Characteristics

• Gauze is loosely woven, and it is the loose weave that gives the fabric the delicate and lightweight yet durable properties for which it is known. Gauze is often made with a leno weave -- also known as a doup weave -- which allows air and light to pass through it easily. Gauze is often made from cotton or wool but can also be made of silk, linen or other material. The standard version in solid colors, along with crinkled, stretched and patterned variations, are available for purchase by the yard at most fabric stores.
  
  

Attire

• Gauze's lightweight and breathable nature makes it a popular choice for summer clothing pieces such as tunics, skirts, sundresses and even casual pants. Pieces made of ultra-sheer gauze, like many tunics, are intended for wear over a camisole or other piece of clothing. Men's nightgowns of the past were made of gauze, as are the comfortable, loose-fitting chemises worn by today's women. Various types of sheer decorative scarves are often made of this material.
  
  

Theater

• In theatrical applications, gauze is used to make scrims, or screens made of large painted pieces of fabric lit from different angles. Gauze is a popular fabric choice because of its translucent quality as well as its ability to hold its shape when hung. The material acts like an opaque wall when illuminated from its front. When lit from behind, however, it appears transparent or translucent. Gauze is also utilized as a prop in many theater performances. For example, a scattered bundle of blue gauze may serve as a glimmering sea onstage.
  
  

Medicine

• Gauze is used for many medical purposes. It is chosen over other fabric alternatives because it is highly absorbent and doesn't adhere to wounds. Gauze bandages or sponges are most commonly available to consumers as small squares or in small rolls that can be purchased at any drugstore. Wholesale medical suppliers offer larger rolls of gauze in bulk at discounted prices. At home, gauze is applied with additional bandages or medical tape to cover small wounds. Doctors apply it to dressings after stitching up wounds and performing surgery. Gauze is also used in veterinary practices for the same applications.