| Dimension | Velvet | Satin |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Longer pile, more visual depth. Can shed and catch on fine settings. | Smooth, friction-free face. Will not snag or catch on contents. |
| Colour behaviour | Shifts with pile direction and lighting — approve on a physical swatch with the nap running production direction. | Stable regardless of angle, but high-gloss finishes show handling marks more readily. |
| Decoration | Takes foil and deboss well; very fine line work can sink into the pile. | Takes foil and deboss well; holds fine detail more reliably than a pile fabric. |
| Transit | Pile can flatten under compression in bulk cartons — check recovery at sampling. | Does not crush, but a bright or pale colour shows soiling and dye transfer more visibly. |
| Typical use | Presentation and gifting where depth of colour matters — jewelry, watch and gift pouches. | Where contents must not snag — wig, hair-extension and lingerie pouches — or where a flat, reflective finish is wanted. |