fabric structure

The way the threads of the material are put together during weaving.

selvage

The finished border of a piece of fabric, woven more tightly than the piece it borders and parallel to the lengthwise grain.

lengthwise grain

Evenly spaced parallel threads arranged lengthwise along the fabric.

crosswise grain

The threads that are passed through the lengthwise grain from one selvage to another; it is the width of the fabric.

bias

Direction of a fabric; it is diagonal to the crosswise grain and the lengthwise grain.

underlying fabrics

Fabrics used to hold the shape of a garment and give it a professional finish.

lining

Soft fabric cut from the same pattern as the garment inside which it is sewn; it gives body to the garment, embellishes it, hides its seams and makes it warmer.

interlining

Fabric used to make a garment warmer.

underlining

Fabric used to hold the shape of the garment and make it more opaque.

interfacing

Tear-resistant fabric used to hold the shape of the garment and give it body.

garment fabric

Principal material used for the garment; it covers the underlying fabrics.