Fabric Glossary: Terms Starting with E

Edge Roll

Edge roll refers to the curling or rolling that occurs along the edges of fabric or knits, causing the material to not lie flat. This phenomenon can make handling, cutting, and sewing more challenging.

Egyptian Cotton

Egyptian cotton is a fine, soft, and luxurious cotton fabric renowned for its exceptional durability and breathability. It is hand-picked from the cotton plant species Gossypium barbadense, which produces extra-long staple fibers. These longer fibers allow for the creation of very fine, strong threads, resulting in a superior-quality fabric. Egyptian cotton is widely regarded as the pinnacle of luxury, especially for bed sheets and linens. However, consumers should be aware that labeling in the linens and bedding industry can be misleading. Products labeled as "Egyptian cotton" may not always be made from the true Gossypium barbadense species; any cotton grown in Egypt can carry the label regardless of fiber quality. Pima cotton, a closely related variety, shares many characteristics with Egyptian cotton but is grown primarily in the United States.

Elastane

Elastane is the generic or European term for a type of polyurethane fabric commonly known as spandex. It is renowned for its exceptional stretch and recovery properties.

Elastic

Elastic refers to a tape, strand, thread, cord, or fabric that exhibits stretchiness, springiness, and the ability to recover its original shape after being stretched. Elastic materials are typically made from rubber or spandex cores wrapped in fibers such as polyester, nylon, or cotton. Elastic is a common sewing notion primarily used in apparel and accessories to provide flexibility and fit.

Elasticity

Elasticity is the inherent ability of fabric fibers to return to their original shape and length after being stretched or subjected to tension.

Elongation

Elongation is the measure of how much a fiber or fabric can increase in length when stretched. It is expressed as a percentage of the original length.

Embossing

Embossing is a decorative surface treatment applied to fabric. It is achieved by passing the fabric through engraved rollers or stamps under heat and pressure, which imprint raised patterns or designs onto the fabric’s surface.

Embroidery

Embroidery is the art of decorating fabric or other materials using needlework with thread or yarn. It can involve creating motifs or intricate all-over designs. Embroidery may also incorporate embellishments such as beads and sequins made from plastic or glass to enhance the decorative effect.

Eyelet

Eyelet is a type of embroidery characterized by small, regularly spaced holes or “eyes” created within the fabric as part of a decorative pattern. This technique often features an all-over design made with thread to form the eyelet shapes.