Silk Fabric Specifications FAQ

Find answers to common questions about silk fabric specifications at JB Silks including momme weight, fabric width, yards versus meters, bolts, sample yardage, and how to read and compare a silk fabric listing.

Is silk fabric at JB Silks sold by thread count?

JB Silks silk fabrics are sold by momme weight, not thread count. Momme (mm) measures the weight of the silk fabric, and a higher momme number indicates a heavier silk fabric.

What does mm mean in silk fabric?

In the silk fabric industry, mm is the abbreviation for momme which is a measurement of the weight and density of silk fabric. The higher the momme number, the heavier the silk fabric. Momme should not be confused with thread count.

What is momme weight in silk fabric?

Momme (mm) is the unit of measurement used to describe the weight and density of silk fabric. The higher the momme number, the heavier and more durable the fabric. Lightweight silks range from 6 to 18 momme, midweight silks from 19 to 30 momme, and heavyweight silks from 30 momme and above.

What is a lightweight silk fabric?

Lightweight silk fabrics typically range from 6 to 18 momme. The lightest weight fabrics include Silk Chiffon and Silk Organza, which are sheer, delicate, and ideal for flowing overlays, veils, and scarves. Slightly heavier lightweight fabrics include Silk Habotai, Silk Crepe de Chine, and Silk Charmeuse Satin, which are ideal for hair wraps, scarves, attire, and decorative applications.

What is a midweight silk fabric?

Midweight silk fabrics typically range from 19 to 30 momme. Examples include Sueded Silks, Silk Charmeuse Satin, Stretch Silk Charmeuse Satin, Silk Georgette, Silk Crepe, and Silk Crepe Back Satin. Midweight silk fabrics are suitable for a wide range of projects including blouses, dresses, party wear, formal wear, and home decor.

What is a heavyweight silk fabric?

Heavyweight silk fabrics are generally 30 momme and above. These silks include Sueded Heavy Silks, Silk Shantung, Silk Doupioni, Silk Taffeta, Silk Duchesse Satin, and Mikado. These are ideal for structured garments, costumes, gowns, and home decor applications.

Is 19 momme silk good?

Yes, 19 momme silk is considered a midweight with numerous uses from fashion garments to accessories and home decor.

Is 22 momme silk good?

Yes, 22 momme silk is a midweight fabric that is slightly heavier than 19 momme.

What is the difference between 19 and 22 momme silk?

The difference in weight between 19 and 22 momme silk is relatively small. The 22 momme fabric contains slightly more silk by weight, making it somewhat heavier. The weight difference is 0.38 ounces per square yard, and are very similar in appearance and hand. 

What momme weight is best for a silk pillowcase?

The ideal momme weight depends on how lightweight or heavyweight you would like your pillowcase to be. A lightweight pillowcase is anywhere from 16 to 18 momme. For a midweight pillowcase, 19 to 25 momme is good. For a heavyweight, luxurious pillowcase, 30 momme and higher is preferred.

What momme weight silk does JB Silks sell?

JB Silks offers silk fabrics ranging from lightweight 6 momme Silk Chiffon and Organza through heavyweight 40 momme Stretch Silk Heavy Charmeuse and Heavyweight Sueded Silks. Available momme weights vary by fabric type and are listed on each product page.

What is a yard of fabric?

A yard of fabric refers to the length and is 36 inches or 91.44 cm long however the width can vary depending on the silk fabric type.

What is a half yard of fabric?

A half yard of fabric is 18 inches or 45.72 cm long. The width can vary depending on the silk fabric type.

What does width mean in fabric?

The width of a silk fabric is measured from selvage to selvage, also referred to as edge to edge. JB Silks lists the width for each fabric type on its product pages, with many fabrics offered in two widths.

What does length mean in fabric?

Length is the measurement of a continuous piece of fabric as it comes off the weaving machine, also referred to as the warp direction.

Is a yard and a meter the same?

No, a yard and a meter are not the same. The difference between a yard and a meter is 3.37 inches or 8.56 cm. To convert meters to yards, multiply the meters by 1.094. For example, 5 meters is equivalent to 5.47 yards, which is a 9.4% difference. When comparing prices, always check the unit of measure along with fabric weight, material composition, and width.

Why should I buy a wider width fabric?

A wider fabric can be more economical depending on the pattern and layout. It can reduce total yardage needed, reduce the number of seams, and make pattern matching easier on large repeat designs. JB Silks considers a wide width fabric to be 54 to 55 inches.

What is sample yardage?

Sample yardage at JB Silks refers to a cut piece of fabric less than 12 yards.

What is a piece of fabric called?

A piece of fabric may be called a CFA, cutting for approval, end, yardage, bolt, sample, or swatch depending on size and use.

What is a bolt of fabric?

A bolt is a continuous length of fabric wound around a cardboard tube or flat board. The terminology dates to the 15th century. At JB Silks a bolt applies to lengths over 12 yards per color.

How many yards is a bolt of fabric?

At JB Silks, a bolt of fabric is a continuous length of fabric over 12 yards.

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