Raindrop fabric (also called “raindrop fabric” or “dot texture fabric”) is a fabric with a concave and convex texture similar to raindrops or small dots on the surface, usually achieved through special weaving processes or finishing technologies. Its name comes from the raised dots evenly distributed on the fabric, which resemble raindrops. The following is a detailed analysis of this fabric:
1.Common materials
Raindrop fabric does not refer to a single fiber, but is processed from different base fabrics according to the purpose. Common materials include:
- Polyester fiber (polyester): wear-resistant, easy to care for, suitable for outdoor or sportswear.
- Nylon: light and waterproof, often used in functional clothing (such as jacket lining).
- Cotton or cotton blends: soft and breathable, mostly used in casual clothing or household items.
- Composite fabrics: waterproof coatings (such as PU coatings) or breathable membranes (such as TPU) may be added to enhance functionality.
2.Features and Uses
- Texture Effect:
The raised “raindrops” on the surface are formed by the following methods:
o Weaving process: double-sided knitting or jacquard weaving to form a three-dimensional dot structure.
o Embossing: using a hot press machine to press a concave and convex texture on the fabric.
o Coating/compounding: dot-shaped glue coating (such as waterproof glue dots) to achieve functional + texture combination. - Functional Advantages:
o Breathable and perspiration-wicking: the raised structure increases air circulation (suitable for sportswear lining).
o Anti-slip and wear-resistant: the texture enhances friction (such as backpack lining, gloves).
o Waterproof and moisture-wicking: the raindrop texture can guide moisture to slide off (common in outdoor clothing). - Common uses:
o Sportswear (such as baseball jacket lining, cycling clothes)
o Outdoor equipment (tent lining, mountaineering bags)
o Household items (anti-slip tablecloths, pillows)
o Fashion design (textured decorative fabrics)
3.Differences from similar fabrics
- Waffle Fabric:
Grid-like concave and convex texture, strong moisture absorption, mostly used for towels and bathrobes. - Seersucker:
Irregular concave and convex are formed by shrinking elastic yarn, which is lighter and more breathable. - Flocking dot fabric:
The surface is formed by electrostatic flocking to form velvet dots, which is soft to the touch and used for decoration.
4.Purchase and maintenance suggestions
- Sports/outdoor use: Choose polyester or nylon base fabric, pay attention to waterproof and breathable performance.
- Daily use: Cotton raindrop fabric is more skin-friendly, but
Avoid high-temperature washing to prevent deformation. - Maintenance: Turn the fabric over when washing in the machine to avoid sharp objects scratching the raised texture.
