Short answer: RFD means ready for dyeing. RFD fabric has been scoured, and often bleached, so it absorbs dye and print evenly. Brands and printers buy RFD when they want to dye or print to their own colours and designs.
Greige, PFD, RFD and dyed fabric
- Greige: fabric straight off the loom or knitting machine, with natural oils, sizing and impurities still present.
- PFD (prepared for dyeing) / RFD (ready for dyeing): greige fabric that has been cleaned and prepared so colour takes evenly. The terms are often used interchangeably.
- Dyed or printed: fabric that has already been coloured.
Why brands buy RFD
- Dye small batches in exact brand colours
- Garment-dye or tie-dye finished pieces
- Digital print short runs without holding dyed stock
- Keep flexibility when colour decisions come late
What to check in RFD fabric
- Absorbency and whiteness are even across the roll
- No optical brightener if you need pastel shades or certain prints
- Shrinkage after wash is known, so you can plan patterns
FAQ
Can any fabric be RFD?
Most cotton, viscose, modal and blended knits and wovens can be supplied RFD. Polyester is usually printed by sublimation instead of dyed after purchase.
Is RFD cheaper than dyed fabric?
The fabric itself costs less, but you pay for dyeing or printing afterwards.
Dynamic Knitfabs supplies RFD knits, satin, chiffon, georgette and crepe. See our RFD fabrics.