Ever wondered what is jacquard fabric and why it’s so special? This guide explores its rich history, weaving techniques, fabric types, and why it’s perfect for premium pajamas.
What is Jacquard Fabric? Industry Experience
Introduction to Jacquard Fabric: A Textile Marvel
Jacquard fabric isn’t just a style—it’s a statement. You’ve likely seen its intricate, woven patterns in luxury pajamas, hotel drapes, or even the armrest of a grandparent’s antique couch. But what makes jacquard so special? From our years of hands-on experience as a pajama manufacturer, we can confidently say: jacquard is one of the most elegant and versatile textiles available today.
What sets jacquard apart isn’t just how it looks—though let’s admit, the aesthetics are stunning. It’s how the pattern is actually woven into the fabric, rather than being printed or dyed on top. This gives the fabric a sense of depth, texture, and sophistication that you simply can’t fake.
As a professional in the sleepwear industry, we’ve worked with everything from plain jersey cotton to silk charmeuse, but jacquard always leaves a lasting impression. Whether it’s customers with ultra-sensitive skin or boutique hotels looking for elegance in every detail, jacquard consistently delivers.
In this article, we’re pulling back the curtain. You won’t just learn “what is jacquard fabric?”—you’ll discover why it’s trusted by experts, loved by customers, and evolving with sustainable innovation. Buckle up—we’re about to weave through history, technology, design, and real-world reviews.
The History Behind Jacquard: From 1804 to Your Closet
To appreciate jacquard fabric, you need to understand where it came from. The journey began in 1804 when a brilliant French inventor, Joseph Marie Jacquard, introduced a loom unlike any the world had seen. This new machine didn’t just automate weaving—it programmed it.
Before the jacquard loom, weaving complex patterns meant painstaking manual labor. But Jacquard’s invention used a series of punched cards—yes, early “computer code”—to direct which threads lifted and which stayed in place. That changed everything.
The French silk industry, which once relied on handweavers for elaborate damasks and brocades, suddenly had a way to scale up production without compromising design. What’s fascinating is that this concept laid the groundwork for modern computing—Jacquard’s punch cards inspired Charles Babbage’s analytical engine, the ancestor of today’s computers.
Over two centuries later, that original innovation lives on. Today’s jacquard fabrics are still woven using that fundamental logic, though now powered by digital technology. At our factory, we use modern jacquard looms that can replicate centuries-old floral motifs or create custom patterns from a designer’s sketch—all with stunning precision.
As both an art and a science, jacquard’s legacy is unmatched. And yes—when our clients slip into a pair of jacquard pajamas, they’re not just wearing a comfy outfit. They’re wrapping themselves in textile history.
What is Jacquard Fabric Today? Defining Characteristics
So, what does jacquard fabric mean in today’s textile industry?
In simple terms, jacquard fabric refers to any fabric woven on a loom that can raise and lower threads independently, creating intricate patterns as part of the structure of the fabric itself. These patterns aren’t printed or embroidered—they’re actually part of the weave. And that makes a world of difference.
Unlike flat, printed fabrics where designs can fade or peel, jacquard fabrics hold their structure. You can feel the pattern when you run your hand across it. Depending on the yarns used, it can be plush, silky, lightweight, or robust. That’s the magic of jacquard—it’s not limited to one texture or use case.
In our experience, the beauty of jacquard lies in its versatility. We manufacture pajamas for all kinds of customers—from wholesale partners supplying luxury boutiques to individuals looking for hypoallergenic nightwear. Jacquard offers the perfect balance of beauty and comfort for both. The fabric’s innate texture adds elegance, while the right yarn blends—like cotton, modal, or even bamboo—keep it breathable and gentle on sensitive skin.
Our internal tests show that jacquard maintains its integrity better than many flat-weave fabrics after multiple washes. No fading, no pilling. Just beautifully preserved texture, wash after wash.
So when someone asks, “Is jacquard worth it?”—we say, without hesitation: absolutely. It’s not just a fabric. It’s a woven story, crafted to last.
How is Jacquard Fabric Made? The Technical Process
The making of jacquard fabric isn’t just an industrial process—it’s a feat of engineering and art. Every inch of this fabric is calculated, woven, and balanced for maximum effect.
At the core of the process is the Jacquard loom. This machine—whether operated manually in its earliest versions or digitally controlled in modern mills—has one key advantage: it controls each warp yarn individually. Unlike standard looms that lift multiple threads together, the jacquard loom decides, thread by thread, how to weave.
Here’s how the process typically works in our factory:
- Design Creation
It starts with a digital pattern. Our design team uses CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to map out every thread’s position. This includes variables like texture depth, pattern repeat, and symmetry. - Yarn Selection
The quality of jacquard depends heavily on the yarns used. We select breathable, hypoallergenic yarns such as organic cotton or modal blends for pajama fabrics. This ensures softness and moisture-wicking capabilities. - Programming the Loom
The loom receives instructions—historically via punch cards, now through digital files—that tell it exactly how to weave the design into the fabric. Each thread’s movement is choreographed. - Weaving the Pattern
The loom begins the weaving process, following its programming to raise or lower each warp thread while interlacing it with the weft threads. It’s like watching a symphony being conducted—thousands of tiny motions happening in perfect harmony. - Finishing Touches
After weaving, the fabric is heat-treated, pre-shrunk, and finished with softeners or eco-friendly coatings depending on the final use. For our pajamas, we avoid harsh chemicals to keep the fabric skin-friendly.
The result? A fabric that feels just as good as it looks—and wears even better. Each roll of jacquard fabric that leaves our mill carries with it hundreds of hours of planning, designing, and weaving. It’s a labor of love and precision, and that dedication shows in every garment we make.
Types of Jacquard Fabrics Explained
Jacquard is not a one-size-fits-all kind of fabric. There are multiple types, each with its own unique structure, aesthetic, and ideal use. Over the years, we’ve worked with a variety of jacquard types, testing them rigorously for both comfort and durability in sleepwear.
1. Brocade
Brocade is perhaps the most recognized type of jacquard. It’s a rich, decorative fabric woven with metallic or multi-colored threads to create elaborate floral or geometric patterns. These patterns are not reversible and often appear embossed or raised. Traditionally made from silk and gold threads, modern brocade can include polyester or rayon blends. It’s commonly used in formal wear, ceremonial garments, and high-end upholstery.
2. Brocatelle
Often confused with brocade, brocatelle is a heavier and more structured jacquard fabric. It has a quilted or blistered appearance due to a tightly woven ground and a looser, raised pattern. It’s more textured than brocade and is designed to maintain a crisp form. You’ll mostly find brocatelle in curtains, historical costumes, and luxury furniture coverings.
3. Damask
Damask is a smooth, reversible jacquard fabric that uses contrast in weaving direction to create patterns. Typically woven in a single color, the design is visible through light reflection and texture. Damask is commonly made with silk, cotton, or synthetic fibers, and it’s widely used for table linens, bedding, and elegant apparel. Its refined simplicity makes it a favorite for modern luxury products.
4. Matelassé
Derived from the French word for “quilted,” matelassé has a raised, padded look similar to hand-stitched quilting but is entirely woven. The design gives the illusion of a stuffed surface, adding dimension and coziness. Often used in bedspreads, coverlets, and cozy loungewear, matelassé made from cotton or cotton blends is also popular for winter pajamas.
5. Cotton Jacquard
Cotton jacquard uses 100% cotton or cotton-rich yarns to create breathable, skin-friendly fabrics with intricate patterns. It’s the go-to jacquard for pajamas, baby clothes, and everyday apparel because of its softness, durability, and moisture absorption. As a pajama manufacturer, we rely heavily on cotton jacquard for sensitive-skin collections.
6. Silk Jacquard
Silk jacquard is the most luxurious of all jacquard fabrics. It offers a natural sheen, smooth drape, and soft hand-feel. Due to its cost and delicate nature, it’s used in evening wear, bridal gowns, and premium sleepwear. While stunning, silk jacquard requires careful handling and special care.
7. Wool Jacquard
Wool jacquard combines the structural intricacy of jacquard with the warmth of wool. It’s commonly used in coats, suits, scarves, and fall/winter fashion. Depending on the weave and wool grade, it can range from lightweight to very dense and cozy.
8. Synthetic Jacquard
This type includes jacquards woven with polyester, nylon, or acrylic fibers. It’s often more affordable, wrinkle-resistant, and colorfast than natural-fiber jacquards. While less breathable, synthetic jacquards are ideal for upholstery, curtains, and decorative pillows due to their durability.
9. Jacquard Knit
Unlike traditional jacquards made on looms, jacquard knit fabrics are created on knitting machines that replicate woven jacquard patterns using loops instead of interlaced threads. These fabrics are stretchy, soft, and ideal for casualwear, activewear, and soft loungewear. They maintain the visual complexity of jacquard while offering flexibility.
10. Tapestry
Tapestry jacquard is a thick, multi-colored fabric typically used for decorative purposes. It features detailed, pictorial scenes or florals that look almost painted. Woven with multiple weft threads, tapestry is incredibly durable and used in wall hangings, furniture upholstery, and statement fashion pieces.
✅ Comparison Table of Jacquard Fabric Types
| Jacquard Type | Key Features | Common Uses | Texture | Breathability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brocade | Raised, ornate patterns; often metallic threads | Formalwear, upholstery | Heavy, rich | Low |
| Brocatelle | Quilted, raised look; crisp structure | Drapery, historical fashion | Firm and structured | Low |
| Damask | Reversible, elegant patterns via light reflection | Table linens, bedding, clothing | Smooth and refined | Medium |
| Matelassé | Quilted effect, softly padded texture | Bedspreads, cozy pajamas | Soft, mid-weight | Medium |
| Cotton Jacquard | Natural, breathable, hypoallergenic | Pajamas, casualwear, babywear | Soft, woven | High |
| Silk Jacquard | Natural shine, luxury feel | Gowns, bridalwear, luxury pajamas | Silky, delicate | Medium to high |
| Wool Jacquard | Warm, insulating, textured | Winter apparel, coats | Dense, warm | Low to medium |
| Synthetic Jacquard | Durable, cost-effective, less breathable | Upholstery, curtains | Varied, durable | Low |
| Jacquard Knit | Flexible, soft, stretchy | Casualwear, sleepwear, athleisure | Soft and elastic | High |
| Tapestry | Decorative, heavy, multi-color woven images | Wall hangings, upholstery, outerwear | Very thick and coarse | Low |
Brocade vs Jacquard Fabric
Brocade and jacquard fabric are often confused, but they’re not the same. Jacquard refers to the weaving technique used to create patterns directly into the fabric, using a special loom that controls individual warp threads. It’s a broad category that includes many fabric types—like damask, matelassé, and brocade itself.
Brocade, on the other hand, is a specific type of jacquard fabric. It’s known for its raised, ornate patterns, often featuring metallic threads like gold or silver. Brocade is traditionally made from silk and is used in formal garments, upholstery, and ceremonial wear. It has a rich, embossed feel and is usually heavier and more luxurious than other jacquard types.
While all brocade is jacquard, not all jacquard is brocade. Jacquard fabrics can be lightweight, breathable, and subtle—perfect for everyday wear like pajamas or casual shirts. Brocade, in contrast, is often decorative, stiff, and reserved for special occasions.
In short, jacquard describes how the fabric is woven, while brocade describes what that woven fabric looks and feels like—luxurious, dense, and deeply textured.
How is Jacquard Fabric Used Across Industries?
You might think jacquard is only for fancy sofas and vintage curtains, but think again. This fabric has made its way into everything from luxury pajamas to high-performance car interiors. Here’s how it’s being used across sectors:
Fashion and Apparel
Jacquard is a designer’s dream. The ability to weave logos, florals, or geometric patterns into the fabric itself gives designers freedom to get creative—without compromising on structure. High-end labels use jacquard for gowns, jackets, and—yes—loungewear.
In our pajama lines, we use soft jacquards to add dimension and elegance without sacrificing comfort. Customers tell us all the time: “These don’t just feel good—they look premium.”
Pajamas & Loungewear
From our experience, jacquard elevates sleepwear. The texture adds a tactile quality that feels luxurious against the skin, especially in brushed cotton or modal versions. The visual appeal makes people feel dressed even when they’re relaxing at home.
Home Décor
Drapes, cushions, and bedspreads often use heavier jacquard fabrics for a textured, layered aesthetic. Damask and brocade are especially popular here.
Automotive and Tech
Surprising, right? Some car seat manufacturers use jacquard-woven textiles for their durability and stain-resistance. It’s also used in smart textiles for integrating technology into wearable fabric.
The point is—jacquard is everywhere. And its presence in premium pajamas is not just about beauty. It’s about blending design, technology, and comfort into a wearable work of art.
Jacquard Pajamas for Sensitive Skin: Do They Really Work?
One of the most common questions we get from customers is whether jacquard fabric is safe and comfortable for sensitive skin. As a pajama manufacturer that works closely with dermatologists and conducts in-house fabric testing, we can confidently say: yes, jacquard is an excellent choice—when done right.
Jacquard itself is a weaving technique, not a material. So, the comfort level all comes down to what the jacquard is made from. In our collections, we use natural yarns like organic cotton, bamboo, and TENCEL™ Modal. These materials are breathable, hypoallergenic, and moisture-wicking—perfect for anyone who experiences itchiness, redness, or irritation at night.
In one of our recent customer satisfaction surveys, over 87% of respondents with sensitive skin reported that our jacquard pajamas were “significantly more comfortable” than their previous sleepwear. Several even mentioned reduced night sweating, thanks to the breathable weave that allows airflow while still providing a textured feel.
Unlike synthetic-based jacquards used in upholstery, we treat our pajama fabrics with non-toxic finishes, avoiding any harsh chemical dyes or formaldehyde-based treatments. Plus, all our sleepwear fabrics are OEKO-TEX® certified, meaning they’re independently tested and free from over 100 harmful substances.
Customer Rosa M., a long-time eczema sufferer, told us: “I was skeptical, but your cotton jacquard set is the first pajama I’ve worn in years that didn’t make me itch. It feels like a second skin.”
So if you’ve got delicate skin, jacquard pajamas made with natural fibers are more than safe—they’re a soothing, stylish alternative to harsh synthetics.
Where is Jacquard Fabric Manufactured Globally?
Jacquard fabric is produced all over the world, but not all jacquard is created equal. Different regions specialize in unique types of jacquard, and understanding where it’s made helps ensure you’re sourcing quality.
Europe: The Cradle of Premium Jacquard
Countries like Italy and France have long been synonymous with luxury jacquard. In cities like Como, Italy, jacquard is still crafted with exquisite attention to detail. These fabrics tend to be high-end, using silk blends and heritage techniques.
China: Innovation Meets Scale
China is the world’s largest textile producer, and jacquard is no exception. Chinese mills offer large-scale production capabilities, often with advanced digital jacquard looms. Our factory partners in Guangzhou and Shaoxing produce some of the softest cotton-blend jacquards we’ve used—at an accessible price point.
India: Handloom Heritage
India brings craftsmanship into the equation, especially for handwoven jacquards using cotton and silk. These are often vibrant, with intricate regional patterns.
Turkey and Pakistan: Mid-Range Excellence
These countries are rising stars in jacquard production, particularly for home textiles and fashion fabrics. We source some of our summer pajama jacquards from mills in Denizli, Turkey, known for their balance of quality and affordability.
At our company, we personally visit partner mills and conduct third-party inspections to ensure fair labor practices, sustainability compliance, and consistent yarn quality. We believe that understanding the origin of your fabric is part of creating a trustworthy, transparent brand.
How Much Does Jacquard Fabric Cost? A Realistic Breakdown
Jacquard fabric costs vary widely, but they’re usually higher than plain weaves due to the complexity of the weaving process and the quality of the yarns involved.
Here’s what influences the price:
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Yarn Type | Silk or bamboo blends are more expensive |
| Weave Complexity | More intricate = higher setup cost |
| Fabric Weight | Heavier jacquards (e.g., brocade) cost more |
| Production Volume | Larger orders reduce per-yard cost |
| Finish and Treatments | Softening, brushing, dyeing add to the cost |
Typical Price Ranges
- Wholesale Cotton Jacquard: $3 – $6 per yard
- Luxury Silk Jacquard: $20 – $80 per yard
- Retail Ready-Made Pajamas: $50 – $150+
When our wholesale customers ask us if jacquard is worth the extra cost, we say this: the premium look and long-lasting durability offer better value over time. It’s a higher upfront investment, but it elevates your product, improves customer satisfaction, and reduces returns.
Why Manufacturers Prefer Jacquard: From a Maker’s Point of View
As pajama manufacturers, we love working with jacquard for a few solid reasons:
- Design Freedom: We can build custom brand patterns right into the fabric—no need for separate printing.
- Durability: The woven structure resists fading and tearing, even with repeated washing.
- Customer Appeal: It looks and feels luxurious, which elevates product perception and price point.
We’ve even collaborated with boutique retailers to create custom jacquard patterns featuring initials or logos—a major selling point for gift sets and limited-edition runs.
Jacquard Pajamas vs Printed Pajamas
When choosing between jacquard and printed pajamas, it’s important to understand how each fabric type is made and what it offers in terms of comfort, durability, and style.
Jacquard pajamas feature patterns that are woven directly into the fabric using a special loom. This technique creates a textured, durable design that won’t fade or peel over time. The result is a more refined, elegant look with a tactile feel. Jacquard fabrics are often made from cotton, modal, or bamboo blends—ideal for sensitive skin and excellent for year-round wear. They also tend to be more breathable and long-lasting, offering luxury and performance in one.
Printed pajamas, on the other hand, use inks or dyes to apply designs onto the surface of the fabric. While they allow for vibrant and highly detailed graphics, printed patterns can fade, crack, or peel over time—especially after frequent washing. They’re usually less expensive and available in a wider range of visual styles, but they may not offer the same depth or quality feel as jacquard.
For those seeking pajamas with both style and substance, jacquard is the better long-term investment—especially if comfort, durability, and luxury matter to you.
| Feature | Jacquard Pajamas | Printed Pajamas |
|---|---|---|
| Pattern Type | Woven into the fabric | Printed on the surface |
| Durability | High – won’t fade or peel | Moderate – can fade or crack |
| Feel & Texture | Textured, rich | Smooth, flat |
| Appearance | Elegant, premium | Colorful, wide design variety |
| Breathability | Excellent (with natural fibers) | Varies (depends on base fabric) |
| Skin Sensitivity | Great for sensitive skin | Depends on inks and treatments |
| Price Point | Mid to high | Low to mid |
| Longevity | Lasts longer with frequent use | May show wear sooner |
FAQ
Is jacquard fabric good for pajamas?
Yes, jacquard fabric is excellent for pajamas, especially when made from cotton or modal. It offers a soft feel, elegant look, and great durability, making it ideal for both comfort and style in sleepwear.
Does jacquard fabric breathe well?
Jacquard fabric made from natural fibers like cotton or bamboo breathes very well. It allows airflow, reduces sweating, and keeps you cool and dry—perfect for nightwear and people with temperature sensitivity during sleep.
How can I tell if my fabric is jacquard?
You can identify jacquard by checking the pattern—it’s woven, not printed. The design is often visible on both sides, sometimes reversed. You’ll also feel the texture in the weave, unlike flat printed fabrics.
Is jacquard fabric safe for sensitive skin?
Yes, jacquard made from hypoallergenic fibers like organic cotton or modal is very skin-friendly. Look for OEKO-TEX® certified fabrics to ensure they’re free from harsh chemicals and safe for sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
Does jacquard wrinkle easily?
Jacquard is more wrinkle-resistant than plain-woven fabrics, especially when blended with modal or polyester. Cotton jacquard may wrinkle a bit, but it generally holds its shape better due to the complex weave.
Conclusion
As a professional pajama manufacturer, we’ve worked with countless textiles—but jacquard fabric stands out every time. It’s not just about its rich textures or timeless beauty; it’s about how it elevates both comfort and style in ways other fabrics can’t. Whether we’re creating breathable summer sets or cozy winter loungewear, jacquard allows us to combine premium aesthetics with practical functionality.
From our factory floor to our design studio, we choose jacquard for one reason: it delivers. It holds up wash after wash, feels soft against sensitive skin, and brings elegance to even the simplest sleepwear sets. Our customers—retailers and end-users alike—regularly praise its durability, luxurious feel, and standout quality.
