Three-dimensional Bi2S3 matlike architectures have been synthesized via a seed-assistant hydrothermal synthesis method. The preformed Bi2S3 seed-layer on the substrate is crucial for the formation of the matlike architecture. The formation of the Bi2S3 fabric structure is via the splitting crystal growth mechanism of the preformed Bi2S3 nanosheets instead of through a topotactic transformation process of intermediate compound. The phase structures and morphologies of the Bi2S3 products were characterized by XRD, FESEM, and TEM. The formation process for Bi2S3 matlike architecture is investigated and discussed. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.