As well as the many colours available to a fabric designer there are also many ways of weaving a fabric to create different effects. Here's a quick description of each.

Houndstooth

Also referred to as "Dog-tooth" or "Gun-check", Houndstoth fabric has it's origins in woolen cloths orginating from the Scottish lowlands. Houndstooth refers to a distinctive two-tone pattern characterised by broken checks or abstract four pointed shapes.

Herringbone

Herringbone derives it's name from the fact that it looks like the skeleton of a herring fish. Herringbone refers to a distinctive weaving pattern that creates a chevron or V shaped pattern down the length of the fabric.

 




Oxford

One of the most popular fabrics used in shirting today, Oxfords resemble a subtle basketweave pattern and have a lustrous finish. Variations on the traditional Oxford include the Pinpoint Oxford, Royal Oxford and French Oxford, all with fine white yarns introduced into the weave to add contrast.

Jacquard

Joseph Marie Jacquard invented the Jacquard loom in 1801, capable of weaving complex and intricate patterns. As a result, Jacquards come in all shapes and sizes.

Twill

Twill is a weaving method that can be identified by its diagonal lines, also known as ribs. Depending on the weave, the diagonal lines may be more or less noticable. Twills are known for their soft, pliable nature and therefore drape better. Denim is a twill.

End on End

End on end is similar in weave and appearance to a pinpoint oxford. Suited to solid colours, different coloured warp and weft yarns are woven together in a simple basket pattern to create a solid yet slightly irregualr effect.