Buying Silk Fabric FAQ

Find answers to common questions about buying silk fabric online from JB Silks including how to identify real silk, understand momme weight, convert fabric measurements, and make confident purchasing decisions.

Who does JB Silks sell to?

JB Silks supplies silk fabrics to fashion designers, bridal manufacturers, costume designers, decorators, home furnishing companies, educational institutions, manufacturers, and individual consumers throughout the USA and Canada.

Why choose JB Silks?

JB Silks has specialized in silk fabrics for over 40 years and has been selling online since 2001. The company remains founder-owned and operated, and serves customers ranging from individual sewists to manufacturers and designers throughout the USA and Canada.

What should I look for when buying silk fabric online?

JB Silks recommends verifying the exact fiber content and silk percentage, ordering a sample swatch before committing to larger quantities, and comparing fabrics of the same momme weight and width to ensure accurate price comparisons.

Is all silk fabric mulberry silk?

No. While mulberry silk is the most common and highest quality silk used in the textile industry, silk can also be produced by other silkworm species including Tussah, Eri, and Muga silks, each with their own appearance and characteristics.

Is 100% silk always better than silk blends?

Not necessarily. While pure silk is often prized for its luxurious feel, silk blends can offer practical advantages. For instance, adding a small percentage of stretch fibers can greatly improve comfort and flexibility, especially in fitted garments. A notable example is JB Silks' Silk & Wool Mikado, a refined blend that provides the structure needed for tailored pieces such as suits which are often chosen for special occasions like weddings. At the same time, the silk component lends a beautiful, elegant sheen, combining durability with sophistication.

Why do silk fabric prices vary so much?

Silk fabric prices vary depending on fiber quality, silk content, momme weight, fabric width, weave complexity, finishing treatments, and embellishments such as embroidery, beading, or sequins. When comparing prices, buyers should always compare fabrics with similar silk content, weight, and width.

What does "silky," "silk-like," or "art silk" mean?

These terms describe only the surface appearance of a fabric and do not guarantee the presence of real silk. "Art Silk" is short for "Artificial Silk" and typically refers to synthetic fibers such as polyester.

How can I tell if my fabric is real silk?

A small sample of pure silk dissolved in a sodium hydroxide (lye-based) drain cleaner solution will dissolve completely in about 15 minutes, similar to human hair. Blended fabrics will leave synthetic fibers behind, while 100% polyester remains completely unaffected.

How do I convert momme to GSM or ounces per square yard?

To convert momme to grams per square meter (gsm), multiply momme by 4.34. To convert gsm to ounces per square yard, divide gsm by 33.906. For example, 19 momme silk equals 82.46 gsm or 2.43 oz/yd². For a convenient momme conversion look-up table, visit the JB Silks Buying Silk Fabric guide.

Is higher momme silk better?

Not necessarily. A higher momme number indicates a heavier and denser silk fabric, but heavier silk is not always better for every application. Lightweight silks such as chiffon and organza are ideal for scarves, overlays, and flowing garments, while heavier silks such as duchesse satin, taffeta, and mikado are preferred for structured garments and home decor applications. JB Silks recommends selecting the momme weight that best suits the intended project rather than simply choosing the heaviest silk available.

What is the cheapest silk fabric?

Lightweight silk fabrics such as Silk Organza, Silk Habotai, Silk Chiffon, and some lightweight Silk Charmeuse Satins are often among the least expensive silk fabrics because they contain less silk by weight than heavier fabrics. The width of the fabric will also influence the price. A lower price does not necessarily indicate lower quality, and JB Silks recommends selecting the silk fabric that best suits the intended project rather than simply choosing the least expensive option.

What is the most expensive silk fabric?

Heavyweight silk fabrics as well as beaded and sequin silk fabrics are the most expensive types of silk fabrics. Prices can also increase significantly with wider widths, specialty finishes, hand weaving, and complex embellishments.

Why should I check silk fabric color in natural daylight?

Online photos may not reflect true colors. JB Silks recommends ordering sample swatches and viewing them outdoors in natural daylight before purchasing, especially for critical color-matching projects such as bridal wear.

For more frequently asked questions, visit the Silk Fabric FAQs page.