Fabric 101: Flocked
Flocked fabric is made using a process where tiny fibers, called flock, are adhered to a textile (usually a woven fabric, but knit fabrics can be flocked too). It creates a raised, fuzzy area on the material.

What is flocked fabric?
Flocked fabric is a type of textile that has a pattern or design created by applying small fiber particles to its surface. This process creates a pattern or design that has a velvety, soft feel. The flocking process involves adding these short monofilament fibers to a fabric using some sort of adhesive (they are not woven into the fabric).
The application of flock involves several steps:
First, the base fabric is prepared to ensure it is free from impurities. An adhesive is applied to the surface in the desired pattern. Then the flock fibers are then applied, usually via an electrostatic charge which orients the fibers and binds them to the adhesive. Finally, the adhesive is cured, setting the fibers firmly in place so they won’t easily fall off as you’re sewing with the fabric.

Flocked fabric vs. burnout fabric
Flocked fabric and burnout fabric can end up looking somewhat similar, but they are made using pretty much opposite processes. Flocked fabrics add fibers to the surface of materials, while burnout fabrics take away fibers from the material.
Flocked fabric involves adhering short fibers to a fabric substrate, creating a texture that is reminiscent of velvet and adds a layer of dimension and softness to the material.
Burnout fabric involves a process where a material undergoes a chemical treatment to dissolve certain fibers and create a semi-transparent pattern. Since burnout treatments are often applied to velvet fabrics, the resulting look of the fabric can look similar to flocked material.
What is flocked fabric used for?
Flocked fabric is commonly used for home decor, including upholstery and drapery. It’s also frequently used in a variety of fashion fabrics for apparel, though it’s more often used for high-end garments. Accessories, such as gloves and scarves can also utilize flocked fabric.

Characteristics of flocked fabric
Is flocked fabric typically opaque?
The base fabric can vary in opacity, but the flocking with always be opaque due to the density of the fibers used.

What types of fiber is flocked fabric made with?
Most commonly, flocking will be made with synthetic fibers such as nylon, rayon, or polyester. The choice of fiber depends on the desired texture, appearance, and end use of the fabric. Nylon and polyester are common for their durability and resilience, while rayon is chosen for its more natural feel.
The fibers used for the flocked design do not have to match the fiber content of the base fabric. For example, you can have polyester flocked fibers adhered to a cotton base.

How durable is flocked fabric?
The durability of flocked fabric depends on the type of adhesive used, the quality of the flock fibers, and the base fabric. When high-quality adhesives and fibers are applied properly to a suitable base fabric, flocked fabric can be quite durable, resistant to wear and tear, and less likely to fade or fray over time. However, it is important to note that flocked fabrics may require special care, such as hand washing or dry cleaning, to maintain their appearance and texture over time.

What texture is flocked fabric?
Flocked fabric has raised designs that have a distinctive velvety or suede-like texture. The texture of flocked fabric can vary depending on the density of the flocked design, the length of the fibers, and the type of adhesive used.

Does flocked fabric fray or shed over time?
Flocked fabric is generally resistant to fraying because the fibers that make up the flock are so densely adhered to the fabric’s surface. However, some shedding of the flock fibers can occur, especially if the fabric is subjected to heavy use. The quality of the flocking process, including the adhesive and the application technique, plays a significant role in the longevity and resistance to shedding and fraying of the flocked fabric.
Can you iron or steam flocked fabric?
Never place the iron directly on the flocking areas of flocked fabric. I learned the hard way that this is likely to lead to some puckering around the edges of the flocked design, since it melted a little with the heat of the iron. Instead, place a pressing cloth over the flocked area to safeguard it and make sure to use low heat settings.
You can also choose to steam flocked material instead. You still want to be careful around the flocked area, but this is typically a safer method of wrinkle removal when dealing with flocked fabric.
