Brocade is a luxurious, decorative fabric, often made from silk and polyester in a jacquard loom, and sometimes even gold threads.
Brocade Fabrics are distinguished by a secondary, non-structural weft pattern which creates a raised appearance similar to embroidery. Brocades can be made from Silk, Polyester or metallic synthetic fibers.
Brocade Fabrics are mostly used for cushions, mattresses, pillows, quilts, upholstery and draperies. They are also used for evening and formal clothing.
Damasks and Brocade are two types of jacquard fabric.
The main difference between damasks and brocades is that they are reversible. Damasks are often constructed from silk, linen, or polyester fibers. The yarn is woven so that the pattern is visible on both sides. Brocade usually have a smoother back.
Damask and brocade are both patterned fabrics woven on Jacquard looms. Damask is also usually flatter than brocade, as brocade’s patterns are to appear embossed and raised. Because of the embossing, brocades are not reversible while damask is. Brocade’s patterns are usually multi-colored, while damask can be either single color or multi-colored. Damask patterns also usually have a shine to them, as the designs are usually woven using the satin weaving technique, while brocade often uses metallic threads to create a shine.
Polyester brocade is a staple of home decor as a result of its attractive patterns. It’s durable nature makes it great for upholstery and curtains. Jacquard fabrics are noted for their unique textures. These fabrics usually have raised woven patterns. They are also very strong, durable, and easy to wash. This makes them the perfect choice for curtains, blankets, quilts, and other home furnishings also.
For home DecorsBrocade fabric is also very popular, but using the actual fabric is quite expensive and labor-intensive to attach to wall. Many damask wallpapers simply replicate the damask pattern, which looks great in homes due to the simple, repeating design.
For WallpaperGlossy brocade fabric is also popular for fashion accessories like scarves and handbags. The beautiful pattern and dense fabric creates an appealing look for statement items.
For Bedding/Clothessilky brocade fabric is used for clothing items, like decorative jackets or evening gowns. While the thick fabric doesn’t possess the same drape as other lightweight fabrics, the sturdiness creates a structured silhouette.
For ClothingBrocade is used for table sets, like napkins, table runners, and tablecloths. Damask is both decorative, durable, and able to withstand daily use.
For Table LinenIs it a brocade with gold and/or silver coloured threads? It’s an imperial brocade/brocade with brocading.
Decors fabricsIs it reversible, with the pattern a mirror of each other on each side? If so – it’s a damask. If it’s light and drapey, some people might call it a jacquard.
For Decors / PackagingThe Jacquard is a special loom, or a machine employed in the weaving of a figured fabric. The term jacquard also means the weave or a fabric with an intricately woven pattern. The Brocade on the other hand is a heavy fabric interwoven with a rich, raised design.
For Apparels or Decors
Styles / Pattern of Polyester Jacquard Brocade Fabrics: