How Is Cotton Corduroy Made (And Why It’s Totally Worth the Hype)

First things first: What is corduroy?

Corduroy is a woven fabric—usually made from cotton—that features a unique ribbed texture. These ribs (or "wales" if we’re getting technical) are what give it that classic ridged look and super cozy feel.

The more wales per inch, the finer the texture. So your chunky cord tote with wider ribs? That’s low-wale corduroy—laidback, casual, very “I effortlessly thrifted this in the ‘90s” energy. Finer wale? Think polished, slightly preppy, perfect for something a little smaller or more structured 

How cotton corduroy is made: From flat to fabulous

1. It starts with cotton
   Just good old 100% cotton yarn. It’s spun, dyed (often before weaving), and prepped for weaving

2. Weaving magic
   Corduroy is made using a special weaving technique called a “pile weave”—which basically means there are extra sets of fibers woven into the base fabric. These extra threads form loops on the surface.

3. Time for a haircut (yes, really)
   Those surface loops are then carefully sliced to create the velvety cords (aka the wales). It’s like giving the fabric a precision trim that turns it into the soft, tactile dream we all love.

4. Brushing and finishing
   Once cut, the fabric is brushed to lift the nap (that's the soft, fuzzy surface), giving it that smooth, strokeable finish. It's then washed, treated, and sometimes garment-dyed for even more texture and depth.

Why we love cotton corduroy

1. Durability that doesn’t quit

Cotton corduroy is strong and resilient—so that cord bag you use daily to carry your life? It’s in it for the long haul.

2. Softness you actually look forward to

Unlike some fabrics that get scratchy or stiff, corduroy gets softer the more you love it (kind of like you, right?)

3. Breathable and natural

Because it’s cotton, it lets your stuff breathe. No more weird bag sweat (yes, it’s a thing). Plus, natural fibers = better for the planet. Win-win

4. Seriously versatile

Corduroy doesn’t just look good on pants. A structured cord tote can dress up your grocery run. A slouchy cord bag screams “cool but collected.”  Perfect for brunch dates, farmer’s markets, or just making your errands look stylish

5. It's Machine Washable

Forget about the banana you threw in your bag for uni? Or maybe you took it to the beach and the kids filled it with shells and sand to bring home? Not to worry - throw it straight in the wash, hook it over the line over the clothes horse over night and it'll be ready to go again in the morning

Speaking of corduroy bags you’ll love…

At Jade and May, our cord tote bags are the definition of effortless style meets sustainable substance. Ethically made from all-natural fibre fabrics, they’re designed to carry your essentials (and then some) while still looking cute. Whether you're packing for the market, gym, or just a spontaneous coffee run, a Jade and May cord tote has your back—literally and stylistically

So now you know why we love cord, and our cord bags. From cotton threads to cut loops to cozy ridges—corduroy is all about texture, strength, and timeless style.

Want to see what all the fuss is about? Check out our latest cord bags —your new favorite carry-all is waiting