Description : "Crepe" or "crape" is a general classification of fabrics characterized by a wide range of crinkled or grained surface effects. These fabrics may be made of silk, rayon, acetate, cotton, wool, man-made fibers or blends. In its thinnest variant, this is also called "Crêpe de Chine". It has a slighlty crinkly surface formed by twisted yarns. Silk crepe has beautiful drape and produces pucker free seams, while polyester crepe may have less drape and cause some puckering.
Fabrication : A variety of methods is used for manufacturing crepe fabrics. These include the use of hard twisted yarns, textured yarns, special chemical treatment, special weaves, and embossing. Crepe is, for example, made by weaving the silk in its natural condition. In Canton crêpe, the yarn from two bobbins is twisted together during this process. The resulting fabric is still smooth until it is boiled to extract the gum. This allows the fabric to become soft and to lose its twist, resulting in the wavy appearance of the surface of the fabric. In hard crapes, the treatment process is different. Crape today is also made out of synthetic fibres, resulting in a fabric which is more versatile and hardwearing.
Subtypes : Two varieties of the fabric are Soft (also called Canton or Oriental crêpe) and hard (or crisped) crape. Hard crêpes are further subdivided into single, double or two-ply (the most common type), three-ply (used by high end designers) and four-ply (used in tailored pants and jackets) variants.
Dyes, color treatment and washing characteristics : You may pre-shrink the garment by passing a steam iron 1/2" (1 cm) above the surface of the fabric. Light colors may be handwashed in warm water - otherwise, the fabric should be dry-cleaned. Air dry and press while still damp.
Draping properties : Because of its pebbly surface, crêpe tends to snag during wear, hence it cannot be worn under all circumstances.
Cutting properties : Lay fabric, double thickness, onto flannellette or tissue paper to prevent it sliding around while cutting. Pin pattern to fabric, preferably within the seam allowances.
Sewing challenges : Since seam ripping may damage the fabric, you should try to avoid needing to do so. Hand basting is the best way to avoid this. Seams should be flat felled or otherwise bound.
Example creations : Baby doll tunic, Fuchsia blouse, Tara top, Blue dress, Wool crêpe blazer, Summer dress,
Uses worldwide : Crêpe is used for scarves, shawls and flourishes, dresses, skirts and blouses.
Origins and history : The name derives from the French word "crêpe" meaning thin pancake.
Wikipedia reference


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