Polyester Pique Fabric by the Yard

What Is Polyester Pique Fabric?

Polyester pique fabric is a knit textile made from 100% polyester fibers, constructed using a double-knit or waffle-like pattern. This unique weave gives the fabric its signature raised texture—an appearance that looks like tiny geometric ridges or honeycombs across the surface. These small, uniform pockets not only add visual interest but also promote breathability by allowing air to flow freely through the fabric.

The result is a material that stays cool and comfortable, even in active or high-temperature settings. Because it's made from polyester, poly pique is inherently strong, resistant to wrinkles, and incredibly durable. Unlike natural piques made from cotton, polyester pique is more resistant to fading, shrinking, and pilling—making it ideal for repeat wash-and-wear scenarios.

Why Designers and Makers Choose Poly Pique

There's a reason why poly pique fabric is the backbone of team uniforms, golf shirts, and athleisure collections. Its slightly structured drape makes garments look clean and sharp while maintaining just enough softness to ensure everyday comfort. Whether you're designing for an athletic team, corporate casual setting, or fashion-forward sportswear, this fabric delivers the crisp silhouette and low-maintenance care that designers value.

Because polyester dries quickly and resists stretching out of shape, it's also a favorite for travel-ready fashion and garments worn in humid or warm conditions. The texture not only adds aesthetic interest, but also helps camouflage minor wrinkles or sweat marks, allowing wearers to look put-together longer without fuss.

When color matters, polyester pique performs beautifully. It accepts dye evenly and holds onto vibrant shades with minimal fading. That's why it's commonly chosen for branded uniforms, school colors, and custom-printed logos that need to stand the test of time.

Types of Polyester Pique Fabrics Available at Mood

Mood Fabrics offers a diverse range of polyester pique fabric by the yard, giving designers and makers plenty of options to suit their specific needs. Our lightweight pique fabrics are perfect for summer polos, breathable tops, or layering pieces. These have excellent moisture-wicking properties and are designed for maximum airflow without sacrificing coverage.

For more structured projects, our mid-weight and heavy pique options offer increased body and drape. These are commonly used in uniforms, team apparel, blazers, and performance jackets where a more tailored appearance is desired. We also carry poly pique with added stretch for enhanced comfort and movement—ideal for fitted garments, tennis dresses, yoga wear, and other active styles. Whether you need a classic solid for timeless design or a bold color for standout appeal, our selection includes everything from neutrals to brights to custom hues.

Common Uses for 100% Polyester Pique

Thanks to its unique texture and reliable performance, 100% polyester pique is used across a wide spectrum of apparel and uniform applications. In everyday fashion, it's best known for polo shirts, which benefit from pique's breathability and structured yet soft hand. Designers also use poly pique for t-shirt dresses, casual tops, and unlined jackets that require both movement and polish. In team and athletic wear, poly pique fabric is often chosen for jerseys, warm-up tops, and practice gear because of its ability to regulate temperature and maintain shape during intense physical activity.

It's also widely used in school uniforms, especially for tops and dresses that need to withstand daily wear and repeated washing. In corporate casualwear, pique polos have become a staple due to their crisp look and low-maintenance care. Beyond clothing, poly pique may also be used in accessories such as headbands, wristbands, or light tote bags where stretch, breathability, and color retention are valued.

Sewing Tips for Polyester Pique

Sewing with polyester pique is relatively straightforward, especially for knit fabric enthusiasts. Because it's a stable knit with a bit of give, it's easier to handle than slippery synthetics or overly stretchy jerseys. However, the textured surface requires some extra care to ensure clean seams and even stitching.

Use a ballpoint or stretch needle—usually size 75/11 or 80/12—to avoid piercing the fibers. Polyester thread is a great match and will offer durability and flexibility. A walking foot can be useful to help feed the fabric evenly, especially on thicker pique styles.

To avoid puckering, adjust your machine tension and stitch length as needed, and always test on a scrap. For hems and seams that maintain stretch, use a zigzag or stretch stitch. You can also stabilize the shoulders and neckline with clear elastic or fusible tape to prevent distortion over time. Poly pique presses well on a low to medium setting, but always use a pressing cloth to prevent shine or melting. For finishing, a serger or twin-needle finish gives a polished, professional look to your activewear or casualwear projects.

Caring for Poly Pique Fabric

One of the standout features of polyester pique fabric is its ease of care. Most styles are machine washable in cool or warm water and can be tumble dried on low. The fabric resists wrinkles naturally, so it typically needs little to no ironing.

Because polyester dries quickly, air drying is also an efficient option, especially for activewear. Avoid bleach or strong fabric softeners, which may break down the fibers or affect moisture-wicking finishes. This fabric holds its shape and color well, even after many wash cycles—making it perfect for uniforms, activewear, and wardrobe staples that demand long-term performance.

Why Buy Polyester Pique from Mood Fabrics?

Mood Fabrics offers one of the most comprehensive selections of polyester pique fabric by the yard, curated by our in-house textile specialists and trusted by fashion designers, costumers, and everyday sewists alike. Each fabric is handpicked for its construction quality, texture, and color clarity. Whether you're ordering a swatch or several yards for full-scale production, you can count on Mood to deliver consistency, performance, and style.

We also offer fast shipping, helpful customer service, and a user-friendly website that makes it easy to filter fabrics by color, stretch, width, and weight. Plus, every purchase earns Mood Points that you can apply to future projects—making Mood Fabrics your go-to source for premium poly pique and beyond.

FAQs