Tweed Fabric: History, Types, Weights, and Uses

Harris Tweed originated in Scotland and is considered the most famous tweed fabric.

• It has an open twill weave.
• Rough in texture.
• Tends to be in rich heathered colour tones.
• Typical weight is 15 to 21 oz.

Woven in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides by hand. Genuine Harris tweed is given the Orb Mark: a certification meaning it has been dyed, spun, and handwoven by the islanders of the Outer Hebrides of Scotland in their own homes.

As the name suggests, woven in Donegal, Ireland. Made of wool, sometimes mixed with viscose and cotton.

• Coarse and rugged.
• Has colorful wool flecks or “neps” scattered throughout.
• Typical weight is approximately 7.87 oz to over 19 oz

Donegal tweed gives a more casual feel with its speckled appearance.

Cheviot tweed originated in Britain. The fabric is named after the Cheviot sheep that the wool comes from. Cheviot fiber is coarse and heavy, making the material hard wearing and heavy..

• Heavy and stiff.
• Durable.
• 15oz is a typical weight.

It works best for countries that wear heavyweight clothing: coats and jackets. Used in upholstery & soft furnishings, curtains and kilts due to the fabric properties.

Shetland tweed originated in Scotland. The name of the tweed fabric came from the Shetland Island sheep.

• Rustic feel, but Finer and softer than most tweeds
• Lighter weight - 12 to 14 oz.
• “Fluffy” texture
• porous and breathable.

Shetland tweed jackets have a laid-back feel – the perfect smart-casual companion for chilly weather.

Saxony tweed originated in Germany. Produced from Merino wool giving it a soft pile.

• Softer and lighter than other traditional tweeds.
• Remains Warm and Comfortable.
• Typical weight is around 10-14 oz.

In the past, Saxony tweed was widely used in Germany for sports jackets and suits. A popular option due to the material softness in modern day tailoring.

Moorland Tweed came from weaving houses inspired from the Scottish Highlands and moorland landscapes. The fabric is conceived as a country-suiting tweed to reflect the rugged terrain and subtle natural tones of those regions.

• Woven from 100% worsted wool.
• Uses two-ply yarns to create subtle colour variation.
• Smoother and cleaner than traditional coarse tweeds.
• Medium-to-heavy weight: 430 g per linear metre (13.5 oz).

Moorland Tweed works well for country suits, sports jackets, and jackets.

Sherry Tweed comes from the wool-weaving tradition of the Scottish Borders, especially the historic Tweed Valley — a region long associated with producing robust cloth for estate and outdoor use.

• Constructed from 100% lambswool (virgin wool)
• Uses yarns dyed in multiple colours and blended before weaving
• Cloth weight in standard offerings is about 340–380 g per linear metre (≈ 10–11 oz)
• The weave and wool give it texture, warmth, and good insulation

Sherry Tweed is ideal for jackets, field wear, and outer garments. Best for those who appreciate a classic aesthetic, as well as garments meant for countryside or casual-country settings.