Yarn size
The fundamental measure for quality shirting fabrics is based on the diameter of the thread and not the number of threads per inch.

The measure is determined by the calculating the number of hanks (840 yrds) per pound of thread. There are a number of different ways to express the size of the thread, including

yarn size,

yarn count,

yarn number and

cotton count. the higher the number, the finer the fabric.

Thread count is only one factor. The type and density of weave also play a major role in how the shirt feels.
Generally the higher the count

 

• the more silky the fabric feels
• the harder it is to iron
• the easier it is for the shirt to become wrinkled
• the more careful you need to be in maintaining the shirt e.g. washing on a ‘delicate’ cycle
• The better it feels against your skin

 

Ply
Shirts come in either one ply or two-ply constructions, which means that it is either made from one strand or two strands of cotton twisted together. Because two-ply cotton is a stronger and more flexible fabric, good shirting is usually two-ply. By altering the number of twists and the tension between the strands high-end shirting manufacturers are able to create luxurious fabrics.

 

Weave
The style of the weave plays an important role in not only how the shirt looks but also how it feels against the skin. Not only can the density of the weave be changed but also the way threads interact with each other to give the fabric different texture, feel and look. Below are descriptions of some of the more common styles.

 

Broadcloth
a tightly woven plain fabric that offers a smooth lustrous texture and is ideal for the classic business shirt.

Broadcloth and Poplin are essentially the same type of fabric.

Broadcloth is a very lightweight, smooth, flat looking fabric, with no pattern in the weave of the threads. It is similar in quality to pinpoint fabric, but has less texture.

 

Oxford
Is a weave that offers a highly durable shirt with a texture that is ideally suited to today’s busy environments. Sometimes referred to as a basket weave, shirts made from this material are ideal for both casual and business shirts.

 

Pinpoint Oxford
Pinpoint (also referred to as pinpoint oxford) very similar to oxford but with a finer weave giving a slightly more elegant look. it uses a finer yarn and tighter weave. It is more formal than oxford cloth, but less formal than broadcloth or twill. … Because of their heavier construction, pinpoints are fairly durable fabrics.

Royal Oxford
Another variant of the oxford weave but with a slightly more pronounced pattern and is ideal for evenings or formal events.

Pique
a heavily textured fabric that can be used for more elaborate evening shirts.

 

End to End
This weave gives a delicate change in colour tone by weaving threads of different colours together, usually with one dominant colour. A great fabric for when you want to create a shirt with a little more character.

 

Twill
Consists of continuous diagonal lines that enhance the depth of the colour. This style of fabric is commonly seen in business shirts.

 

Herringbone
A very similar weave to twill but the diagonal lines reversed to give a distinctive symmetrical pattern.

 

Dobby / Jacquard
 intricate patterns in the fabric itself.

 

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Flannel is a soft woven fabric, of various fineness.

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Plaid is a pattern created by bars and stripes of color that cross at right angles, or a piece of fabric with this pattern on it. An example of plaid is Scottish tartan.