What is nap in sewing?

A nap in sewing refers to the direction in which the fibers of the fabric lie. Fabrics with a nap have a distinct texture or sheen when viewed from different angles, as the fibers reflect light differently depending on their orientation. Examples of fabrics with a nap include velvet, corduroy, and suede.

When cutting and sewing fabrics with a nap, it is important to pay attention to the direction in which the nap lies to ensure consistency in the finished product. The pattern pieces should all be cut in the same direction so that the nap appears uniform throughout the garment. It is also recommended to cut fabric with a nap in a single layer rather than folding it, to prevent distortion of the nap.

Sewing with fabrics that have a nap can be more challenging than working with standard fabrics, as special care must be taken to avoid issues such as shading, shading, or uneven texture. It is also recommended to use a nap layout diagram provided in the pattern instructions to help determine the correct direction of the nap for each pattern piece.