The Differences in Chiffon & Organza
- While both fabrics are sheer, the structure of each results in two very different fabrics. Organza is composed of tightly twisted fibers, resulting in a stiff yet flexible fabric that holds shape easily. Chiffon is made by alternating loosely and tightly woven strands of thread. This results in a fabric with a fluid drape.
- Use chiffon for overlays and accents in sewing projects. A dress made entirely out of chiffon would be transparent. The slippery texture of the fabric makes chiffon difficult to sew. Chiffon does make lovely scarves, given its fluidity and drape. The stiffness of organza lends itself well to dressmaking, but the sheerness of organza requires that the dress be lined. Organza is easy to embroider, and many formal saris are made from organza with elaborate embroidery and beadwork.
- Both chiffon and organza should be dry cleaned to preserve the fabric's integrity, but chiffon can be washed in cold water on the gentlest cycle of your washing machine. Place the garment in a net or mesh bag to protect it from catching on the machine during cleaning. Flat dry chiffon garments to prevent them from stretching. While there is division over whether or not organza can be washed at home, all sources do agree that if it is, it must be washed in cold water and allowed to drip dry.
- Per yard, organza is more expensive than chiffon. As of 2011, one yard of white chiffon costs $3.95, while a yard of white organza starts at $5 and can quickly climb higher, especially if the fabric is embellished.
