Details & Finishes

Pilling

Pilling is the formation of small balls of tangled, broken fibers on a fabric's surface, caused by friction during wear and washing. Loose fiber ends work loose, knot together, and cling, leaving a fuzzy, bobbled texture. It's most common on soft knits and looser-spun yarns, on high-rub areas like underarms, cuffs, and where bags rub.

Softer fibers and loosely spun or blended yarns pill more easily, which is why even quality cashmere and merino can bobble. Washing inside out, gentle cycles, and using a fabric shaver help manage it.

Some pilling is normal break-in rather than a defect; tightly spun and higher-twist yarns resist it best. It's a key care consideration for cashmere and merino wool.

Pilling

See also