Types Of Tulle Fabric

The main types are silk, nylon, polyester, and cotton. Silk tulle is soft and elegant. Nylon is strong and flexible. Polyester is stiff and holds shape. Cotton has a soft, natural feel. Other types include illusion, crystal, and hard net for specific uses.

Customers often feel lost when shopping for tulle fabric online. Terms like “illusion tulle” or “soft net” might sound helpful, but they often lack the context buyers need. As a result, without a clear idea of how each type feels or behaves, it’s easy to end up with something too stiff, too sheer, or completely wrong for the project.

In fact, a recent research reveals that unclear or incomplete product information causes shoppers to abandon their carts 70.19% of the time.

If that many buyers are backing out, how many sales are quietly slipping away because people can’t tell what they’re actually getting?

What Is Tulle Fabric?

Tulle is a lightweight, sheer cloth with a net-like texture, typically made from silk, nylon, polyester, or rayon. This delicate material is often used for bridal veils, tutus, and other garments that need a light, airy look. Soft tulle fabric is especially popular for veils and gowns because of its smooth drape. 

For more structure, thick tulle works well in costumes or layered skirts. Beyond fashion, tulle cloth is also used for event styling, adding a soft, elegant touch to backdrops, tables, and venue décor.

Common Types of Tulle

Tulle comes in many forms. The different types of tulle fabric have their own texture, weight, and purpose. Some suit clothing. Others are better for crafts, décor, or accessories. Understanding how each type behaves helps you choose the right one for your project.

Tulle Fabric Comparison Table

Silk Tulle

Silk tulle is the softest and most luxurious type. It moves beautifully, feels smooth to the touch, and has a fine, matte finish. 

Because of that, it’s often used in high-end bridal veils, evening gowns, and couture pieces. It doesn’t hold shape well, so it works best in flowing designs. Silk tulle also costs more than other options, but if the goal is softness and elegance, it’s hard to beat.

Nylon Tulle

Nylon tulle is more durable and flexible. It feels slightly firmer than silk but still has a nice drape. You’ll see this in costumes, tutus, and layered skirts where volume matters. It handles wear better than natural fibers and holds its shape after washing. It's also easier to find in bold colors and prints, which makes it a favorite in party outfits and decorations.

Polyester Tulle

This is one of the stiffest types. Polyester tulle adds volume fast, which makes it useful for décor projects like bows, backdrops, table skirts, and displays. You can also use it in skirts that need more structure. It's stronger than cotton and silk, so it holds up better when the fabric needs to stay in place or support weight. This tulle is often labeled as “net fabric” in craft stores.

Cotton Tulle

Cotton tulle has a soft, natural look that feels different from synthetic versions. It’s breathable, slightly textured, and less shiny. This gives it a vintage or handmade quality that works well in delicate dresses, trims, or accessories. 

It’s also good for people who want to avoid synthetic fibers. However, cotton tulle doesn’t stretch and can fray more easily, so it’s not the best choice for garments that need to be strong or flexible.

Specialty Types of Tulle

Not all tulles fit into the main categories. Some are made for very specific effects or purposes.

• Illusion Tulle - This is extremely fine and sheer. It blends into the skin when used in necklines, sleeves, or lightweight veils. Illusion tulle is popular in wedding fashion and formalwear when the fabric needs to be almost invisible.
• Crystal Tulle - Crystal tulle has a subtle shine that catches the light. It adds a soft shimmer to dresses and overlays. Designers use it to give a little glow without adding sequins or beads.
• Hard Net Tulle - This tulle is thick and stiff. It doesn’t drape much but holds a strong shape, which makes it useful in petticoats, structured tutus, or theatrical costumes. Hard net is less comfortable on the skin but works when the design needs volume or stiffness.

What Are the Uses of Tulle Fabric?

Tulle can be found in many creative and practical applications. It’s lightweight, easy to shape, and adds texture without bulk. Here are four common ways it’s used:

1. Wedding Veils and Gowns

Tulle is a classic choice for bridal wear. It creates a soft, airy look that works well in veils, layered skirts, and sheer overlays. Designers often use it to add volume while keeping the fabric light and elegant.

2. Costumes and Dancewear

You’ll often see tulle in ballet tutus and stage costumes. It’s easy to layer and holds its shape, which helps bring movement and drama to performance pieces.

3. Decorations and Event Styling

Tulle is popular for decorating tables, wrapping chairs, or adding texture to photo backdrops. It brings a soft, finished look to weddings, parties, and other events.

4. Crafts and DIY Projects

Many use tulle in handmade projects like bows, gift wrap, hairpieces, and wreaths. It’s simple to cut and shape, which makes it a go-to for creative work.

Tulle Comes in More Than One Flavor

Before reaching for that first roll of sheer tulle fabric, take a closer look. The different types of tulle fabric each behave in their own way. A thick tulle skirt needs structure. A bridal veil calls for something light and floaty. Pick the wrong type, and your whole project can fall flat.

Many shoppers get stuck here. It happens more often than you think. That’s why BBCrafts makes it easier. They offer cheap tulle in bulk, floral sprays, ribbons, and organza ribbon to match any theme or craft.

Choosing fabric without knowing how it feels or flows is like painting without checking the color. You could end up with something too stiff, too shiny, or not what you pictured. Before you cut or click “buy,” stop and ask what your project really needs.

Get the right material, and the results will speak for themselves.

FAQs

What is soft tulle fabric best used for?

Soft tulle fabric is ideal for bridal veils, gowns, and baby clothes. It drapes well, feels smooth on the skin, and creates a light, airy look.

How is thick tulle different from other types of tulle fabric?

Thick tulle is stiffer and holds its shape better than softer varieties. It’s often used in petticoats, structured skirts, and costumes that need volume.

Where can I buy cheap tulle in bulk?

You can find cheap tulle, including soft and thick options, at BBCrafts. They offer a wide range of tulle cloth, ribbons, and decorative supplies for events and crafts.

What are the main types of tulle fabric?

The main types include silk, nylon, polyester, cotton, and specialty tulles like illusion and crystal. Each has a different texture, stiffness, and best use depending on your project.