Jersey fabric: what it is, features and uses of one of the most versatile materials

In the professional world of clothing, furniture and textile handicrafts, identifying the most suitable material for your design needs is crucial. Among the most requested by tailors, upholsterers, designers and fashion buyers, jersey fabric stands out for its versatility and performance. On Manifattura Foderami Cimmino, e-commerce specialized in the supply of fabrics for professional use, is available a wide range of jersey suitable for every need, with variations for clothing, sportswear, homewear and much more. This guide offers a complete overview of the jersey: from its origins to technical characteristics, from the types available to the tips for sewing and choosing it consciously.

What is jersey fabric: technical definition and origin of the material

The jersey fabric is a shaved mesh obtained through a circular or flat weave, which makes it naturally elastic and soft. Originally used for workwear, it has evolved into one of the most popular materials for quality clothing and textiles.

Historical origins of the jersey fabric and first uses in clothing

The jersey takes its name from the British island of the same name, where it was originally used to make work mesh for fishermen. Its spread in the fashion system occurred in the twentieth century, when designers like Coco Chanel seized its potential in terms of draping and comfort.

Differences between jersey and other fabrics for clothing and fashion

Unlike shuttle fabrics such as poplin or canvas, jersey is based on a knitting process, which guarantees elasticity without the addition of elastane. This makes it particularly suitable for tight and dynamic garments, with a “lively” behaviour and a natural fit.

Technical characteristics of the jersey fabric: what to know before buying

Among clothing fabrics, jersey is one of the most appreciated for comfort, versatility and availability of technical and aesthetic variants.

Elasticity, softness and breathability of the jersey: advantages for packaging

The jersey is synonymous with freedom of movement. Its fibers flex following the body, without obstacles. It is soft to the touch, often pleasantly silky, and its open structure allows good breathability, making it ideal for garments intended for prolonged use or in contact with the skin.

Composition of the jersey fabric: cotton, viscose, polyester and elastane

When we talk about jersey fabric we refer to variants available in:

• Cotton: natural, breathable, washable.
• Viscose: soft and glossy, for elegant garments.
• Polyester: more resistant, ideal for technical clothing.
• Mixed: to combine elasticity, resistance and aesthetic performance.

Jersey weights and thicknesses: how to choose the right fabric weight

Weight is a key factor in jersey selection. To calculate the weight of fabrics such as jersey, we start from light weights (120-200 g/m 2) for t-shirts and tops, up to heavy weights (250-3050 g/m 2) suitable for sweatshirts, structured dresses or decorative textile coverings.

Types of jersey fabric: guide to variations for fashion, furniture and crafts

To realize projects of sartorial nature and you can not choose between different variations of jersey, each with unique characteristics.

Simple jersey (single): the basic fabric for light garments

It is the most economical and versatile type, with single mesh, smooth straight side and visibly different reverse. Lightweight, easy to work with, it is perfect for everyday items such as t-shirts, bodysuits and underwear.

Double jersey (interlock): professional features and applications

Double mesh, the interlock is thicker and more stable, with even surface on both sides. It does not curl at the edges and offers a greater hold, making it suitable for structured garments, trousers and home wear.

Felted jersey, jacquard, lurex and Milano stitch: special variations for specific uses

• Felted jersey: warm and soft to the touch, perfect for the cold season.
• Jacquard: with patterns integrated in the weave, also suitable for furnishing.
• Lurex: with metallized yarns for fashion items and scenic details.
• Punto Milano: compact and regular, ideal for skirts and light jackets.

Use of jersey fabric: fashion, sportswear and creative applications

The versatility of jersey makes it a key material in many sectors, from professional fashion to home textiles.

Jersey fabric for clothing: t-shirts, professional dresses and leggings

Jersey is widely used among clothing fabrics for:

• T-shirts and tank tops
• Stretch leggings and trousers
• Modelling women’s clothes
• Underwear and light knitwear

Thanks to its adaptability, it is also a winner for large size lines, maternity clothing and fabrics for children.

Jersey for sportswear and homewear: comfort and technical performance

Its elasticity makes it essential between fabrics for active clothing & streetwear and between fabrics for dance & show:

• Gym and yoga suits
• Breathable technical clothing
• Pyjamas and clothes for relaxation
• Uniforms for leisure and amateur sport

How to sew jersey fabric: techniques, needles and practical tricks

For optimal yield:

• Use specific needles for jersey (ball point)
• Set elastic or zig-zag points
• Prefer the seam cutter for main seams
• Stabilize the edges with thermo-adhesive reinforcements

How to choose the right jersey fabric for your project or professional workshop

Professional purchasing requires a strategic assessment based on the type of packaging or intended use.

Evaluating jersey fabric based on end use: what to consider

For each project, consider:

• The level of elasticity needed
• The behaviour of the fabric after washing
• The final aesthetic appearance (glossy, matt, silk effect, etc.)
• The needs of draping or structure

Certifications and jersey fabric quality: what to ask the supplier

Manufacture Foderami Cimmino selects jersey fabrics with OEKO-TEX® certifications, which guarantee safety and absence of harmful substances. The data sheets indicate composition, weight and performance. In addition, samples can be requested for preliminary tests.

The professional jersey fabric of Manifattura Foderami Cimmino: the ideal choice for every project

The jersey fabric is a technical, economic and stylistic solution of great value for companies and professionals in the textile sector. Its variations in cotton, viscose, mixed and polyester make it suitable for clothing, furniture and craft making.

What are the best jersey fabrics available on the Cimmino shop? Here are their characteristics and possible uses.

Tessuto Felpa Bielastica

Ideal for creating comfortable and high-performance garments, the tessuto Felpa Bielastica combines the natural softness of cotton with the flexibility of elastane, offering comfort and freedom of movement even during the most intense performances.

Thanks to the composition 95% cotton and 5% elastane, it guarantees breathability, elasticity in both directions and shape retention over time. With a weight of 260 g/m2 and a height of 180 cm, it is perfect for dance wear, performance costumes, technical sweatshirts and sports garments. Certified OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, ensures quality and safety even in contact with the skin. Easy to work and resistant to professional washes, it is the ideal choice for those looking for a versatile fabric, technical and aesthetically pleasing.

Maglina Cotone Frida Extra

Maglina Frida Extra is a jersey in cotton and elastane designed for those who seek comfort, elasticity and style in one fabric. Light and not wrinkled, stands out for its high breathability and a snug but comfortable fit, ideal to accompany every movement.

Made of 90% cotton and 10% elastane, with a height of 175 cm and a weight of 200 g/ m 2, it is perfect for the creation of technical t-shirts, leggings, activewear and leisure clothing. The OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification guarantees maximum skin safety, even in the most dynamic environments. Available in a wide range of shades, it is the ideal fabric for those who make active and modern garments.

Maglina Cotone Elide Garzato

Designed to accompany every movement with softness and grip, the maglina Elide Garzato is the ideal fabric for making dance and performance clothing. The brushed surface gives a warm and velvety touch on the skin.

Ideal for cooler seasons or performance in low temperature environments. Made of 92% cotton and 8% elastane, it combines natural breathability and excellent elasticity, offering freedom of movement and a flawless fit. With a height of 180 cm and a weight of 206 g/m 2, it is perfect for creating bodysuits, tops, trousers and technical stage clothing. Certified OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, it guarantees safety and quality even in the most demanding environments.

Tessuto Venice Extra

Tessuto Venice Extra is a versatile and sophisticated solution for the production of formal dresses, stage clothes and technical clothing for dance. Soft to the touch and elastic, it guarantees an impeccable fit and accompanies movements with lightness and fluidity.

Thanks to the composition 92% polyester and 8% elastane, it offers prolonged comfort and maximum freedom of movement, without sacrificing the elegance of the drape. Perfect for making wide skirts, bodysuits and performance leggings, enhances each choreography with dynamism and lightness. With a height of 150 cm and a weight of 190 g/m 2, it is a durable fabric that is easy to work on. Compliance with REACH and the possibility of professional washing make it ideal even for intensive use.

Visit Manifattura Foderami Cimmino to discover our professional selection of jerseys and request customized samples for your tailoring, industrial or decorative projects.

FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions about jersey fabric