An incomplete, imperfect fabric with a special effect. The slub! A slub fabric can be recognised by it’s asymmetric, uneven yarns. This yarn type belongs to the fancy yarns group. Fancy yarns have a surface structure that deviates or colours that deviate from standard yarns.

How are slub yarns produced?

Slub yarns are created by changing the speed of the base rollers on the spinning frame, which produces threads with thicker sections in different places. In the 19th century, yarn was still spun by hand. Therefore, it was more common to have yarns of differing thickness. The introduction of spinning frames took care of this problem.

How did the slub become popular?

In slub fabrics, the threads are thicker in various places. This produces a special effect when you weave a fabric out of these yarns. Initially, yarns of uneven thickness were regarded as damaged or of poor quality. Later, the use of slub yarns in linen look-a-like fabrics became a trend. Initially, slub yarns were only available in natural fabrics such as cotton, linen and wool. The modern machines used nowadays can create a slub effect with synthetic yarns to give it a more natural look.

There are numerous types of fancy yarns. These are usually used in fabrics for, amongst others, casual shirts, curtain fabrics, furniture upholstery and various other fashionable items. The Tootal Fabrics slub collection is available in different blends and colours.