Weaves & fabric constructions
Weft yarn
Also known as: Weft, Filling, Woof, Pick
Yarn inserted transversely through the warp shed; combined with the warp it forms the woven fabric.
Description
The weft (also filling, woof, pick) is inserted transversely through the open warp shed and beaten up against the fell of the cloth by the reed. Insertion has evolved from the classic shuttle to modern rapier, projectile, air-jet and water-jet looms.
Unlike the warp, the weft carries very little tension, so softer, less strong or effect yarns (slub, boucle, novelty) can be used. Weft density (picks per cm) plus warp density defines the thread count and drape of the fabric.
- In denim a white weft crosses the indigo-dyed warp
- In chambray warp and weft colours alternate
- Weft direction = crosswise grain; matters for cutting
Properties
| Direction | Crosswise to the warp |
|---|---|
| Insertion system | Shuttle, rapier, projectile, air/water jet |
| Tension | Low |
| Yarn choice | Soft or novelty yarns possible |
| Density unit | Picks per cm (e.g. 40/cm) |
Related product categories
Sources & references
1- Wikipedia: Warp and weft Wikipedia — Freie Enzyklopädie https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warp_and_weft
