Flannel is a soft, medium-weight fabric that is used for a wide range of garments, including clothing, blankets, bed sheets, and sleepwear. Flannel was originally made from carded wool or worsted yarn, but nowadays it is more commonly made with cotton, sometimes mixed with silk or synthetic fiber. Flannel can be brushed to create extra softness or remain unbrushed. The brushing process is a mechanical process wherein a fine metal brush rubs the fabric to raise fine fibers from the loosely spun yarns to form a nap on one or both sides. Flannel can be woven with patterns, especially plaid and tartan, and is a favorite fabric for sheets during the winter. Flannel is warm and soft to the touch, making it a perfect fabric to keep you warm and comfortable all winter long. Flannel is easy to clean and care for, and it will get softer as it gets older, meaning it’s a low-maintenance fabric you don’t have to iron, dry clean, or replace very often.