Here we answer the question, what is velour? We highlight some of the best features on this luxury fabric and present inspiration ideas for its use!  In this article, we will not only cover what velour is but also the history behind this elegant fabric.  We will also present some ideas on how to use it as a decorative fabric in your home or apartment!

A decorative bag made of grey velour

A decorative pouch made of grey velour

What is velour?

Velour is a very characterful type of fabric.  It is sometimes referred to as velvet or plush.  However, velour is actually a thin variety of velvet which has a short, soft and fluffy feel.  Most fabrics are created by weaving two threads in a specific way whereas to create velvet, four additional threads form this soft fabric.  They are introduced between two main threads in the form of cut (velvet sheared) or uncut (loop velvet) loops. It is thanks to this process that the material is so soft and pleasant to touch.  It is due to this very specific weaving method, that velvet gets its distinguishable deep gloss appearance which beautifully reflects the light.  The way in which it is produced also explains its name, thanks to the late Greek word hexamitos (velvet) which simply means composed of six threads.

An elegant decorative bag made of black velour

An elegant decorative bag made of black velour

Where does velour come from?

Velour has an extremely elegant, regal look.  It is correct to think of it as associated with royalty because in the past centuries it was used mainly for sewing elaborate clothing such as royal robes.  Although today it is still associated with the splendor of the European monarchy and aristocracy of the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries its roots can be traced back even further.  It actually only arrived in Europe in the 12th century and was created in India.

What is velour used for?

Now you know what velour is, next discover what it is most used for!  One of its many advantages is how very versatile it is.  Heavyweight velour fabrics are quite thick and heavy and are very durable.  For this very reason, it is a popular fabric in the furniture industry.  Velour is often used for upholstery of items such as sofas, poufs and bed headboards.  Quilted velour is particularly popular.  On the other hand, lighter fabrics with a lower weight are often used to make clothes, including underwear.  Velour can be used to create a variety of fashionable, stylish accessories such as velour shoes, bags, head bands and hair bands.

Interior velour

People who are passionate about interior design know perfectly well what velour is and what a fabulous fabric it is.  It is a popular fabric within interior design thanks to its unique character.  This versatile fabric works well in elegant interiors as well as design schemes inspired by vintage glamour, while working equally as well in modern rooms with an industrial look.  Over recent years, many people have turned to velour to introduce an eye-catching, contrasting element in modern loft apartments.

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Using velour accessories to create home decorations

Using even the smallest amount of velour in your interior design scheme can be eye-catching.  When creating your own home decorations, velour pouches can be really useful as they are so versatile!  They work well as decorative flower pot covers as well as in an array of seasonal DIY decorations.  Velour pouches can even be used to create your own stunning DIY Advent calendar, not only will it look beautiful but it will bring a real festive feel to your home.

Bags made of velour material are great for decorative storage of toys

Bags made of velour fabric are great for decorative storage of toys

Even the tiniest velour accessories used in interior design attract attention. When creating home decorations, velour pouches will be very helpful. You can use them in many ways! They are great as decorative flower pot covers, for filing and decorating home creases, and for creating seasonal DIY decorations. Velour pouches used as part of the home Advent calendar look really beautiful and bring home a magical, festive mood.

Other uses for velour bags

Material bags are an attractive and practical alternative to more traditional paper gift bags.  Not only are fabric bags more durable, they also look much more stylish too.  Velour pouches are a popular choice for presenting bottles of alcohol in.  A wine bottle for example fits beautifully in an elongated, 16 x 37cm velour bag.  Using one of these bags can make your gift look sensational.

People frequently use velour pouches to package jewellry. The fabric, associated with elegance and luxury, is a good fit for handmade jewelry.

A red velour pouch for jewellery

A red velour pouch for jewellery

Velour pouches are a great choice when it comes to packaging gifts.  They stand out from the crowd at the same time as looking chic and elegant.  This fabulous fabric is instantly associated with elegance and style.

Alcohol packaged as a gift in a velour bag

Alcohol packaged as a gift in a velour bag

Where to buy velour pouches from

Take a look at our extensive range available on our website. Here, you’ll discover a wide variety of decorative fabric bags, including our popular velour pouches, available in many different fashionable colors.