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Nap Definition as Related to Fabric

By Debbie Colgrove, About.com

Definition: A fabric with nap is one what usually has a pile and will look different shades from different angles. Velvet and velour fabric are prime examples of fabric with nap.
When cutting out fabric the with nap and the without nap directions are usually different to allow all of the with nap pattern pieces to lie in the same direction.
Fabric with a one way design will also use the with nap cutting layout.
Pronunciation: n- ah- p
Also Known As: with nap, without nap
Examples: If a velvet gown is not cut out with all the pattern pieces going in the same direction, the dress will look like it was made with two different color fabric.

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