Plain Corduroy Fabrics
22 products
Over 240 plain corduroys from £1.25 a metre — ribbed cotton with a soft pile, in solid colours.
The difference between needlecord and wider wales
Corduroy is woven with raised parallel ribs across the face of the material. The thickness and spacing of these ribs are defined by the wale count. Needlecord—also called needle-cord—features dense, very narrow ridges. This creates a flexible, light weight cloth suited to garments that need a softer handle, such as shirts.
When you want a more pronounced texture, options such as 8 wale corduroy feature broader, thicker ribs. These wider wales give the fabric a firmer body, making it a dependable choice for structured apparel and outerwear.
Matching corduroy fabrics to your project
Our plain corduroy selection includes 100% cotton fabrics as well as stretch corduroy options, with widths measuring 145 cm or 147 cm (58 inches). The stretch variants provide comfortable give across the body, while pure cotton options offer traditional stability. Because the pile has a distinct direction, pattern pieces should always be cut facing the same way so the colour reflects light consistently across the finished make.
Common uses across the range include:
- Everyday trousers and jackets
- Casual shirts made from fine needlecord
- Totes and structured bags
- Upholstering chairs and occasional furniture