Have you ever looked at the tags on your clothing and wondered what exactly those fibers are? Below we break down some of the most commonly found fabrics so you have a better idea of what they are and how they’re made!
Organic fabrics:
Cotton: These fibers grow around the seeds of cotton plants in fluffy puffs meant to aid with seed dispersal. Cotton plants are native to tropical and sub-tropical regions, but have been domesticated elsewhere, including the United States, which remains the world’s largest exporter of cotton goods. It can be used to make terrycloth, denim, corduroy, twill, jersey material, coffee filters, bookbinding, tends, and more.
Silk: Silk is a protein fiber that is woven to create fabric we use, most commonly cultivated from the cocoons of the mulberry silkworm. Silk fibers have a prism-like configuration that refracts light, making the fabric look shiny. Silk fibers have been cultivated for fabric for thousands of years, the earliest examples found in China and dating far back as 3500 BCE.
Synthetic fabrics
Polyester: While there are many different kinds of polyester, the kind found in fabrics usually refers to ‘polyethylene terephthalate’ (PET), a polymer resin used not only in fabric but also in beverage and food containers. It is a combination of both natural and man-made materials. With fabrics, polyester can be woven into thread or yarn, and makes an excellent insulator for carpets, pillows, and upholstery. It can be used alone or blended with other fibers, like cotton.
Nylon: Nylon is a kind of polyamide (polymers made of chemical compounds), and is often used to imitate silk. It’s found not only in pantyhose, but also rope and outdoor clothing. During World War II, nylon was used in the place of silk for parachutes, flak jackets, and tires.
Spandex or Lycra: Known for its elasticity, spandex was invented in 1959 and is an anagram of the word “expands.” It is made up of several different polymers and chemicals that are spun into long, thin threads. In clothing, it is usually blended with cotton or polyester in small amounts to encourage elasticity with a snug fit.
Acrylic: These fibers are made from a lightweight polymer meant to imitate wool or cashmere, and is hypoallergenic. While warm and soft, the fibers are susceptible to static and pilling. You can find them in sweaters, socks, hats, gloves, and scarves. It is very washable and retains color well.
Other fibers:
Rayon: Rayon is neither synthetic nor organic, as it is taken from naturally occurring plants, but then reprocessed into fibers by use of chemicals. It usually has a bright sheen, and so is often used in scarves, suits, lingerie, dresses, upholstery, yarn, and more.
For more info about more fabrics and how they’re made, click here.
Dress Up a Plain Suit
