July 15 2025

New Range... Bedford Cord
Bedford Cord is a durable woven fabric featuring lengthwise ribs, similar to corduroy, but without the plush pile.
Unlike corduroy, which uses a raised velvet pile (wales), Bedford Cord builds its texture directly through weaving, often using “stuffer” yarns in the weft to accentuate the ribs.
8 Shades available!
🧵 Key Characteristics
- Durability: Strong and hard-wearing, intended for outerwear, trousers, upholstery, and workwear.
- Texture: Features a ribbed pattern akin to fine corduroy—often tight, but can vary in width.
- Materials: Typically cotton, sometimes cotton–wool blends; ideal for strength and structure.
🏷️ Origins & Naming
- The name comes from New Bedford, Massachusetts—a prominent 19th-century textile hub.
- Occasionally called “jungle cloth” in water-repellent cotton versions used in U.S. Navy flight jackets in the early 20th century.
📏 Typical Uses
- Garments: Pants (often referred to as “Bedfords”), overalls, jackets, and structured shirts.
- Home goods: Upholstery, drapery; valued for its sturdiness on sofas and chairs.
🧼 Care & Maintenance
- Wrinkle resistance: The ribbed structure naturally resists creasing Cotton.
- Cleaning: Most cotton Bedford cord is machine-washable in cold water; tumble-drying can soften ribs. Avoid aggressive ironing to maintain texture.
📌 Bedford Cord vs Corduroy
Feature | Bedford Cord | Corduroy |
Surface texture | Woven-in ribs, no plush pile | Raised velvet-like pile (wales) |
Feel | Firm, crisp, structured | Plush, soft to touch |
Best for | Durable trousers, outerwear, upholstery | Casual wear, jackets, soft home furnishings |
Bedford cord is much more robust and utilitarian compared to corduroy—which is softer and more decorative.
✨ Is It Right For Me?
Go for Bedford cord if you need a durable, textured fabric for trousers, jackets, or furniture that holds structure well.
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