Sweat Fabric

Sweat Fabric by the Metre for Sweaters and Loungewear

Sweat fabric, also known as French terry, is a knitted stretch fabric with a smooth face and a looped back. This particular quality is unbrushed, so it stays looped rather than fluffy, which gives it a slightly firmer hand than a brushed sweat material. We stock this fabric by the metre and ship it directly from our warehouse in Tilburg. It's a reliable material for anyone sewing sweaters, joggers, or casual vests, whether you're a hobby sewist or a small label placing a larger order.

French terry sits somewhere between a jersey and a heavier sweat material: stretchy enough for comfort, stable enough to hold its shape in a waistband or cuff. Because it's a knit, you'll want a ballpoint or stretch needle and a slight zigzag or overlock stitch to keep the seams moving with the fabric instead of popping.

What this sweat fabric is made for

This is a classic sweatshirt fabric, so the main use is exactly what the name suggests: sweaters, hoodies, and casual tops. It also works well for jogging pants and vests, where you need a fabric that drapes but doesn't sag out of shape after a few washes. The looped back gives a bit of warmth without the bulk of a brushed fleece, so it's a good pick for spring and autumn garments as well as year-round basics.

• Sweaters and sweatshirts
• Casual vests and gilets
• Sweatpants and joggers
• Loungewear and casual home clothing

Unbrushed versus brushed French terry

The sweat fabric in this category is not brushed, so the reverse side keeps its looped texture and won't fluff or pill over time. If you're after a softer, brushed-back alternative, take a look at our French Terry Brushed Fabric (Isoli), which is a certified organic cotton quality with a soft, brushed reverse. Choosing between the two often comes down to the finish you want inside the garment: crisp and looped, or soft and fleecy.

Ordering by the metre and getting a fabric sample

You can order sweat fabric per metre, which keeps things flexible whether you need half a metre for a test piece or a bulk length for a production run. If you're not sure about colour or thickness in person, request a fabric sample for €0,50 before committing to a larger cut. We also offer wholesale pricing from 6 metres, which makes this a practical option for small businesses and workshops, not just individual makers.

Beyond sweat fabric: other knits worth exploring

If French terry isn't quite what you're after, our range of jersey fabrics includes several related options. The Waffle Knit Jersey Fabric gives a textured alternative with more visual interest, while Rib Knit Jersey Fabric suits cuffs, collars, and fitted tops. For something with more stretch recovery, our Scuba Crepe Jersey Fabric is worth a look, and the Bamboo Jersey Fabrics offer a softer, more breathable option for warmer garments.

A dependable sweat fabric for everyday sewing

Sweat fabric remains one of the most practical knits for casual clothing: warm enough for cooler days, stretchy enough for comfort, and versatile across sweaters, vests, and joggers alike. With fabric samples available and wholesale pricing from 6 metres, it's easy to test the quality before ordering a full length. Browse the collection and find the right sweat material for your next project.