Denim and twill are closely related because denim is a specific type of twill fabric. Both share a common weave pattern, with diagonal parallel ribs that add strength and durability to the fabric.
The key difference between denim and twill is their nature. Twill is a specific weave with a diagonal parallel rib pattern, whereas denim is a strong cotton twill fabric.
CONTENTS
1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is Twill
3. What is Denim
4. Similarities – Denim and Twill
5. Denim vs Twill in Tabular Form
6. Summary – Denim vs Twill
7. FAQ – Denim and Twill
What is Twill?
Twill is a textile weave with a diagonal parallel rib pattern. In fact, it’s one of the three fundamental weaves, along with plain weave and satin. The most common fibers used for twill are cotton and polyester or a blend of the two. In twill weaving, the weft thread (horizontal) is woven over and under one or more warp threads (vertical) in a repeating pattern, which creates characteristic diagonal lines. This also makes twill fabrics drape well.
Twill fabrics usually have a darker front side (the wale) and a lighter back. They also have a high thread count, which makes them opaque, thick, and durable. Twill is not often printed on, but some create designs such as tweed and houndstooth using multiple colored yarns.
Twill is a durable and versatile fabric commonly used in various applications. One of its most popular uses is for denim, as jeans are typically made from cotton or a cotton blend using a twill weave. Cotton twill fabric also creates chinos and khaki pants, which are lighter in weight compared to jeans. The durability of twill makes it ideal for outdoor and industrial work clothing like overalls and jumpsuits. It is also a preferred choice for upholstery fabrics in furniture and home decor items such as sofas, chairs, cushions, and curtains, as well as for bed and bath linens.
What is Denim?
Denim is a strong cotton twill fabric typically woven with indigo, gray, or mottled white yarn. It is one of the most iconic and widely used fabrics, featuring classic blue jeans, jackets, dresses, overalls, and more. The term “denim” originates from the French phrase serge de Nîmes, referring to a specific type of fabric from Nîmes, France.
Denim comes in various colors, but indigo denim is the most common, with the warp thread dyed blue and the weft thread left white. This warp-faced twill weave gives the fabric its distinctive blue front side and white backside, as seen in jeans, which are predominantly white on the inside. Denim is used to create a range of garments, accessories, and furniture.
Similarities Between Denim and Twill
- Both denim and twill fabrics use a twill weave pattern, which creates diagonal parallel ribs on the fabric.
- Denim and twill fabrics often have a high thread count, which gives them their opacity and dense texture.
- Both fabrics can retain dyes well.
Difference Between Denim and Twill
Definition
- Twill is a specific weaving pattern that creates diagonal lines in the fabric.
- Denim is a type of twill fabric made mainly from cotton or a cotton blend.
Nature
- Twill can vary in weight and texture, depending on the type and intended use.
- Denim tends to be heavier and more rigid compared to other twill fabrics.
Materials
- Twill can be made from various materials like cotton, wool, silk, or synthetic fibers like polyester.
- Denim is almost always made from cotton, often with indigo dye.
Uses
- Denim is most often used for clothing like jeans, jackets, and overalls because of its sturdiness.
- Twill is versatile and can be used for clothing like chinos, khakis, and skirts, as well as for upholstery, bath linen, and home decor.
Appearance
- Twill can come in various colors and patterns.
- Denim has a distinct look, with a blue front side and a white back side due to the dyeing process.
The following table summarizes the difference between denim and twill.
Summary – Denim vs Twill
Denim is a specific type of twill fabric typically made from cotton or a cotton blend, known for its strength and distinct blue-and-white color contrast. Twill, on the other hand, refers to a broader category of fabrics with diagonal lines in the weave and can be made from various fibers like cotton, wool, or polyester. Denim is most commonly used for jeans and other rugged clothing, while twill is used in a wide range of applications, from clothing to upholstery. This is the summary of the difference between denim and twill.
FAQ: Denim and Twill
1. Is denim the same as twill?
- Denim and twill are not the same. Denim is a fabric that is made using the twill weave, which has a diagonal parallel rib pattern. Twill weave is also seen in fabrics like chinos and khakis.
2. What is the difference between a twill jacket and a denim jacket?
- Denim jackets are heavier and stiffer due to the thicker cotton twill. They also have a rugged look. Twill jackets, on the other hand, can be lighter and softer depending on the material.
3. What is the difference between twill and normal fabric?
- Twill is a type of fabric weave that creates diagonal lines or ribs, which gives the fabric durability and strength. Normal fabric, or plain weave, has a simple crisscross pattern that is more common and results in a smoother texture.
4. Is denim a twill fabric?
- Yes, denim can be described as a twill fabric because it has a twill weave, which has a diagonal parallel rib pattern. It also has indigo-dyed warp threads and white weft threads, which gives it a unique look.
5. Is denim cotton or polyester?
- Denim is typically made from cotton or a cotton blend. However, modern denim may include a blend of cotton and synthetic fibers like polyester to add stretch and durability to the fabric.
Reference:
1. “What Is Twill Fabric? Definition and Characteristics of the Popular Twill Weave.” Master Class.
2. “What is Denim Fabric: Properties, How its Made and Where?” Sew Port.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Blue Denim Textile” (CC0) via PicPick
2. “Twill Weave #2” By Filter Forge (CC BY 2.0 DEED) via Flickr
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