Flannel FAQ
Everything you need to know about flannel
From classic flannel shirts to matching flannel pajamas to warm plaid blankets, learn more about our favorite fabric at The Vermont Flannel Co.™
What is flannel?
Flannel is moisture-wicking fabric that can be woven from natural cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers. Ours is made from high-quality, 100% organic cotton and is perfect for layering in chilly weather.
Flannel fabric is known for being versatile, warm, relaxed, and soft to the touch. By brushing (also called napping) the woven fabric, it creates tiny air pockets, adding extra insulation and softness to the material.
The Vermont Flannel Company uses custom, double-brushed flannel — fabric that’s brushed an unreasonable amount of times on each side to ensure the ultimate softness. This makes it the coziest flannel possible. Our authentic flannel collection is hand-cut and sewn in the USA and made for both durability and comfort.
Is flannel the same as plaid or tartan?
No, it’s not always the same. Flannel is a fabric or material used to make year-round apparel, especially cold-weather clothing and accessories. Flannel is often woven into solid, plaid, tartan, or checkered patterns. However, don’t be fooled; the words “plaid” and “tartan” don’t always mean it’s made of warm, authentic flannel fabric.
Who made flannel shirts popular?
Whether you have a rugged, outdoorsy style or prefer to stay cozy inside, flannel symbolizes warmth and comfort. According to MasterClass, flannel traces back to the late 17th century in Wales. Seeking warmth in the cool climate, Welsh textile workers created flannel, using leftover sheep’s wool. It quickly became popular in outdoor workwear for farmers, loggers, lumberjacks, and the working class.
Flannel grew in popularity in the U.S. during World War I when soldiers were provided a flannel layer as a part of their uniforms. Later, it was a key fashion statement in the 90s grunge era and the hipster scene. For the same reasons it was invented, it also became a popular material used in outdoor gear and camping clothes. Today, flannel is for everyone, and The Vermont Flannel Co. offers some of the best flannels for you and your family.
Is The Vermont Flannel Company authentic?
We’re the real deal. Our team hand-cuts and sews everything using the finest double-brushed organic cotton flannel. We pay attention to the details and pride ourselves on craftsmanship. If you’re looking for genuine, high-quality flannel clothing and accessories, The Vermont Flannel Co. does it right.
What are Vermont Flannel Co. products made of?
With a few exceptions, almost all of our flannel fabric is custom-made from the finest European, 100% organic cotton. This long-staple cotton is also certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) for world-leading environmental and social principles.
Our flannels are yarn-dyed for lasting color and brushed beyond reason on both sides to make it the softest, coziest fabric possible. It’s then hand-cut and sewn by our U.S. team into outdoor apparel, sleepwear, loungewear, blankets, and other home decor.
Why is The Vermont Flannel Company flannel so soft?
We like to think our flannel products, handcrafted in America, are the softest flannels on earth. We make our flannel shirts, pajamas and blankets as cozy as possible by brushing the fabric beyond reason. This makes it softer and warmer.
The fabric brushing process, mastered over centuries by artisans, fluffs up the downy surface, or “nap” of the fabric, creating tiny pockets of air. These pillows of air insulate and effectively hold in body heat. The tight weave of the yarn also has a warming effect. Cuddle up and stay comfortable with our high-quality, ultra-soft fabrics.
Why is the Vermont Flannel Company one of the best U.S. flannel brands?
Our superior quality, attention to detail, and authentic craftsmanship makes The Vermont Flannel Co. a top American flannel company.
Here’s just a few reasons why we’re a trusted flannel brand:
- We start with the finest 100% cotton that’s GOTS-certified.
- Our flannel is yarn-dyed for lasting color, wash after wash.
- Our long-staple cotton fabric is woven tighter for durability and to minimize shrinkage.
- We then brush it beyond reason for the ultimate softness.
- Each piece is cut by hand for quality and precision.
- We focus on the details, matching stripes the old-fashioned way.
- Our team takes pride in their beautiful stitching with seams that won't unravel.
- The pockets on our flannel clothing are reinforced and extra-strong.
- All Vermont Flannel Co. products are manufactured in the USA.
- We take pride in our customer service and are committed to our customers’ happiness and comfort.
- We stand behind our high-quality craftsmanship. Check out Our quality guarantee, and see our generous return policy.
Does Vermont Flannel Co. clothing shrink?
Our 100% cotton flannel fabric is woven tightly to minimize shrinking (typically ¼” or less). Wash after wash, our colors stay true and provide the same comfortable fit. Our easy-care flannel shirts are machine washable. Use cool water, and dry with low heat or carefully hang dry.
Can you wash Vermont Flannel Co. blankets?
Our flannel blankets are machine washable. Handcrafted with 100% organic cotton (and some with an anti-pill fleece backing), our plaid and checkered blankets are easy to clean. Simply wash in cool water and use the low-heat dryer setting.
Do you sell Vermont Flannel Co. fabric by the yard?
Quilters, fiber artists, DIYers, and crafters, rejoice! We sell 100% organic cotton flannel by the yard to craft your own handmade creations. Buy our fine flannel fabric in bulk and save even more. Browse patterns in our flannel fabric shop.
We also offer bulk flannel fabric scraps and a quilt-in-a-box kit with pre-cut fabric squares. Due to our small-batch production, these items do sell out quickly. See if these items are in stock today.
Does flannel make a great gift?
Flannel is fun for everyone! Give the gift of comfort and warmth for holidays, birthdays, weddings, baby showers, and corporate gifts. The Vermont Flannel Company offers many great gift ideas. Get tips for gifting flannel shirts. [LINK TO NEW ARTICLE]
Ready to shop our quality flannel clothing and gifts?
Soft and cozy, yet rugged and durable, browse our colorful variety of products: