Fabric with a sheen, why some fabrics turn shiny

Short answer: A sheen in fabric can come from the fibre, from the way the fabric is woven or knitted, and from a finish. Some fabrics also turn shiny from wear, heat and ironing. A sheen is not bad in itself, but if it is unwanted, you can often avoid it with a little care.

What a sheen in fabric actually is

A sheen appears when light is reflected from the surface of the fabric. If the surface is smooth and even, it mirrors more light, and the fabric looks shiny. If it is rough and matt, the light is scattered in many directions. That is why some fabrics look matt and others look glossy.

The shape of the fibre

Some fibres are naturally smooth and long, and they give fabrics with more sheen. Look at the range for women, where the fabric is viscose from bamboo, a smooth cellulose fibre. Many find the surface soft and calm, but how much sheen you see depends on the knit and the colour.

Weaving and knitting

The way the threads lie has a big effect on the sheen. If the threads are laid so that long surfaces face upward, the fabric mirrors more light. That is why satin shines more than a coarse knit. Dense, smooth constructions look shinier than open, textured ones.

The yarn

How fine and smooth the yarn is also affects how much the fabric shines. A fine yarn often gives a smoother surface than a coarse one. Yarn that is twisted tightly can look shinier than loose yarn, because the surface becomes more even.

Finishing

Some fabrics get a finish that makes the surface smoother, for example by pressing or smoothing it. That gives more sheen. Others are treated so they become more matt. It does not always say so on the label, so it is often something you only notice by looking at and feeling the fabric.

When fabrics turn shiny from wear

Some fabrics become shiny where they are rubbed often, for example at the elbows, hips and back. The fibres are pressed flat, and the surface reflects more light. This is common and can happen with many types of fabric, especially dark colours. Swap between several pieces to spread the wear.

Ironing and heat

Heat and pressure from an iron can make the fabric shiny, especially in dark colours. So iron on the reverse side and at a low temperature, if the label allows ironing. A thin cloth in between can help. Viscose reacts to heat, so avoid high heat and pressure if you are unsure.

How to avoid shiny patches

Wash and dry gently, and turn the clothes inside out so the surface wears less. Iron on the reverse side at low heat, and avoid rubbing stains hard. Look at bamboo clothing for women and bamboo tops for women, and follow the care label in each piece, so the surface stays nice.

In short, sheen in fabric

Sheen comes from the fibre, construction, yarn and finish, but also from wear and heat. Protect the surface by washing and ironing carefully, and choose by your own taste. Then you know why a fabric shines, and what you can do if you do not want that.

Frequently asked questions

Why does a fabric turn shiny?

It happens when the surface is smooth, so light is reflected. Fibre, construction, yarn and finish affect the sheen, and wear and heat can also make fabric shiny.

Can I avoid shiny patches?

Often yes. Wash and dry gently, turn the clothes inside out, and iron on the reverse side at low heat if the label allows it.

Is a sheen a bad thing?

No, a sheen is not bad in itself. It is about what you prefer and what the fabric will be used for.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.