Velvet is a wonderful material and is used in lots of different situations, seen in all different scenarios. Because of how soft it can be and the elegance that the material holds, it’s easily one of the most popular fabrics used in clothing and style throughout the world of design.
However, people tend to wonder whether the velvet they’re using is real.
Looks can be deceiving and the majority of people may have wondered about the true color of velvet, along with the different uses they can get out of the fabric.
We’re here to look into what the original coloring of the fabric is and what the effects are when you change the color.
Where Does Velvet Come From?
Velvet has been around for hundreds of years. It was first mentioned in China during the Song Dynasty, around 960-1279, as a type of silk or satin. The word “velvet” comes from the Latin word velutus meaning “woven”.
The earliest records show that the Chinese were weaving these materials, potentially as far back as approximately 600 A.D. but the European origins of velvet began to take shape during the 14th century.
During this time, the Venetians started weaving their versions of silk fabrics, which were called Vellaveta or Velveeta. They then started creating other similar styles of fabrics such as brocades and damasks.
During the 16th century, velvet became very common among Europeans. As more countries joined together, trade expanded, so did the availability of new products like velvet. Some of the major countries that adopted velvet include France, Spain, Italy, England, Germany, Netherlands, Russia, Poland, Sweden, and many others.
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How Is Velvet Made?
Velvet is made by weaving cotton fibers into threads. These threads are then woven and dyed-through several processes to create the final piece of fabric.
To make velvet, there needs to be a base fabric called a foundation. This can be either pure cotton or a blend of synthetic fibers. After the foundation is created, it’s then prepared to be dyed.
Depending on the end product desired, dyeing can take place before or after the foundation is constructed.
There are two different types of dyes: acid and direct dyes. Acidic dyes work best with natural fibers while direct dyes work better with synthetics.
Once the dyes are applied, the foundation is then washed with water and dry cleaned if necessary. Any excess liquid is then removed.
What Color Is Velvet Originally?
When velvet was first introduced to Europe, it was mostly white. White was considered to be elegant and royalty wore light colors because they thought they would fade over time.
It wasn’t until centuries later that some of the darker colored velvet fabrics started being produced.
Today, four main kinds of velvet are found across the globe. There’s antique velvet, black velvet, cream velvet, and blue velvet. Each of them is made from a slightly different process than the others.
Antique Velvet
This is the oldest form of velvet. Today, most people think that antique velvet falls under the category of dark browns.
Antique velvet was originally made by hand, however, today machine embroidery can also be added.
Black Velvet
Black velvet is one of the darkest forms of velvet that you’ll find. It can range anywhere from charcoal gray to black depending on the manufacturer.
Black velvet is often used for formal events such as weddings and funerals.
Cream Velvet
Cream velvet is a variation of vintage velvets that have not faded over the years. Today, it tends to fall somewhere close to ivory.
Blue Velvet
Blue velvet is another version of vintage velvet that has remained relatively unchanged for decades. Nowadays, it tends to vary between navy blue to cobalt blues.
What Do The Different Colors Of Velvet Mean?
The main difference between each kind of velvet is in the coloring. For example, antique velvet will be dark brown while black velvet will be charcoal gray.
These are just examples of what each type of velvet can look like; other varieties may have a different shade.
Another important thing to note about different kinds of velvet is their weight. If you’re looking into purchasing a particular style of velvet, it’s always good to know how thick it is.
For instance, if something is thin, then it means that it’s going to wear off easily. On the contrary, if something is thicker, then it will last longer.
What Is Red Velvet?
Red velvet is probably one of the more well-known forms of velvet. Although it’s been around for hundreds of years, although, red velvet didn’t become popular until the mid-1800s.
Since then, it hasn’t changed much. The only variations that exist now are in the way in which the velvet is processed.
You might ask yourself why red velvet became so famous. Well, it’s all thanks to the fact that it resembles blood!
That’s exactly why this type of velvet is so appealing. Because red is associated with blood, many feel the need to add it to their clothing.
When Was Red Velvet Most Popular?
We’ve already mentioned that red velvet became popular during the Victorian era. Before that period, no one knew what it looked like.
After seeing the popularity of red velvet, other manufacturers started creating various types of velvet.
As a result, we now get to see different shades of pink, purple, burgundy, etc.
How To Care For Velvet Clothes?
There’s one big mistake that a lot of people make when it comes to caring for velvet clothes. They try to wash it the same way that cotton or silk are washed.
Don’t do that! You should never put your velvet items through a washing machine since this could cause damage.
Instead, treat it like any other delicate fabric. You should spot clean it whenever necessary using a cloth and mild soap instead of detergent.
If you want to keep your velvet item looking new, don’t forget to store it properly. Ideally, you should hang them up inside a closet where they won’t touch anything else.
Also, make sure that you take care of your velvet items by making sure that they aren’t getting too hot or cold.
What Is Velvet Made Of?
Velvet is one of the most expensive fabrics out there. However, the reason behind this is that it takes a great deal of effort to produce. What makes velvet so special is that it consists of two layers.
One side is made of fine thread, like satin, while the other is made of heavy threads, which give it its plush texture.
Velvet has also been known as “velvet” for centuries because it was initially used as soft pillows. Today, we still use it on our bedding, curtains, and even wall coverings.
It was believed that the Romans originally used it to line their walls.
However, as time went on, they began to use it for other purposes. It wasn’t until the 1500s that velvet became more common. This happened after the invention of the brocade.
Types Of Velvet In Clothing And Furniture
There are five types of velvet:
- Broadcloth
- Damask
- Damson
- Serge
- Seersucker
Broadcloth is usually seen in suits and coats. Damask is usually seen on dresses. Damson can be found on gowns, skirts, etc., whereas serge is often seen on men’s suits and coats.
Finally, seersucker is mostly associated with sportswear such as and shorts.
In furniture, velvet can be used for table linens, carpets, draperies, and much more.
When velvet is mentioned, a lot of people will picture a velvet rope, which is used to guard items of high importance, such as art and architecture in museums.
Does Changing The Color Lower The Quality Of A Velvet Fabric?
This question has always puzzled many people. After all, isn’t changing the color supposed to lower the quality of fabric? The coloring process of velvet fabric doesn’t affect either the material or the quality, usually.
The only concern about changing the color would be whether or not it affects the durability and longevity of the fabric. If the colors are changed frequently, then yes, this can lead to fading and yellowing over time.
So if you plan on doing this, make sure that you purchase a good-quality synthetic velvet fabric because the fabric might be less sensitive.
The Benefits Of Velvet Fabrics
One of the main reasons why velvet is becoming increasingly popular nowadays is because it adds an elegant factor to casual attire.
If you’re planning on going out somewhere dressed casually but still want to look stylish, then a simple pair of jeans might not cut it. Invest in some nice pants or leggings, a blazer, and a fitted shirt.
Then add a silk scarf or a velvet tie. Add some accessories such as a pocket square or cufflinks. You’ll look professional!
Because velvet can come in all different sorts of colors, there’s something out there for everyone.
Whether you love the thought of a blue velvet piece of clothing, or you’d rather have a charcoal gray suit, then you’re bound to find a choice that suits you.
Can You Get Multi-Coloured Velvet?
You might have seen those multi-colored velvet pieces from retailers online, right? Well, these fabrics are made up of several shades of velvet. They offer more than just one color; they create a patterned design.
So technically, they’re not multi-colored, more two different types of velvet combined! Because of this, there are lots of different variations that people can find and experiment with.
What Colors Work Well Together?
Blue is a very regal color and works very well with black velvet trim, however, it also complements golden shades too. Similarly, black velvet works well with blue trim to make the actual color of the fabric stand out.
There is a wide range of combinations out there, with lighter variations available too. Red velvet works incredibly well with white, especially when paired with bright red accents.
Black and red work well together too, although, it should be noted that there is no rule dictating what colors you shouldn’t use together.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, velvet’s original color comes in various shades, so you don’t need to worry about choosing the wrong shade. It can complement any type of outfit and style.
Also, the fact that it can be dyed in almost any color means that you can choose whatever color you like best, depending on what’s available for you at the time.
With dates ranging back to ancient times, China and European locations have seen velvet rise through the ranks of fabrics to become one of the most popular materials in the world.
Because of the texture and the range of colors that the materials can be seen velvet truly is a special kind of fabric in clothing and furniture alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get your last-minute velvet questions answered here!
Can Velvet Be Black?
Coming in lots of different shades and colors, velvet is often seen in darker tones like charcoal gray and black. These are very popular throughout the world of furniture and clothing.
What Colors Go Well With Velvet?
When looking for popular velvet colors, you’ll find that the material looks good in most forms. Bright jewel shades are incredible and look really fun in whatever way you want to use them.
What Color Is Velvet Purple?
Velvet colors are usually determined through a color wheel, with violet sitting firmly between blue-violet and red-purple.
There are tones of black in this color, making the shade a lot more ominous than other purples.
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