Tarlatan is a thin, stiff, open-weave fabric - like a starched muslin - used for interfacing, dust covers, and theatrical costumes.
What Tarlatan Is
Tarlatan is a plain-weave fabric, usually cotton, that is heavily sized (starched) to make it stiff while remaining sheer. Think of it as muslin's rigid cousin: where muslin is soft and drapable, tarlatan holds its shape. The open weave keeps it lightweight and breathable even with the heavy sizing.
Uses
- Interfacing and interlining in tailoring - traditional tailors use tarlatan to add body to lapels, collars, and structured areas
- Dust covers and garment bags - the stiff open weave protects while allowing air circulation
- Theater and costume construction - milliners and costumers use it for foundations, hat forms, and structural underpinnings
Tarlatan vs Muslin
Both start as plain-weave cotton, but they diverge at finishing: muslin is left soft for draping, pattern testing, and linings, while tarlatan is starched stiff for structure. If you need the fabric to stand up on its own, you want tarlatan; if you need it to drape, you want muslin.
FAQs
- Is tarlatan washable?
- The sizing washes out - it's meant for structure, not laundering. Wash it and it becomes soft like muslin.
- Can I use tarlatan as interfacing?
- Yes - it's a traditional tailoring interlining, especially in bespoke work.
- Where do I buy tarlatan?
- Theatrical supply houses and specialty fabric stores; it's a niche product.
Glossary: see the full fashion glossary for more apparel industry terms.