Ply refers to the number of individual yarns twisted together to form a single thread. A 2-ply yarn consists of two yarns twisted together.
How It Works
- Single ply (1-ply): One yarn strand
- 2-ply: Two yarns twisted together
- 3-ply: Three yarns twisted together
Higher ply generally means stronger, more durable thread.
In Towels
Towel yarn is often 2-ply: - Stronger than single ply - More durable - Better pile retention - Slightly heavier
Single-ply pile may be softer initially but less durable.
Ply vs Quality
Higher ply doesn't automatically mean better: - Quality of base yarn matters more - 2-ply cheap yarn < single-ply premium yarn - Ply is one factor among many
Related Terms
- Thread count: Different measure (threads per area)
- Yarn count: Thickness of yarn
- GSM: Weight per area
Double-Loop vs 2-Ply
Don't confuse: - 2-ply: Yarn construction - Double-loop: Pile construction (two loops per warp thread)
Both terms relate to "double" but mean different things.