Jimmy Lam Institute of Textiles & Clothing Swimwear Fabrics Jimmy Lam Institute of Textiles & Clothing

Learning Objectives Basic Characteristics for swimwear Fabric Structure Fiber and Yarn requirement

Basic Characteristics Opacity ie not able to see through when wet (by adding acetate/nylon for liner) Higher order of stretch and recovery swimwear fit the figure tightly, and must be stable to elongation when wet Higher order of resistance to abrasion because of house wringer

Basic Characteristics (II) Higher fabric bursting strength used for tight-fitting beach styles, fibers and yarns are important Colour fastness to light under explore under strong sunlight Colour fastness to sea and pool water Given the requirement for knitted fabric, what kind of stitch and structure are suitable for swimwear ?

Fabric Structure Rib structure is better for swimwear (instead of plain) because rib structure trends to be more opaque (without adding lining) and more dense; rib structure is more elastic than single jersey (single jersey can add elastic yarn to overcome it) Common Rib structure for swimwear interlock swiss pique using stretch nylon and stretch polyester with /without spandex.

Fabric Structure (II) In whatever structure, the necessary elasticity is achieved by either laying-in or knitting-in elastomeric yarn, preferably spandex over rubber because of its lighter weight. The fabric stretch is affected by:- the fabric structure whether the elastomeric yarn is used in bare or covered form

Fabric Structure (III) A covered form yarn (spandex with an outer sheath of yarn) will normally restrict on its elasticity The degree on its extension and return from elongation will depend on the amount of covering.

Fiber and Yarn Generally, textured filament with modified into stretch yarn on false twist are more appropriate for use in swimwear than spun yarn For spun yarn, worsted system yarn is preferred over woolen system for swimwear, with high twist factor.