Waffle fabric and thermal fabric are beloved for their distinctive honeycomb grid texture that creates tiny air pockets to trap warmth while remaining breathable. Whether you're sewing cozy pajamas, comfortable loungewear, or soft blankets, these versatile fabrics offer the perfect combination of insulation, comfort, and easy care.
The characteristic square grid pattern not only looks great but also provides excellent functionality - fast-drying, absorbent, and incredibly soft. Brushed waffle varieties are even softer and warmer, making them ideal for cold-weather comfort.
What is Waffle Fabric?
Waffle fabric, also called "honeycomb" or waffle weave fabric, is a textured knit fabric woven in square grids that create a distinctive three-dimensional pattern. This unique construction forms little air pockets that provide excellent insulation by trapping body heat close to the skin while remaining breathable and moisture-wicking.
The grid pattern makes waffle fabric both functional and visually interesting. The geometric texture adds dimension to simple designs and works beautifully for monograms - which is why waffle weave is so popular for towels, bathrobes, and personalized items.
What is Thermal Fabric?
Thermal fabric is essentially medium to heavy-weight waffle knit fabric. When you see "thermal" in a fabric description, it's referring to a heavier gauge waffle weave that provides extra warmth and insulation. Think classic thermal underwear or heavyweight pajamas - that's thermal fabric!
Why Choose Waffle Fabric and Thermal Fabric?
- Warmth Without Weight - Air pockets trap heat while keeping fabric lightweight
- Breathable & Moisture-Wicking - Stays comfortable without overheating
- Fast-Drying - Perfect for items that need frequent washing
- Incredibly Soft - Especially brushed waffle varieties
- Absorbent - Ideal for towels, dishcloths, and bathrobes
- Durable - Holds up well to regular use and washing
- Distinctive Texture - Honeycomb pattern adds visual interest
- Great for Monograms - Texture provides excellent embroidery base
- Comfortable All Day - Perfect for loungewear and sleepwear
Understanding Waffle Fabric Gauges
Waffle fabric comes in various gauges from fine to coarse. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right weight for your project:
- Light/Fine Waffle - Tiny squares, lightweight fabric. Best for: dish towels, baby clothes, lightweight tops, summer pajamas
- Medium Waffle - Medium-sized weave pattern. Best for: loungewear, pajamas, hats, cardigans, lightweight blankets
- Heavy/Coarse (Thermal) - Large, thick, heavier fabric. Best for: plush towels, bathrobes, thermal underwear, cozy blankets, winter pajamas
- Brushed Waffle - Any gauge that's been brushed for extra softness. Warmer and cozier than unbrushed varieties
What Can You Make with Waffle Fabric?
Waffle fabric is incredibly versatile for cozy, comfortable projects:
- Loungewear and casual shirts
- Pajamas and sleepwear
- Thermal underwear and base layers
- Cardigans and hoodies
- Beanies and hats
- Baby clothing and blankets
- Bathrobes and spa wraps
- Towels and dishcloths
- Cozy blankets and throws
- Dresses and skirts
Looking for sewing patterns? Waffle fabric works beautifully with patterns from Peek-a-Boo Pattern Shop designed for knit fabrics with moderate stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waffle Fabric
What's the difference between waffle fabric and thermal fabric?
"Waffle fabric" refers to any fabric with the honeycomb grid texture, regardless of weight. "Thermal fabric" specifically refers to medium to heavy-weight waffle knit fabrics. All thermal fabric is waffle fabric, but not all waffle fabric is heavy enough to be called thermal fabric.
What is waffle fabric made from?
"Waffle" refers to the weave pattern, not the fiber content. Waffle fabric can be made from cotton, wool, polyester, rayon, bamboo, or blends. The fabric content will vary - check individual product descriptions. Cotton waffle is most common for apparel and towels, while rayon/poly blends often provide extra drape.
Does waffle fabric have stretch?
Most waffle fabric has 2-way stretch (side to side), though some varieties have 4-way stretch. Cotton lycra waffle knit typically has good stretch and recovery. However, waffle fabric generally has poor recovery compared to other knits - when stretched, it doesn't snap back as quickly. This affects how you sew with it.
Is brushed waffle fabric different from regular waffle?
Yes! Brushed waffle has been mechanically brushed to raise the fibers, creating an incredibly soft, fuzzy surface. Brushed waffle is warmer, softer, and cozier than regular waffle fabric. It's perfect for pajamas, loungewear, and baby items where maximum softness is desired.
What needle should I use for waffle fabric?
Use a ballpoint or stretch needle in size 75/11 or 90/14 depending on fabric weight. The ballpoint tip prevents damage to the knit structure. For very fine waffle, use 75/11. For medium to heavy thermal waffle, use 90/14.
Why does my waffle fabric ripple when I sew it?
Waffle fabric has poor recovery, meaning it doesn't bounce back quickly when stretched. This can cause rippling if you pull the fabric while sewing. Solutions: use a walking foot, increase stitch length slightly, lower presser foot pressure, and avoid stretching the fabric while pinning or sewing.
Should I cut waffle fabric in a single layer?
Yes! It's best practice to cut waffle fabric in a single layer rather than on the fold. This ensures you get straight, beautiful lines that align with the grid pattern. The honeycomb texture can shift when doubled, causing uneven cuts.
Does waffle fabric shrink?
Cotton and cotton-blend waffle fabrics can shrink, especially on the first wash. Always pre-wash and dry your waffle fabric before cutting to get it to its most accurate size. Wash in as hot of water as you're comfortable with and dry on the heat setting you'll use for the finished garment.
Can I use waffle fabric for towels and dishcloths?
Absolutely! Cotton waffle fabric is ideal for towels, dishcloths, and kitchen items because it's highly absorbent and fast-drying. The textured surface provides good scrubbing action too. Choose light to medium-weight waffle for quick-drying dishcloths, or heavy waffle for plush bath towels.
Is waffle fabric good for baby clothes?
Yes! Waffle fabric, especially cotton waffle and brushed waffle, is wonderful for baby clothing. It's soft, breathable, and gentle on sensitive skin. The texture prevents the fabric from clinging or feeling clammy. Just be sure to pre-wash thoroughly and choose cotton or natural fiber blends for baby items.
Tips for Sewing with Waffle Fabric
- Practice first - Waffle has a learning curve. Test on a sample before starting your project
- Cut in single layer - Ensures straight lines aligned with grid pattern
- Use a walking foot - Helps move fabric evenly through machine
- Increase stitch length - Slightly longer stitches prevent rippling
- Lower presser foot pressure - Reduces stretching and distortion
- Don't stretch while pinning - Poor recovery means it won't bounce back
- Consider pattern placement - Grid pattern affects visual appearance at seams
- Press carefully - Waffle fabric presses beautifully to fix minor issues
- Use ballpoint needle - Size 75/11 for fine, 90/14 for heavy
- Always pre-wash - Essential to prevent shrinkage in finished garment
Best Fabrics to Pair with Waffle Fabric
Complete your waffle fabric projects with these complementary fabrics:
- Rib Knit - Perfect for cuffs, waistbands, and neckbands on loungewear
- Cotton Lycra - Good for contrasting details and color blocking
- French Terry - Similar comfort, different texture for variety
- Solid Knit Essentials - Coordinate with patterned waffle fabrics
- Bamboo - Luxurious alternative with similar drape
Shop Waffle Fabric by Type
Browse our complete collection:
- Solid Waffle Knit - Classic colors for any project
- Cotton Lycra Waffle Knit - Stretch and recovery for fitted garments
- Brushed Mini Waffle - Extra soft brushed varieties
- 100% Cotton Waffle Jersey - Natural fiber option
- Printed Waffle Fabric - Floral and Animal prints
What Our Customers Are Saying
Don't just take our word for it - here's what our customers say about our waffle and thermal fabrics:
"The waffle cotton lycra is perfection." - Maryuri
"Your cotton waffle knit was perfect for my little guys jammies." - Dawn
"I made these pajamas with the oatmeal waffle knit and they are soooo soft!" - Cassandra
"Beautiful cotton lycra waffle knit - super cozy." - Susan
"Perfect and so cozy, soft!" - Chelsey
"This brushed waffle is so incredibly soft and squishy!" - Jill
Join Our Sewing Community
Connect with thousands of sewists who love waffle fabric:
Why Buy Waffle Fabric from KnitFabric.com?
- Fast Shipping: Flat rate shipping on all orders
- Quality Guarantee: Premium waffle fabric tested for softness and durability
- Wide Selection: Solids, prints, brushed varieties, and multiple gauges
- Better Prices: Competitive pricing on quality waffle fabric by the yard
- Expert Support: Our team can help with fabric selection and project planning
- Customer Reviews: Real reviews from real sewists
- Regular Restocks: Popular waffle fabrics restocked frequently
Shop our full collection of waffle fabric and thermal fabric by the yard and create your next cozy project today!
Questions about waffle fabric or thermal fabric? Contact us—we're here to help!
