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lining fabric, also known as interlining fabric, is a separate piece of fabric used inside a garment to create opacity and add comfort. Lining fabrics can be woven or knit and are available in many types of materials such as polyester, rayon and acetate. They are used to line a variety of sewn items such as clothing, jackets, pants, dresses and even furnishings like lightweight curtains.
Lining fabrics are typically made from a material that is very soft, comfortable and often has a silky texture which can feel great against the skin. Some lining fabrics are also warm and provide extra warmth in winter. They are a necessity for some clothing pieces to make them feel nice against the skin, especially if the outer fabric is itchy, or to add extra protection against wind and cold weather.
There are a wide variety of lining fabrics that can be used and it is important to think about what your intended outcome is when choosing a lining fabric. Some are breathable, some are moisture-wicking and others are very thin which means that they won't add too much bulk to the outer fabric when used as a lining.
Some lining fabrics are very expensive such as silk but there are also cheaper options that can still look nice, such as china silk, which is a similar texture to satin but more cost-efficient. Some lining fabrics are naturally wrinkle resistant, which can be helpful for some clothing styles such as a dress or skirt that may need to be worn often. Other lining fabrics can help to keep the shape of the garment, prevent sagging or stretching and protect against water or wind.