After you’ve been sewing a while, you might be tempted to explore different types of fabrics. One thing to consider is the direction or nap of a fabric.
The pile or texture is created in the weaving process of the fabric. Nap can refer to any fabric that has a directional appearance or texture – that is, the fabric looks different depending on which way it is held up or rubbed.
The color and texture of a napped fabric can appear different depending on the direction of the nap. It is often lighter and shiny with the nap, and matte and darker against the nap.
Positioning fabric pieces together can be tricky for fabric with nap. It can slide easily in one direction and grip like Velcro in the other, making it difficult to get seams to line up.