Ultrasuede
An ultra-microfiber material often used as an alternative to suede due to its incredible likeness. First discovered by Dr. Miyoji Okamoto, ultrasuede is sold in Japan as Ecsaine and Alcantara in Italy, whilst everywhere else it is simply known as faux suede and is used in countless applications from shoes to airplane interiors.
Uses:
- shoes
- jackets
- dresses
- skirts
- home décor
Pros:
- soft
- stain resistant
- resistant to fading
Cons:
- generates a lot of static
- difficult to clean
- warps under specific temperatures
Union Cloth
The traditional name for a plainly woven fabric made from two or more fibers such as a wool warp woven together with a cotton filling. Union cloth gets its name from when it was originally used in "union suits" which were an old style of shoulder-to-ankle one-piece underwear.
Uses:
- traditional underwear
- outdoor furniture
Pros:
- long-lasting
- durable
Upholstery
A durable woven traditionally used to cover or upholster furniture. There are two main types of material used for upholstery; one for indoor use and one for outdoor use. The main difference between the two is that indoor fabric, if made from a natural material, is often solvent dyed, whilst the majority of outdoor upholstery mediums are created from solution dyed material. Many outdoor fabrics are also treated to resist the elements such as sun and water damage. Durability varies depending on the rub count.
Uses:
- couches
- drapery
- patio furniture
Pros:
- durable
- easy to clean
Urena
A natural bast fiber cultivated from the Urena Lobata plant, which grows commonly in the Congo as well as India, Brazil, and the Philippines. The fibers which are often cream colored with a fantastic luster and are spun into yarns which are then used in the same methods as jute. Can be spun on jute machinery without any special operator training or alterations to the machinery.
Uses:
- rope
- twine
- mats
- uniforms
- carpet backing
Pros:
- durable
- flexible
- luster
Cons:
- only grown in 4 places globally
- can become an invasive species if other plants grow near it
Utrecht Velvet
A strong, thick, plush material that is primarily made from cotton or mohair typically used for upholstery applications. Originally, the material was pressed and crimped to create a raised effect until modern methods came along. The name comes from Utrecht, Holland where it originated.
Uses:
- upholstery
Pros:
- durable
- luxurious
- versatile
Cons:
- difficult to maintain
- prone to matting
- dry clean only
UV Protective Fabric
Fabrics that are designed to protect against ultraviolet radiation. Most commonly, they are tightly woven and dark-colored fabrics used to create garments for spring and summer to help ward off sunburn and skin cancer.
Uses:
- bottoms
- dresses
- leggings
- swimwear
Pros:
- UV resistance
- durability
Cons:
- more expensive than non UV protective fabrics
- poor thermal regulation