FIBER CHARACTERISTICS AND END USES Apparel Development I-Objective 1.04
COTTON Produced mostly in the USA Inexpensive Strong Easy to clean Soft Absorbent Keeps body cool in warm weather Wrinkles easily Shrinks Mildews if stored damp
COTTON IS USED FOR A VARIETY OF FABRICS FOR BOTH CLOTHING AND HOME FURNISHINGS Shirts Sweaters Dresses Jeans Underwear Socks Diapers Sheets Can you think of other end uses?
What types of items could cotton be used to make?
FLAX Comes from a plant Produced in Belgium, Ireland, and New Zealand Absorbent Expensive Smooth Lustrous Stronger than cotton Coolest fiber to wear Not very resilient Lint-free Can be washed, bleached, and ironed at high temperatures When made into fabric it’s called linen
What types of items could flax be used to make?
LINEN FABRIC IS USED FOR BOTH CLOTHING AND HOME DECOR Towels Tablecloths Suits Draperies handkerchiefs
RAMIE Comes from the stems of China grass Grown in Southeast Asia Strongest fiber known Very resilient Resistant to insects and mildew Silk-like luster Stiff Brittle Usually combined with other fibers
What types of items could ramie be used to make?
RAMIE IS COMBINED WITH OTHER FIBERS TO MAKE Knitted tops Shirts Placemats Upholstery
WOOL Protein fiber Warmest fiber Comes from fleece of sheep Natural heat insulator Resilient Should be dry cleaned or washed carefully by hand Wrinkle resistant Strong
What types of items could wool be used to make?
WOOL IS USED FOR Coats Suits Slacks Sweaters Socks Blankets carpets Can you think of others?
SILK Protein fiber Comes from silkworm cocoons Very soft and smooth Strong Lightweight Absorbent Drapes easily Usually dry cleaned Japan is the leading producer of silk
What types of items could silk be used to make?
SILK IS USED FOR A VARIETY OF FABRICS FOR BOTH CLOTHING AND HOME FURNISHINGS Lingerie Scarves Ties Dresses Wedding gowns Can you think of others?