What is Oxford Cloth?

As a durable option, Oxford cloth has been a staple of clothing that is now making its way into other types of applications. Here is some background into the creation of this cloth, as well as examples of how it can be used.

Originally made of only cotton, Oxford cloth utilizes a warp that that combines two fine filaments that are woven together to create a basket weave pattern that is sturdy but still allows the fabric to breathe. In fact, the material gets its name from the term that defines the process, which is referred to as the Oxford weave.

The spin of the filaments results in a feel that is smooth to the touch without being silky. Today, Oxford fabric is not only produced from cotton. Polyester and rayon may be introduced to make a synthetic blend that is ideal for casual shirts, the traditional button down Oxford shirts that are the ideal middle ground between casual and dressy, walking shorts, and a number of other casual wear items.

Along with long and short sleeved shirts, Oxford cloth has begun to make an impact around the home as well. As a sturdy solution, it is an ideal fabric to use for window treatments in children’s rooms, as well as duvet covers, pillow shams, and wall hangings. It can also be an inexpensive material to use in the construction of screen panels that will fit over a wooden frame. Machine washable, this fabric is easy to maintain, and tends to hold its shape. The result is household items that require little or no ironing after going through the laundry process.

One innovative use of Oxford cloth today is for wall coverings. The light weave of the fabric makes it ideal for absorbing liquid starch. Using sections of fabric that have been soaked in the starch, apply the sections to the clean wall and smooth with a wallpaper brush. What makes this cloth so attractive is that the material can be purchased in bulk and easily removed when a change is desired. Persons who are renting or leasing a living space can use it as a solution to introducing color into a room that is not permanent. The material will simply pull off the walls easily, and a quick wash will remove all traces of the starch residue.