Plush Fabric Insights · Part 1
From Short Pile to Ultra-Soft Minky: The Core Fabrics Behind Our Toys
In plush toy manufacturing, fabric is where every story begins. It shapes the toy’s appearance, defines its texture, and ultimately determines its emotional warmth. At Kusibei, we work with a variety of premium plush fabrics — each chosen for its specific purpose in bringing a toy to life. Today, let’s look at four of our most common materials: Short Pile Plush, Soft Minky, Arctic Plush, and Ultra-Soft Minky.
Short Pile Plush (5 mm)
Short Pile Plush features fibers around 5 mm in length.
It has a smooth yet firm texture that helps maintain the toy’s shape and volume.
The directional nap reflects light beautifully, giving animal plushies and cushions a lively, dimensional appearance.
Soft Minky Plush (10 mm)
Soft Minky Plush is known for its silky fiber and medium pile length of about 10 mm. It feels as soft as rabbit fur — smooth, gentle, and slightly elastic. This fabric is ideal for the outer layer of plush toys or large stuffed animals, offering a cozy touch and a luxurious finish.
Arctic Plush (Long Pile)
Arctic Plush has longer fibers (around 12–15 mm) that create a voluminous and fluffy surface. It’s often chosen for winter-themed plush designs or characters that need an extra “fluffy” look. Its density and warmth make it one of the most eye-catching materials in our collection.
Ultra-Soft Minky (1–3 mm)
Ultra-Soft Minky is the most delicate and skin-friendly plush fabric we use. With a pile length of just 1–3 mm, it feels silky smooth to the touch. It’s perfect for baby plush toys and doll faces, where softness and safety are essential. Available in multiple thickness options, it provides a gentle, lifelike texture.
Summary
| Fabric | Pile Length | Touch | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Pile Plush | 5 mm | Smooth, supportive | Animal plushies, cushions |
| Soft Minky Plush | 10 mm | Silky, flexible | Toy bodies, large dolls |
| Arctic Plush | 12–15 mm | Fluffy, voluminous | Winter themes, furry animals |
| Ultra-Soft Minky | 1–3 mm | Silky, skin-like | Doll faces, baby plush |
Next in the Series
In the next article, “Plush Fabric Insights · Part 2”, we’ll explore more structural and decorative materials used in plush production — including Spandex, Nonwoven Fabric, and Embossed Plush. These fabrics play essential roles in internal shaping, design detailing, and surface enhancement.