Velsoft: what kind of fabric, composition, properties and applications

The variety of all kinds of new materials can sometimes confuse not only the average buyer, but also an experienced sewing master. Among the new fabrics, whose properties and other characteristics have not yet become widely known, is velsoft. Many consumers, seeing a label indicating polyamide content in the composition, immediately refuse the material. Velsoft is in no way inferior in hygiene and ability to retain heat to natural fabrics. Moreover, in many respects it is even better than linen or cotton, even though it is a synthetic material.

Being very light and warm, having unique properties, velsoft, like no other material, is suitable for sewing both children's and adult clothing, blankets and other interior items, hats and home clothes. Products made from this pleasant, fluffy fabric can create a feeling of comfort.

New generation textiles

The material is soft to the touch, but at the same time voluminous. The “soft” in the name also indicates softness. This is exactly the translation of this English word. Outwardly, velsoft resembles thick knitwear, although in terms of its production method it is not related to it. Because of its thick, thin pile it is often called “grass.” Another name assigned to the canvas is microfiber.

The fabric in question should not be confused with ultrasoft. They are similar, but also have significant differences. In ultrasoft, the pile is located only on the front side. The purl side is characterized by smoothness. The villi are short, cut almost to the base. Therefore, the material resembles plush.

What type of fabric is this

Velsoft is a new generation synthetic fabric consisting of 100% polyester threads. “Soft” is translated from English as “soft”. Indeed, this soft fluffy fabric, like no other, is created for the production of home items - cozy and comfortable.

Velsoft shades

It is often called microfiber, but this is not entirely true. Microfiber has a different structure and has a more absorbent surface. In appearance and to the touch, velsoft is a material with thick soft pile, more reminiscent of fleece or velor. In Russia, the largest producers of this fabric are the Ivanovo weaving mills.

Fleece

What is known about fleece fabric? What are its characteristics and properties?

more details

Velours

Review of fleecy velor fabric: from definition and properties to the approximate price of the material

more details

Production technology

For the first time, the miracle canvas was made in Japan. For a long time, development of a new technology was carried out, which was introduced into production in 1976. Its essence lies in the delamination of synthetic threads into several ultra-thin (the diameter of which does not exceed 0.06 mm) fibers. From 8 to 25 microfibers come out of one thread. The resulting fabric is superior to wool, silk, and cotton in lightness. In addition, it retains heat very well, since the fibers are intertwined in a special way, due to which a large number of cavities filled with air are formed between them.

The resulting super-thin thread after delamination is a hundred times thinner than a human hair.

Description

In the 70s of the 20th century, chemists regularly invented and then, one after another, launched into production fabrics based on synthetic fibers. Japan led the way, where microfiber was developed, the basis of most modern polymer-based materials. Microfiber has given birth to many new fabrics that are subtly similar to each other, but, nevertheless, different.

The dense, relatively thick and soft synthetic fabric was called wellsoft (in English, pleasantly soft), and this is not surprising. The fabric turned out to be truly amazingly pleasant to the touch. This was the reason for its success in the market.

Varieties of velsoft

The fabric varies in color and texture. There are several textile options available on the specialized market.

Kinds	Description
Plain painted	Plain fabric, often having neutral shades. Although bright, rich colors can be used for sewing children's products.
Printed	Various designs can be printed on a single-color base.
Jacquard	A characteristic feature is the presence of large patterns. The ornament is formed as a result of a special interweaving of the warp and weft threads. Jacquard is a dense variety. It is used mainly for the production of rugs and blankets. Its density is 230 g/sq.m. meter.
Pressed	Interesting printing technology. The pattern is formed due to the special placement of fibers.
Fur	Reproduces the texture of fur. At the same time, the fabric is flexible: it stretches well, but does not deform. Has high antibacterial properties.

Microfiber baby blankets

Microfiber bedspreads are good for children. These products are soft to the touch and come in a variety of colors. When choosing a blanket for a newborn, it is better to choose pastel shades that do not excite the baby’s nervous system. For an older child, you can buy a brighter blanket with contrasting patterns. Blue shades are usually chosen for boys, and pink for girls. However, colors such as beige, white, gray will be appropriate in the room of a baby of any gender. In addition, the listed shades will fit into any interior.

A children's blanket can have the following sizes:

• 60x90 cm. This product is suitable for a newborn. The blanket can be placed in a crib or stroller;
• 90x120 cm. Suitable for children 1-3 years old;
• 100x140 cm. Bedspreads of this size are ideal for the beds of preschoolers and primary schoolchildren;
• 140x200 cm. A good option for teenagers. If the height is close to an adult, you can choose 160x200 cm.

Tango blanket options

Material characteristics

The popularity of velsoft is explained by its quality characteristics. Among them:

1. Strength: the material comes in different densities, but it is almost impossible to tear it or leave clues on it.
2. Wear resistance: modern fluffy synthetics do not wear out or become shiny. The pile is not prone to creases and retains its original appearance for a long time.
3. Hypoallergenic: the special structure of the fabric makes it safe even for allergy sufferers and small children. It does not irritate the skin, does not absorb odors, and does not collect dust.
4. Biological resistance: velsoft is not subject to rotting and tolerates high humidity well.
5. Lightness: low weight due to ultra-fine fibers makes things almost weightless. They do not put pressure on the shoulders and do not cause a feeling of heaviness.
6. Elasticity: the fabric stretches well in width, but does not lose its shape. Velsoft clothing is not characterized by sagging knees or stretched sleeves.
7. Thermoregulation ability: quickly adapts to body temperature, and due to long fibers and air pockets it reliably retains heat.

The fabric is easy to dye, which increases the aesthetics of velsoft. The dyes penetrate deep into the structure of the fibers, so the brightness of the colors is maintained even after numerous washes.

Where is it used?

The main use of soft and warm material is sewing clothes for home use:

• Pajamas;
• Kids' things;
• Warm slippers;
• Hats;
• Mittens;
• Bathrobes and dressing gowns;
• Blankets.

For such things, low-density velsoft is used - within 200 g/m

2

. Thicker material is used for sewing rugs, bedspreads, blankets and bath towels. The wear resistance of the fabric is the reason for its widespread use for upholstery of upholstered furniture and making toys for small children.

The high thermal insulation properties of velsoft allow you to feel comfortable in home clothes at any room temperature. In cold weather, robes and blankets retain heat, and when the air temperature rises, they do not allow excess heat to pass through, preventing the body from overheating.

Restrictions exist for sportswear. During intense exercise, the fabric is reluctant to absorb sweat, which is a negative quality. But for jogging in cold weather, velsoft is well suited because it is lightweight, does not restrict movement and is breathable.

Comparison with similar paintings

Velsoft is often confused with other fabrics. In fact, the material differs significantly from other pile analogues.

Fabrics	Similarities	Differences
Fleece	Compound. Both materials are made from polyester.	They differ in appearance: fleece is more reminiscent of wool or “large” suede. In addition, outerwear is often made from it. Velsoft is used in the production of home knitwear.
Velours	External similarity, tactile sensations - velvety, soft.	Velor and velsoft are united only by pile. But even the structure of the villi is different. In velor it is short, however, it is also thick and dense. The composition is also different. Velor fabric consists of cotton, to which polyester and lycra are sometimes added in small quantities. It is indispensable in the production of festive dresses and outerwear. But the main difference is the weight. Ultra-thin velsoft fibers are much superior in this indicator to heavy velor analogues.
Mahra	The presence of pile, which can be located on the front and back surfaces, softness.	Completely natural material, consists of linen or cotton. It has a pile in the form of loops. It is inferior to velsoft in weight, the synthetic fabric is lighter. There is also a noticeable difference in hygroscopicity: terry absorbs moisture better.

What standards are used in production?

When producing fabrics from polyester threads, the standards prescribed in GOST 23433-83 are applied, namely:

• determination of color fastness to light - according to GOST 9733.1-83;
• determination of color fastness to washing - according to GOST 9733.4-83;
• determination of color fastness to organic solvents - according to GOST 9733.13-83;
• determination of color fastness to friction - according to GOST 9733.27-83;
• determination of crumbling - according to GOST 3814;
• determination of hygroscopicity - according to GOST 3816-81.

Advantages

The advantages of fleecy synthetics include:

1. Breathability: thanks to the presence of cavities, air easily passes through, allowing the skin to “breathe”. Does not accumulate condensate, eliminating the “greenhouse” effect.
2. Easy to care for: the fabric does not lose its attractiveness after washing. She doesn't shed, and pellets don't appear on her. Stains are very easily removed without the use of specific products.
3. Wrinkle resistance: things made of velsoft practically do not wrinkle, creases and folds rarely appear on them, which allows you to always look neatly.
4. Antibacterial: the fabric does not attract moths. This is facilitated by synthetic raw materials and processing with technological compounds.
5. Pleasant tactility: the material is safe even for children. The pile does not prick, the seams do not rub the skin, the soft surface is comfortable, gives warmth and coziness.

Velsoft does not become electrified if fabric softener is used during washing. This will not only get rid of static, but also give things a pleasant aroma. However, with improper or untimely care, static electricity begins to accumulate. At the same time, the fibers lose their fluffiness, and the products begin to look sloppy.

Care Tips

Velsoft products are very easy to care for; they do not require special storage or operating conditions. It must be remembered that, like any microfiber with a polyester fiber base, Velsoft is not recommended to be dried on a radiator or near heat sources and subjected to heat treatment.

• Machine washable on synthetic fabrics at 30°C. The spin is automatic, at low speeds.
• It is allowed to use universal powders, gel concentrates, and any neutral detergents. Do not use detergents with chlorine or active oxygen.
• Velsoft is not recommended to be ironed, as it loses its softness. It is better to use a steamer or hold the product over boiling water, then dry it flat.

Microfiber products should be stored rolled up, but not compressed, so that the folds do not bunch up. Pests are not terrible for synthetics, but some housewives still layer the layers with scented bags or sachets with natural herbs so that the fabric absorbs pleasant odors.

Briefly about the disadvantages

In most cases, synthetic material does not cause any complaints. Difficulties may arise when cutting. The edges fray a lot, so it is better to cut the fabric on paper or film. Sometimes the long pile plays a cruel joke. If you do not pay enough attention when sewing, the thread may not grasp the warp, so the seam will not last long. To avoid this, experienced craftswomen use a presser foot while sewing.

There is no need to additionally process the edges of the internal seams. The fibers are securely held in the structure of the material and do not cause discomfort or problems during wear.

Another disadvantage of Wellsoft is low hygroscopicity. Although this is rather a distinctive feature of the material, which is why it is rarely used for the production of tracksuits. During sports, activity increases and sweating increases, so for these purposes it is better to choose clothes with higher water absorption rates.

Scope of application

Velsoft has become widespread. It is used for different purposes. On sale are:

Various outfits for home	For its tenderness and fluffiness, the material is loved by men and women. Everyone loves cozy bathrobes, pajamas, lounge suits;
Kids' things	Hats, overalls, blouses. They are hypoallergenic and will not harm the baby’s delicate skin, but they will warm you up perfectly. In such clothes you will always feel warm, not hot;
Bed dress	Blankets, blankets, bedspreads made of velsoft are things that no housewife will refuse. Thanks to the variety of textures and prints, it is easy to choose a product that will suit a specific interior. Bedspreads will become a bright accent and will attract the eye. A light blanket taken on a picnic will not increase the overall weight of the luggage too much;
Home textiles	Bright towels for the bathroom and kitchen attract with their softness; they dry quickly, which increases their hygiene. Floor mats also took their rightful place in the interior;
Shoes	Velsoft makes comfortable and cozy slippers and ugg boots. Feet do not sweat in them, and their softness prevents the appearance of calluses;
Toys	Multi-colored, with an interesting design, they can captivate a child for a long time. It's comfortable to fall asleep and play with them. At the same time, bunnies, bears and other animals made of fleecy material are absolutely safe and do not accumulate dust. And if necessary, they can be washed without compromising their appearance.

Velvety fabrics are used as furniture upholstery. For this purpose, ultrasoft is often used due to its short pile. This upholstery is durable and easy to care for. Cleaning it does not take much time and does not require expensive products.

Reviews

It is impossible to find a person who would not like home textiles made from Velsoft. Soft, cozy, easy to care for, you can wear it yourself and happily give it to friends for the holidays. Reviews of Velsoft fabric are always extremely positive.

Funny microfiber kigurumi pajamas are not only a current trend, but also a very comfortable antidepressant item for relaxing at home.

Since Velsoft is used to make clothes for small children, women’s forums are full of reviews about it. Young mothers are not entirely sure that synthetics are not harmful to the baby’s skin; some argue that the pediatrician does not recommend wearing microfiber on the naked body. However, everyone is delighted with the ease of care and speed of drying.

Many people note that even after twenty washes, things - children's blankets, pajamas, suits - look like new, and post before and after photos. In addition, they do not dry out or stretch out on the knees and elbows.

Women with small children share their experience that a greasy stain must be immediately either treated with a stain remover or sent to the washing machine. Complete absorption should not be allowed, as this will harm the fabric. It is recommended to remove marks from markers and pens with alcohol or acetone. It happens that the color of the product is not durable enough, so it is advisable to first try it in an inconspicuous place.

How to choose velsoft?

This question interests many buyers. There are usually no difficulties when choosing. But in order for the new thing not to disappoint, you need to pay attention to several important nuances:

1. Pile quality: the fibers should be dense, thick and soft. Creases and sparse pile indicate a defect.
2. Clothes size: velsoft does not shrink after washing, so there is no need to buy things a size larger. Also, don't choose clothes that are smaller in size and hope that they will stretch as you wear them. The material is characterized by dimensional stability, and such hopes may not be justified, and the item will simply remain in the closet.
3. Quality of the pattern: if reliable, safe dyes were used, then the pattern should be uniform and the canvas should not have a strong odor.

When choosing a material, be sure to consider the purpose of the purchase. If you want to sew outfits for children or adults, you need to choose thinner varieties. For bedspreads, decorative pillows and other home textiles, dense varieties - jacquard or pressed velsoft - are more suitable.

In Russia, WellSoft is produced by VioTex and Tex-design. The products of the Finnish manufacturer Marimekko with attractive prints received good reviews. Products from Turkish companies Soktash and Yunsa are popular.

Size chart

As for the size chart, velsoft blankets come in different sizes. The most popular are:

• children's. For newborns, products with dimensions of 75×75 or 75×90 cm are suitable. For preschool children, it is worth purchasing a product of 100×150, 110×140 cm. For schoolchildren, blankets with dimensions of 130×160 or 140×180, 140×205 cm are suitable;
• one-and-a-half-sleeper. Their sizes vary: 150×200, 160×200 cm, etc.;
• double. Their sizes are 180×190, 180×200, 180×220 cm
• euro and euro-maxi. Their dimensions vary from 200x220 to 220x240, 240x260 cm and more.

If a product is purchased for the purpose of covering, then the optimal choice would be a product with dimensions of 140×200 or 150×200 cm. This product is suitable for a small bed, a narrow sofa or a small sofa. For chairs, you should choose products with dimensions of 130×170 cm. If the chair is large. the ideal size would be 150x200 cm.