Corduroy is a durable fabric that has been around for centuries. It is made by weaving cotton, silk, or wool fibers together and then cut into strips to form a ribbed texture. One of the key characteristics of corduroy is the wale, which refers to the ridges between the rows of piled yarn that give corduroy its distinct texture.
For many, the term “wale” can be confusing, especially when it comes to corduroy. What does it mean exactly? How many wales are there in a corduroy fabric? In this article, we will explore the meaning of wale in corduroy, its history, and its various uses. Whether you’re an enthusiast of fashion or just curious about this fabric, this article will give you a comprehensive understanding of corduroy and its wales.
The History of Corduroy Fabric
Corduroy fabric has been around for centuries, with its history dating back to the ancient Egyptians. It gained popularity in Europe during the 18th century and was often used for trousers worn by country gentlemen. In the 19th century, corduroy became a fashionable fabric for women’s clothing as well.
Corduroy is distinguished by its ribbed texture, which is created by weaving in extra sets of yarn. The name “corduroy” is thought to come from the French corde du roi, meaning “the cord of the king,” possibly because it was used for clothing worn by nobility. Corduroy fabric is versatile and can be made from many different fibers, including cotton, wool, and synthetic blends. Today, it remains a popular choice for clothing and accessories like jackets, pants, and bags.
The Origins of the Word Wale
The word wale has its origins in Old English and Middle English, where it was used to describe a raised line or ridge on a material. This could have referred to any type of fabric such as wool, cotton, or silk. However, the term wale began to be specifically associated with corduroy in the early 19th century.
Corduroy itself comes from the French word ‘corde du roi’ which translates to ‘the cord of the king’. This term referred to the strong, durable fabric that was used to create clothing for the working class in the 18th century. Since then, the word wale has become synonymous with corduroy and is now commonly used to describe the vertical ridges that are characteristic of the fabric.
Different Types of Wale in Corduroy
Corduroy is a thick, durable fabric composed of twisted fibers that form ridges or wales along its surface. These wales are created by weaving parallel cords onto the fabric, which can vary in width and depth to change the overall look and feel of the corduroy.
Different types of wale in corduroy can be identified by the width, depth, and spacing of the cords. Wide-wale corduroy features thick cords that are spaced widely apart, creating a smooth, soft texture that is often used for trousers and jackets. Medium-wale corduroy has slightly narrower cords that are closer together, creating a more textured, rugged look that is ideal for heavier coats and upholstery. Finally, narrow-wale corduroy features thin cords that are tightly spaced, creating a dense, velvety texture that is used for delicate clothing and furnishings. By understanding the different types of wale in corduroy, you can choose the perfect fabric for your needs and create a stunning, unique design that is sure to stand out.
Factors Influencing the Size and Width of Wales
Factors Influencing the Size and Width of Wale in Corduroy
The size and width of wale in corduroy are influenced by several factors. The first and most important factor is the density of the corduroy pile. The denser the pile of the fabric, the narrower the wale will be. This is because the pile pushes together and compresses the wale, resulting in a narrower size. On the other hand, a looser pile will result in a wider wale.
Another factor that influences the size and width of wale is the width of the corduroy fabric. Generally, corduroy fabrics come in two categories, wide-wale and narrow-wale, and the width of the fabric determines the size of the wale. Wide-wale corduroy, which is usually around 3-4 wale per inch, will result in a larger size and width of wale. In contrast, narrow-wale corduroys, which are around 14-20 wale per inch, will result in a smaller size and width of wale. These factors play a significant role in determining the size and width of wale in corduroy fabrics.
How to Identify the Wale of Corduroy Fabric
The wale of corduroy fabric refers to the number of ridges or lines visible on the fabric’s surface. The term wale comes from the Gaelic word “wal,” which means a raised line or streak. The wales can be small or large, and they are used to classify corduroy fabrics into different categories. The wale can impact the texture, durability, and overall appearance of the fabric.
To identify the wale of corduroy fabric, you need to look for the raised ridges on the surface of the fabric. The wale is a measured number of ridges per inch, which is known as the wale count. The higher the wale count, the finer and softer the corduroy will be. On the other hand, a lower wale count means the fabric will be thicker and more durable. You can also identify the wale direction by running your hand over the fabric – the direction where the fabric feels smooth is the wale direction. By understanding the wale of corduroy fabric, you can choose the perfect fabric for your project, whether it’s a soft and silky corduroy for a dress or a durable corduroy for pants or jackets.
The Influence of Wales on Corduroy Clothing
Corduroy clothing has been greatly influenced by wales. The thickness of the wales determines the overall durability and warmth of the corduroy fabric. Wider wales create a heavier, warmer fabric, while narrower wales result in a lighter fabric that is ideal for warmer weather clothing. The width of the wales can also affect the appearance of the corduroy clothing, with wider wales providing a more rustic, casual look, and narrower wales giving a sleeker, more formal appearance.
Different wale patterns have also been incorporated into corduroy clothing. The most common wale patterns are the traditional cord pattern, which features narrow wales that run parallel to each other, and the pin cord pattern, which has narrower and spaced-out wales. More unique patterns, such as herringbone, chevron, and diamond, have also been introduced in corduroy clothing. These patterns are not only aesthetically pleasing but also add depth and texture to the fabric. The influence of wales on corduroy clothing is both functional and stylish, making it an essential part of any fashion wardrobe.
Popular Uses of Wale Corduroy in Fashion and Home Decor.
Wale corduroy has long been a popular choice for fashion and home decor. The thick, durable fabric offers both comfort and style, and can be found in a wide range of colors and patterns to suit any taste. In terms of fashion, wale corduroy is often used to create jackets, pants, and skirts, as well as accessories like hats and bags.
In home decor, wale corduroy is often used for upholstery and throw pillows, adding texture and warmth to any room. Many people also use wale corduroy curtains and drapes to create a cozy, inviting environment. And with its versatility and durability, wale corduroy is sure to remain a popular choice for both fashion and home decor for years to come.
Final Words
In conclusion, the term “wale” in corduroy refers to the raised ridges or lines on the fabric. Wale size is determined by the number of ridges in a given area, known as wale density. The thickness and type of yarn used to make corduroy can also affect the appearance and durability of the fabric.
Although corduroy was once associated with workwear and school uniforms, it has become a popular fashion choice. Today, corduroy comes in a variety of colors and styles, from classic neutral hues to bold prints. Whether you prefer a classic look or a trendy twist, corduroy’s versatile texture and durability make it a timeless wardrobe staple.