Foulard is a material that is used in many of the products that men and women use every day. Here is some background on foulard, how it is created, and what the material is most often used for in the way of garments and other fabric creations.

As the proper name for a silk handkerchief in French, the name of foulard is very appropriate for the name of this particular type of material. Essentially, foulard is a lightweight fabric that is created by using a spinning and weaving process to produce plain woven sheeting or twill fabric.

Historically, using silk, cotton, or a silk and cotton blend as the base fibers for the finished product produces foulard. Foulard carries a higher thread count, which means that the weave on the fabric is very tight, more so than with many types of fabric sheeting. The result is that the texture of foulard is smooth, silky, and because of the cotton content is still easy to care for and allows the wearer to breathe.

Foulard is often used in dressmaking, notably in dresses that are meant for wear in warmer climates. The cotton in the foulard allows air to pass between the threads in the weave, and allows the wearer of the garment to take better advantage of any breeze. In many cultures, men’s shirts and slacks are also made of foulard. One of the more popular items of men’s wear that are made of foulard is a lightweight twill style suit. Popular in warm climates, the twill suit allows the male to still carry a professional appearance even if the weather is less than comfortable.

Sportswear and jogging shorts and shirts that are meant for use during the summer months are examples of modern uses for foulard. Again, the weave of the woven silk and cotton material allows for efficient circulation of air, resulting in a greater level of comfort for the wearer. In addition, the process for making foulard is so inexpensive these days that the garments can be sold at competitive prices. The combination of reasonable pricing and the ability to breathe in the clothing makes the use of foulard a natural with such sports as running, tennis, jogging, and biking.

Foulard is also a perfect material to be used in the production of hand painted screens. This should come as no surprise, since foulard is believed by many to have originated in the Far East. As a canvass used for hand painting scenes that can then be attached to screens and fitted together to make room dividers, foulard works very well.

Of course, foulard is the ideal material for scarves and handkerchiefs that help to compliment a number of male and female wardrobes all over the world. In fact, any garment that should be soft and silky to the touch can usually be created using foulard. As a staple material in a number of different types of clothing, as well as artistic uses, foulard is sure to be part of the landscape for many years to come.