Bouclé is a distinctive textured fabric made using looped, curled or irregular yarns that create its characteristic knobbly surface. The name comes from the French word for “curled”, and unlike the fluffy, uniform pile of teddy fabric, bouclé has a more defined and varied texture — giving garments a stylish, sophisticated finish.

If you want your handmade piece to combine beautiful texture with a smart, contemporary look, bouclé is an excellent choice.

Why Choose Bouclé?

• Distinctive looped and curled texture
• Adds depth and interest to simple designs
• Warm and comfortable
• Creates a stylish, elevated finish

Perfect For

✔ Coats
✔ Jackets
✔ Gilets
✔ Skirts
✔ Bags and accessories
✔ Cushions and home projects

Bouclé is ideal for projects where texture becomes part of the design, creating statement pieces without the need for complicated detailing.

Sewing Notes

Bouclé can vary considerably in construction, but its textured yarns benefit from careful handling.

• Use a needle appropriate to the weight and backing
• Finish raw edges carefully as loosely woven bouclé can fray
• Cut all pieces in the same direction where the fabric has a visible nap
• Press gently from the reverse to avoid flattening the texture

It’s a fantastic fabric for sewists who want to create beautifully textured garments with an elevated, ready-to-wear look.

Bouclé vs Teddy

Bouclé has a looped, curled and more irregular surface texture, while teddy has a softer, fluffier and more uniform pile. Bouclé generally gives a garment a smarter, more sophisticated appearance, while teddy creates a cosier, more relaxed look. Both are excellent for jackets and outerwear — the choice is really about the finish you want to achieve.

The Finish You’re After

If you’re looking for rich texture, warmth and a sophisticated statement finish, bouclé adds beautiful character to even the simplest of makes.