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Natural and Synthetic Materials

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Natural and Synthetic Materials
Textiles are made up from natural or man-made fibres or a combination of both. “Fibres are thin, hair-like structures” (Blair, n.d: online) that are categorized into two types: long filament fibres and short staple fibres. Natural fibres are usually staple, whilst man-made fibres are filament, with the exception of silk that comes from a natural source. These raw fibres are spun to produce a long, continuous thread referred to as yarn, which is then used in a series of methods that include, stitching, knitting and weaving in order to produce a fabric. The content, construction and finish of a fabric can determine it’s aesthetic and functional qualities. This essay will explore the classifications and characteristics of fibres, yarns and fabrics, expanding on colouration and finishing techniques. (Udale, 2008)(Hallet & Johnston, 2010)(BBC Bitesize, 2011)

Natural fibres are produced and obtained from plants and animals; they are 100% biodegradable and contribute towards a greener planet. Cotton and linen are two of the most popular plant fibres recognized in the textile industry. Cotton is a soft fibre extracted from the seeds of the cotton plant; it is used to produce 40% of the world’s textiles from clothing apparel to home furnishings. It is durable, absorbent and provides natural ventilation, which is useful in hot weather. Linen comes from the stalk of the flax plant and has similar properties to cotton but is less flexible and will crease a lot easier. With more than 70% used in apparel, linen is a popular favourite in summer as it washes well, is highly absorbent and dries easily, allowing the wearer to feel cool and fresh. (Corbman, 1983)(Udale, 2008)(IYNF, 2009)

Animal fibres such as wool and silk are also widely recognized in the textile industry. Wool is a soft, springy fibre that grows from the skin of sheep and various other animals. “Merino sheep produce the finest and most valuable wool” (Udale, 2008: p.43) in comparison to other breeds. Merino wool
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