Pilling

Pilling is the little balls of tangled fiber that form where a fabric rubs against itself or a bag strap. It is driven by short, loose fibers and friction, so it hits softer, shorter-staple, or loosely spun materials hardest — some merino and cotton-synthetic blends pill readily; long-staple cotton, tightly twisted yarns, and higher-quality wools resist it better. Pilling is usually cosmetic and manageable with a fabric comb or shaver, and early pilling often stops once loose fibers shed. It is worth reading consensus on before buying knitwear, because heavy, persistent pilling is a real mark against a piece.