Fabric 101: Bouclè
Bouclé is a distinctive type of fabric that is known for its unique curled and looped yarns, which give it a nubby texture you can feel and see. It receives its name because it is made from a type of chunky yarn that is also called bouclé.
Traditionally it was made from wool or wool blends, but bouclé isn’t just limited to one material anymore. Nowadays, you’ll find it in various fibers like cotton and synthetics, offering a wide range of textures and weights suitable for different seasons and reasons.
When you’re considering a fabric like bouclé, picture something like cozy sweaters – the sort of clothing that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day. Bouclé’s versatility doesn’t stop at your wardrobe though. It’s also a favorite in the world of interior design, bringing a cozy sophistication to upholstery and drapery.
Fabric | Bouclè |
Texture? | Fuzzy and plush, with a chunky yarn texture |
Stretch? | Knit bouclè fabric will stretch, while woven bouclè will not |
Weight? | Heavyweight (typically 250+ GSM) |
Stiff or flowy drape? | It depends on the fabric, but usually a moderate drape in-betwen stiff and flowy |
Nap? | It is not a napped fabric |
Typical fiber content? | Usually, wool and synthetic fibers |
Opaque or sheer? | Typically opaque, but the weave may leave gaps in the fabric, especially knit bouclè |
Shiny? | Boucle is a matte fabric |
Fraying? | Woven bouclè is prone to fraying quite a lot |
Pilling? | Not prone to pilling, but it can snag fairly easily |
Other identifying properties? | Boucle is named because it’s made from chunky bouclè yarn that is visible in the weave of the fabric. |
Cool or warm weather? | Generally better for colder weather |
What to make? | Sweaters, coats and outerwear, upholstery, winter suits, skirts, and dresses |
What needle to use? | Use a universal needle for woven bouclè and a jersey needle for knit bouclè. |

What kind of fabric is bouclè?
Bouclé is a distinctive type of fabric that is known for its unique, looped or curled yarns which provide a bumpy, textured surface. This texture results from the way bouclé yarns are produced, combining lengths of loops with varying tensions. Bouclé can be a woven or a knitted fabric as long as it is made from the chunky bouclè yarns.



What can you make with bouclè fabric?
In apparel, you’ll often find bouclé used in elegant jackets, dresses, and skirts. Its rich texture makes it a popular choice for upholstery and other home decor as well.
Additionally, bouclé yarns serve well in making textured knitted fabrics, which can be fashioned into a variety of items, from hats and scarves to blankets and sweaters.

Properties of bouclè fabric
- Texture: Bouclé fabric is known for its thick plush texture. However, it can be a bit rough or itchy, depending on the fibers used.
- Stretch: Woven bouclè fabric will have pretty much no stretch or give to them. However, knit bouclè fabrics generally have a moderate amount of stretch across the width of the fabric.
- Weight: Bouclé fabric can vary in weight. However, most will be heavy weight fabrics with some on the more medium-weight end of the scale.
- Drape: Woven bouclè material tends to be quite stiff and structured since it has a tight weave. Knit bouclè fabric, on the other hand, tends to be a bit more flowy with a heavy drape.
- Fiber composition: Traditionally, it is made from wool, but it can also be made from cotton, or synthetic fibers like polyester, or a blend of these materials.
- Opacity: While most bouclé material will be completely opaque, there are also bouclé fabrics that are made with design elements that include holes in the fabric, or have a much looser construction that takes away from the opacity of the material.
- Shine: Bouclé fabric is not shiny; it is better known for its textured, looped appearance which provides a soft, matte look.
- Fraying: Woven bouclé fabric tends to fray a lot. I recommend using techniques that prevent or minimize fraying when working with bouclé. Knit bouclè does not have the same problem due to the knitted structure.
- Durability: Boucle fabric is prone to snagging due to its looped yarns which can get caught and pull. High-quality bouclè is less susceptible; however, it’s still something to keep in mind concern. Bouclé is typically not the best choice for anything that needs to withstand a lot of wear and tear.
- Wrinkling: Bouclé fabric is generally resistant to wrinkles. The intricate loops and curls in the fabric help to disguise creases.
- Breathability: Most bouclé is naturally insulating and warm, making it better for winter clothing. On the other hand, bouclé made from lighter and more breathable fibers like cotton can be comfortable in warmer weather if the fabric is sufficiently thin.






