The term “Jacquard” means a method of making the fabric using the Jacquard loom: an extraordinary invention that marked the history of textile production at the beginning of the 19th century.
This machine, invented by Joseph-Marie Jacquard, has been so successful because it has simplified and speeded up the production of very complex and elaborate designs. But how does jacquard technique specifically work?
The design, woven directly into the fabric, instead of being printed, is created through the interweaving of two components: the warp, that is, the base, the set of threads arranged parallel lengthwise; the weft, that is the thread that fits several times inside those that form the warp, going to constitute the weave or armor, which would be the actual design, also defined jacquard pattern.
This way you get the jacquard fabric. Let’s discover together history and features of this precious fabric of French origin.
History of the Jacquard Loom
Before 1806, the year in which the breakthrough came, thanks to the inventor Joseph-Marie Jacquard, who decided to patent a machine on which he had been working for years, the looms were operated entirely by hand. In fact, it was necessary to involve more people in the process: in addition to the weaver, there was also a helper.
The weavers’ daughters were usually chosen as helpers: girls who were offered the opportunity to learn the mothers’ craft, observing the patient work of weaving all day long. As the daughters were under their watchful gaze, the weavers took the opportunity to weave a few extra inches of fabric, earning even more. At the time, in fact, women were paid according to the amount of products meticulously made.
The French inventor then came up with the brilliant idea of bringing together in a single machine three processes used in the previous century: the use of needles and a continuous perforated paper containing the drawing; the replacement of the continuous paper with tied cardboard; the placement of a mechanical cylinder above the loom.
However, with the introduction of the Jacquard loom in the factories, the workers were not fully enthusiastic about it, fearing that the new tool would reduce manpower, since there would no longer be a need for helpers to complete the work.
This led to numerous workers’ revolts across Europe and Jacquard was even threatened with death. Fortunately, this did not happen and his invention had a decisive influence on the textile industry, revolutionizing it completely. Making precious fabrics, such as those found in the wide catalogue of Cimmino, with elaborate designs and the utmost attention to detail, is in fact possible thanks to this particular process. In fact, this type of processing lends itself to countless fantasies: geometric, abstract, floral, animalier, camouflage and so on.
In addition, wool and cotton jacquard fabrics can be used in many ways, both in classic clothing and in accessories. Whether it’s a suit, a shirt, trousers, a jacket, a scarf or a tie it doesn’t matter: in tailoring everything is possible!
Jacquard fabrics’ features
Jacquard… what is it, then? A fabric that embodies everything that is regal, rich and sumptuous. An opulent and precious workmanship that consists in interweaving a design or decorative pattern directly into the fabric texture, creating slightly raised effects that highlight the quality of the manufacture.
This technique is used with long fiber yarns, such as cotton, wool and linen. The loom makes it possible to create precise and elaborate designs, making fabrics particularly refined and elegant. Jacquard cotton is generally one of the most used fabrics, but let’s find out together what are the ones that Cimmino recommends, which has always selected the best fabrics for its garments or for the furniture in general.
Raso Opera
The Opera Satin fabric is part of the collection designed by Nazareno Gabrielli consisting of 6 ribs with cavallotto bearing the initials DECORA. Available in red with floral designs and in the framework pattern in grey and ice grey. The ideal fabric for home decor and upholstery.
Fabric Revival
Yarn dyed jacquard fabric available with floral designs coordinated by color. As it is very heavy as a fabric, it can be used for making covering curtains, cushions, bedspreads and interior upholstery.
Satin Poly Jacquard
Elegant satin fabric with jacquard patterns, perfect for padding.
Available in different colours: white, beige, champagne, cream, grey and burgundy.
Jacquard Tivoli New
This fabric is part of Foderami. Lightweight and with a soft hand, embellished with many patterns, the Jacquard Tivoli is perfect for the internal linings of clothing items, such as vests, jackets and coats, but also for lining cans or for various outfits. Many patterns and colors for all tastes.
Discover the magnificence of jacquard fabric on our website: browse the Cimmino catalogue and buy now the best fabrics designed for you!
