dacron vs polyester

Shopping Dacron vs polyester and wondering which to buy? The short answer is that they are the same family of fiber. Dacron is a long-standing trade name for polyester, specifically polyethylene terephthalate (PET). It has been around since the 1950s and became so well known that many sewists still use the name for certain polyester products.

Is Dacron Polyester?

Yes. Every Dacron fabric is polyester, but not every polyester is sold as Dacron. The name is most often attached to specific forms of the fiber, so the label tends to signal how a material is used rather than a different chemistry.

Where You'll See the Dacron Name

• Batting and upholstery wrap: Lofty polyester fill that softens foam cushions and furniture edges.
• Sailcloth: Tightly woven polyester valued for low stretch and UV tolerance.
• Apparel and home fabrics: Wrinkle-resistant weaves and blends.

What to Look For

Rather than focusing on the label, compare weight, weave, loft, and finish to your project. Heavier, firmly woven cloth suits sails and covers, while airy batting works best for cushions and quilts. Browse the polyester fabrics and batting below to find the right match for your next project.