Brocade Fabric

What is Brocade? 

• Brocade is a patterned fabric specifically made for ornamental outfits.
• It has a huge history of uses in different cultures.
• Earlier brocade was made purely with silk but now it is blended with various other fabrics like cotton, synthetic fibers, and wool. 
• Due to its embroidery with golden and silver threads, and extra weft threads it looks rich.

History

• Brocade was first found during China’s Warring States period between 475 to 221 BC. 
• The application of brocade was limited in China until the initial few centuries of AD.
• According to historians, during the 6th Century, intrepid monks from the Empire of Byzantine secretly took the sericulture out of China.
• In one night, Byzantium became a massive producer of brocade. Resulting to be the primary producer throughout the Middle ages. 

What Makes it Stand Out

Shine	The Brocade fabric features a weave with floating threads which create a lustrous surface.
Texture	It has a smooth and soft surface
Sheer	Brocade is opaque and heavyweight
Fall	The fabric drapes quite well

Application & Usage

Clothing	Sarees, dresses, dupattas, etc.
Accessories	Tie, pocket squares, throw pillows, etc.
Home-furnishing	Cushion covers, sofa covers, curtains, etc.

Judge the Authenticity 

• The only way to judge the authenticity of a Brocade is by checking the backside of the fabric as it has floating yarns. Due to this brocade fabrics are non-reversible. 

Care Instructions 

• It is best to dry clean brocade outfits as it will protect the dye and design from getting damaged.
• In case of washing the fabric at home, prefer mild detergent.
• Do not twist or squeeze the fabric and lay it flat for drying. 
• Do not iron at high temperatures, it will harm the soft threads of brocade.