Cotton has always been the favourite fabric in India — whether for daily wear kurtis, office shirts, summer dresses, or even bedsheets. It is breathable, comfortable, and versatile. Among all cotton fabrics available, one that is commonly used by tailors, boutiques, and home sewers is cotton running fabric. If you are wondering what exactly it is, how to judge its quality, and how to choose the right one for your need, this guide will clear all your doubts.
What is Cotton Running Fabric?
The term “running fabric” simply means fabric sold by the metre (or yard), directly from a roll. Unlike ready-made garments, you can buy as much length as you need — be it for a kurta, saree blouse, children’s wear, or even home linen. Cotton running fabric gives you the freedom to customise outfits as per your design.
Types of Cotton Running Fabric
Cotton running fabric comes in several varieties, and each type serves a different purpose:
- Pure Cotton: Soft, breathable, and best for daily wear, especially in Indian summers.
- Poplin Cotton: Slightly thicker, smooth finish, ideal for shirts and uniforms.
- Voile Cotton: Sheer, lightweight, and airy — perfect for dupattas and summer dresses.
- Cambric Cotton: Durable with a fine weave, suitable for kurtis and tunics.
- Blended Cotton: Mixed with polyester or other fibres for wrinkle resistance and longer life.
Understanding GSM in Cotton Fabric
One of the most important things to check while buying fabric is GSM (Grams per Square Metre). It tells you the weight and thickness of the fabric:
- Low GSM (60–90): Very light, transparent, and airy. Best for linings, dupattas, or flowy dresses.
- Medium GSM (100–150): Balanced weight, ideal for kurtis, shirts, skirts, and daily wear.
- High GSM (150+): Thick and strong, good for trousers, jackets, or home furnishings.
The higher the GSM, the denser and heavier the fabric will feel.
Common Uses of Cotton Running Fabric
Cotton running fabric is extremely versatile. Some popular uses include:
- Casual and ethnic wear: Kurtas, salwar suits, blouses, skirts, and dresses.
- Men’s wear: Formal and casual shirts.
- Children’s wear: Soft cotton is gentle on skin and comfortable for kids.
- Home furnishing: Bedsheets, pillow covers, tablecloths, and curtains.
How to Choose the Right Cotton Running Fabric
Here are a few tips to make the right choice while shopping:
- Decide the purpose first — daily wear, office wear, festive, or home use.
- Always check the GSM and thickness of the fabric.
- Feel the fabric — authentic cotton should be soft and breathable.
- Prefer pure cotton if you want comfort in summers, or go for blended cotton if you want easy maintenance.
- Buy from trusted sellers to ensure quality and authenticity.
Cotton running fabric is one of the most reliable and versatile choices for Indian households. From stylish kurtis to simple shirts, from bedsheets to dresses, the possibilities are endless. By understanding types, GSM, and usage, you can easily pick the right fabric that suits your style and comfort.
✨ At Julu Fabrics, we offer a wide range of cotton running fabrics with authentic quality and beautiful designs. Explore our collection and create outfits that are as unique as you!
