Chenille Fabrics

Chenille can refer to both a yarn and a cloth created from it. It is a French word that refers to the caterpillar's fur, which the yarn is designed to imitate. Chenille fabrics are known for their softness and distinctive appearance. Because the fibers capture the light differently in different directions, chenille will appear different in one direction compared to another. Chenille may be made to look iridescent without the use of iridescent fibers. Cotton is the most common material used, however acrylic, rayon, and olefin can also be used. Most of the Chenille fabrics must be dry cleaned.