Abstract: Bi-directional fabrics, fabric composites, ballistically resistant assemblies thereof, and the methods by which they are made. The bi-directional fabrics are comprised of a first set of strong, substantially parallel, unidirectional yarns lying in a first plane; a second set of strong, substantially parallel, unidirectional yarns lying in a second plane above the first plane and arranged transversely to the first set of yarns; and one or more sets of yarns having lower strength and higher elongation interleaved with the strong yarns. The bi-directional articles of the invention provide superior ballistic effectiveness compared to ordinary woven and knitted fabrics but retain the ease of manufacture on conventional looms and knitting machines.