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pile

Pile refers to loops or tufts of yarns or fibers that are incorporated into a fabric to create a textured surface. The pile can be cut in various ways to create different effects, such as brushing it in one direction. Garment pieces made from fabrics with pile must be cut in the same direction as the pile, otherwise, the reflection of light may cause the appearance of color variations. Pile can be found on fabrics that have an allover textured surface or limited areas with pile designs, known as cut velvets. It is important to distinguish pile from nap, which refers to fiber ends brushed up on the surface of a fabric.