A smooth, lustrous fabric, satin is a classic staple in fashion and interior decorating. It’s a favorite for evening gowns and wedding dresses, as well as shirts, corsets, inner linings, hats and ties, and even furniture upholstery.
Although the word satin is associated with silk, it can be made from other fibers such as cotton, wool and polyester. It is woven in a specific fabric weave called satin weave, which gives it its smooth, shiny texture on the front side of the fabric. The weave is constructed by floating warp yarns across the weft before passing them underneath one weft thread. This type of weave allows for fewer interlaces which creates the satin’s soft, smooth, luxurious feel.
Satin can be found in a variety of colors and materials, ranging from delicate silks to more durable polyesters and nylons. Despite the differences, all satins are incredibly soft and flexible, allowing them to mold to your body’s curves while providing support. It’s also a breathable material which means it can be worn comfortably during hot weather.
The most common satins available in stores are antique, baronet and crepe back satin. All of these have a satin sheen on the front and a matte or crepe finish on the back. Antique is heavy satin that has a dull luster and is woven with uneven (slubbed) yarns, while Baronet is the most lustrous satin weave and can be found in bright colors. Crepe back satin is a reversible fabric that has a satin sheen on both sides and can be used in any application.