Plain Weave

Plain weave is the simplest interlacing of warp and weft: each weft pick passes over one warp end and under the next, reversing on the following row. It is the oldest and most common weave structure, used in everything from muslin to canvas. Because every thread binds at every intersection, plain weave gives the firmest, most stable cloth a given yarn can make, at the cost of the drape and sheen that come from longer floats.

Illustration: ancient Egyptian weavers at horizontal ground looms seen from above and at a distance, webs of linen, a courtyard with palms — Ancient Egyptian weavers at horizontal ground looms seen from above and at a distance, webs of linen, a courtyard with palms.

Named for

Named plainly: the simplest possible interlacing. Also called tabby weave, possibly after the striped silk of the Attabiyah quarter of Baghdad.

Common questions

What is Plain Weave made of?: Plain weave is the simplest interlacing of warp and weft: each weft pick passes over one warp end and under the next, reversing on the following row. It is traditionally made of cotton, linen, wool, or silk.
What is Plain Weave named after?: Named plainly: the simplest possible interlacing. Also called tabby weave, possibly after the striped silk of the Attabiyah quarter of Baghdad.