrics curates a diverse selection of types of cotton fabrics for all kinds of apparel projects. Whether you’re making soft cotton fabric for dresses or tailored shirts, we carry options ranging from organic cotton to premium Supima® blends.With over 100 suppliers in our network and a dedication to quality, we make sourcing easy—whether you're an established brand or just getting started.Looking for help choosing between fabric types or need swatches before you commit? Our team is here to help.
Want to explore our cotton collection or request swatches? Visit Yardblox Fabrics today.
