What is a nap in dressmaking terms?
Nap is the raised surface created by cut threads (pile) woven into fabric. Examples include corduroy, velvet, velveteen, and velour. Some fabrics also have a nap that do not have a pile. Examples include brushed fabrics and Ultrasuede. When you run your hand over the surface of the fabric from one end to the other, it will feel smooth in one direction and rough in the other. In addition, it will look brighter in one direction and duller in the other. When you are constructing clothing, you want to be aware of the direction in which the nap runs. Usually, you’ll want the nap to run down the fabric of the garment–so that if you brush your hand down over it, it looks dull rather than bright. Pattern layouts usually have all of the pieces with the top in the same direction for napped fabrics (and those with one-way designs). Sometimes that takes more fabric, but it is necessary so that the nap goes in the same direction on all pieces. Otherwise, the difference in the sheen will be instant
