From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Ripstop (also incorrectly called ripstock and also ribstock) is a woven fabric that has another type of single or double thread woven into it. This is done in various patterns from simple box to diamonds and other shapes. When a run of nylon, cotton or polypropylene fabric is run off a loom without this thread pattern it will rip. But when the extra thread is added to the weave it stops the tear or rip from travelling across or down the fabric.

Contents 1 Ripstop Textures 2 Ripstop uses 3 Other uses 4 External links

It also comes in a massive range of textures ranging from stiff crisp paper like texture to a soft smooth silk like texture. Then there are the heavy duty fabrics with a PVA backing to lightweight waterproof and non waterproof types.

The range of colours seems to be endless, from simple white to fluorescent pink, yellow, orange and green to name a few. Black is one of the hardest colours to get hold of for some reason.

Some are so thin you can see your hand through them, other types are so thick you can make a hammock from them.

It's used to make a wide range of things, from hot air balloons, sails and kites to clothing, dog beds, horse blankets, sewing machine covers, motor cycle covers and sun blinds for gardens to name a few.

Then there's the military uses, these range from parachutes in very light weight ripstop to rip-proof fireproof clothing made from Nomex, in various types of camouflage which are used by the military around the world.

Tents, groundsheets, pole bags, tent bags, sail bags, PE bags, swimming bags, shopping bags, doggy treat bags, nappy (diaper) bags, table coverings, outdoor clothing, cagoules, swimming shorts, running shorts, poi, windsocks, mobiles, flags, banners, car covers, garden furniture covers, awnings, umbrellas, garden sails, yacht sails, windsurfing, kite surfing, garden sun shades, cutting down sun intensity in a greenhouse, protecting plants, garden sacks, trailer covers, picnic rug backing, car boot (trunk) liners, special needs bibs - and lastly (unless someone thinks of another use), a long length can be soaped and used outside as a slide!

• Cameron Hot-Air Balloons - fabric information page - with pictures of rip-stop nylon
• Performance Textiles - parachute fabric manufacturer
• DuPont - protective clothing with ripstop fire-resistant Nomex
• Fabrics-n-Stuff United Kingdom seller of Ripstop Fabrics for Kites, Sails and blinds Pictures of various types of ripstop