fabric Flannel
Flannel originated in the British Isles where it was created to insulate people from cold, wet weather. It was originally made by hand-carding or brushing wool on both sides. Carding breaks up the individual fibres and pulls them into a tight web for a texture soft enough to be worn against the skin, yet dense enough to retain heat and repel damp conditions.
fabric Flannel
Flannel is a durable yet soft work-wear fabric that has been around for hundreds of years. It was made to insulate people from cold, wet weather – and its comfort and versatility have made it a classic.
Resourceful Welsh or Scottish people (its exact origins are unknown) created flannel as an inexpensive way to endure the elements. It was made by hand-carding or brushing wool fabrics on both sides. Carding breaks up the individual fibres and pulls them into a tight web for a texture soft enough to be worn against the skin, yet dense enough to retain heat and repel damp conditions.
When mass production made flannel cheap and readily available, it soared in popularity in Europe and the U.S. Soon flannel – particularly in plaid – became the rugged symbol of working men and women.