Necktie Fabrics

Common Fabrics Used for Mens Neckties

Even though most neckties are made from silk, there are several other fabrics commonly used for ties. Advances in weaving techniques allows for a wider blend in fabrics while advances in synthetics have created a much larger choice in man made fibers. Below are the most common fabrics used for making a mens necktie.



Silk
Undoubtedly the classic fabric for a mens necktie. Even though silk production is quite complex, it is a natural fabric that has been known to mankind for over 8,000 years. A silk tie is characterized by its soft feel and excellent shine. While natural fibers slide through your hands perfectly, quality silk fabric will actually stick to your fingers. When doing this test, please be careful not to pull individual threads out of the fabric. For more information you may also want to read about Silk in our fashion and textile encyclopedia.

Thai Silk
Thai silk refers to natural silk that is made in Thailand from Thai silk worms. Traditionally Thai silk is handwoven and therefore the fabric has slight irregulations. Although used for making mens ties, thai silk is more commonly used on pocket squares. For more information we suggest you read about Thai Silk in our fashion and textile A-Z.

Wool
Wool ties are usually knitted and do have a flat tip. Most wool ties have a skinnier cut (less than 3 inches) and are commonly in simple color shades. Most common is the solid black skinny knitted ties.

Mogador and Poplin
Mogador and Poplin are fabric blends that mix silk in the warp with either cotton or finest wool in the warp. These fabrics have a slightly stiffer feel and matte shine. Irish necktie maker Atkinsons has been known for making regimental ties from Irish Poplin. (To see our collection please visit our section about Atkinsons Neckties) Both, Mogador and Poplin, are perfect fabrics for ribbed striped ties, British neckties, Regimental Striped Ties, and Collegiate striped ties.

Microfiber:
Microfiber is a man-made fabric that is made from polyester and polyamide. Both synthetics are mixed together and are then spun into a microscopic thin yarn. The yarn is actually even finer that pure silk. This yarn is then woven into a fabric that is almost identical in look and feel to silk. The benefit microfiber brings is a much lower cost point. In addition, microfiber can be dyed in a much wider color range. Finally, microfiber has the benefit of being much more resistant to stains and wrinkles.

Polyester:
Polyester is one of the cheapest and least attractive materials for making a mens tie. Polyester ties are immediately noticeable by their "plastic-like" look and feel. Unless you are looking for a company uniform tie, polyester ties are not recommended.

Other Reading You May Like:
Silk, Microfiber, or Polyester Ties

Your Ties-Necktie.com Team