Abstract: The forming mechanisms of woven fabrics that near net shape forming directly on the machine or compositing in a mold are discussed, and the mechanical changes of woven fabrics are analyzed in the process of forming three-dimensional surface. The four classic methods which used to evaluate the formability of woven fabrics are put forward. The scope and principles of four evaluation methods, along with the current advantages are investigated. It is expected that this paper is beneficial to the evaluation of woven formability.