Ottoman

A sturdy comfortable ribbed fabric

When people talk about ribbed fabrics, corduroy is often the first that comes to mind. However, this is by no means the only one characterized by a ribbed surface. Ottoman, for example, is a ribbed fabric that has an interesting look and is quite strong. The ribs are created by using thicker yarns for the weft than for the warp. This results in raised ridges across the width of the material that are characteristic of the knit. It can be woven, but we also sell ottoman jersey in our online shop. This is knitted on the same machines that produce other knits such as jersey and French terry.

Originally, ottoman was mainly used as upholstery fabric. This is mainly due to the fact that it is very hard-wearing because of its ribbed surface. Today, furniture is still regularly covered in ottoman. In addition, it is popular for making thick, heavy curtains. But that is by no means the only thing for which the material is suitable. It is also excellent for clothing. Because it is fairly heavy, it is best suited to warmer clothing. Ottoman is ideal for blazers, pants, and winter dresses. It is also an excellent cloth for making bags.

The exact composition of ottoman has changed over the years. Traditionally, it was made of silk. However, silk was very expensive, so fabric manufacturers eventually looked for more affordable alternatives. That's why the ottoman in our range is made of cotton with a small amount of elastane. The elastane fibers make the fabric stretch more readily than it would naturally. This is precisely why ottoman jersey is so suitable for clothing. The material stretches easily during activity and is therefore very comfortable.

Development of ottoman as clothing fabric

An article called ottoman almost always has its origins in the Ottoman Empire, modern-day Turkey. For example, the footstool is also called an "ottoman" in English because Europeans discovered this piece of furniture in Turkish households. Today, footstools are still often upholstered in ottoman fabric. The weaving technique originally came from Turkish weaving art. At the time, complex patterns were woven into the fabric, but they can be optional. The right side of the material feels soft and slightly velvety. This is the side that faces outwards in clothing, upholstery, and items of home decor.

As a clothing fabric, ottoman has had rather a formal appearance traditionally. This is partly due to the fact that it was originally made of silk or a blend of cotton and silk. For the common people, the material was unaffordable. However, the fabric’s reputation was shaped by the clothing first made from it in the West. This often involved luxurious evening wear, academic robes, and clothing for high-status professions. In the United Kingdom, for example, many legal robes were made from ottoman. The material was particularly popular with high-ranking lawyers.

Today, it is possible to make fabrics with the same characteristic ribbed surface from less expensive materials. As a result, more and more casual clothing made from ottoman has been seen in recent decades. Those planning to make clothing from the textile no longer have to limit themselves to luxury robes. It is not a difficult fabric to work with, and as a result, many shirts, dresses, pants, blazers, and accessories are made now from this robust material. In addition, it is still widely used for upholstery.

Making Clothing from Ottoman

We strongly recommend washing ottoman jersey before making clothing from it. This is because it consists mainly of cotton fibres, which can shrink during the first wash. However, due to the Spandex fibres, the material cannot be washed in water that is too hot. The fibers can deform if exposed to high temperatures. Wash the fabric at a maximum of 30 degrees and let it air dry, rather than put it in the dryer. Ironing can be done at a low temperature if necessary, but ottoman generally does not crease easily.

Because knit fabrics have some stretch, it is advisable to sew ottoman with a stretch or a jersey needle. These have a rounder tip than universal needles. Normally, a thickness of 80-90 is sufficient for sewing ribbed knits. Sew the fabric with a light zigzag stitch so that the thread can give a little and not snap under tension. We also recommend putting an anti-slip mat or rough piece of fabric under the pattern pieces so that they do not slide. Do not pull the material too hard and guide it gently through the sewing machine. Ottoman barely frays, so the edges do not necessarily need to be finished.

Buying Ottoman Online

Ottoman is a fabric with a long history, but the fashion world still makes grateful use of it. The versatility of the material undoubtedly contributes to this. Whether you want to use it for upholstery, making chic clothing, or something with a more casual look, ottoman suits it all. You can easily buy this and many other beautiful high-quality fabrics online from the Quality Textiles webshop.