Ikat: a method of tie dyeing yarn prior to weaving. May be in warp only (warp ikat), weft only (weft ikat), or both warp & weft (double ikat) .Results in a a blurred pattern effect.

Illusion: a very fine sheer net fabric usually of nylon or silk. Used for veils.

Imberline: a woven fabric with various colored stripes in the warp often separated by gold thread. Used in upholstery, drapery.

Indigo: a type of blue dyestuff originally obtained from the indigo plant but now produced synthetically. Used for denim.

Indigo dyed: refers to a fabric which has been piece dyed with indigo dye.

Indigo & color: refers to yarn dyed fabrics using a combinations of indigo dyed yarns and yarns of other colors together in the design.

Indigo & overprinted: refers to printing done on an indigo denim, indigo chambray, or indigo dyed fabric.

Intarsia: a knit fabric with an inlaid pattern in contrasting color, usually geometric. The design appears on one part of the fabric rather than all over as a jacquard. It is generally engineered to fall on a certain area of the garment.

Interfacing: a fabric, usually a nonwoven, that is meant to be fused or sewn to another to give it body and shape.

Interlock: a double face knit fabric with 1x1 rib on each side. Usually firm and closely knit.

Iridescent: a fabric with a changeable color effect depending on the angle of view and lighting. It is usually the result of weaving with one color in the warp and another in the weft.

Irish lace: Refers to any lace made in Ireland. Most often they are crochet or needlepoint laces.