2. Natural Fibers & Synthetic Fibers

4. 1. Natural Fibers – are produced from sources in Nature such as the following: A.Plants – Including: 1. Cotton Boll 2. Flax Plant

5. B.Animals – Including: 1. Sheep 2. Silk Worms

6. Natural Fibers are generally… POSITIVES: More comfortable to wear Breathable Hydrophilic (water absorbent) Environmentally Friendly

7. Natural Fibers are generally… NEGATIVES: More Expensive Shrink Easily Wrinkle Easily More Difficult to care for (Usually need to be dry-cleaned)

9. Synthetic Fibers are generally… POSITIVES: Less Expensive Do NOT Shrink Resist Wrinkles Repels Water Easy to Care For (Machine Washable)

10. Synthetic Fibers are generally… NEGATIVES: Less comfortable Static Cling Hydrophobic (Does Not Absorb) Melts at High Temperatures

11. Natural Fibers Distinguishing Characteristics & Uses Wool - Absorbs & repels water USED FOR: Winter clothing, Men’s suits… Silk – Luxurious Drape & Gummy Texture USED FOR: Formal dresses, ties, scarves…

12. Distinguishing Characteristics & Uses Linen – Uneven Texture USED FOR: women’s suits, Table Cloths, etc… Cotton – Least Expensive & Easiest Care USED FOR: Many things including, Summer clothes, knits, sheets, towels, etc…

13. Distinguishing Characteristics & Uses… NYLON – Non Cellulosic - Is the Strongest Fiber USED FOR: Heavy duty things, such as tents, back packs, tarps, etc… ALSO, USED FOR: delicate things such as stockings…

14. Distinguishing Characteristics & Uses… POLYESTER – Non-cellulosic Most Versatile Fiber - It is used to make fancy dresses - It is used to make polar fleece - It is made from Petroleum - It is also used for things that are not fabric - It retains Oil Stains

15. Synthetic Fibers include: ACRYLIC – Non Cellulosic - Resembles Wool USED FOR: the same types of things that wool is used for, but does not absorb as effectively

16. Distinguishing Characteristics & Uses… SPANDEX – Non Cellulosic It is the only Fiber that Stretches, USED FOR: Swim Wear & Active Wear

17. Distinguishing Characteristics & Uses… RAYON – Cellulosic Fiber - It has a drape and sheen that resembles silk. USED FOR: Elegant dresses, blouses, scarves, etc… - It is also ultra absorbent. It can hold up to ten times it’s weight. ALSO USED FOR: products that need heavy absorption

18. Distinguishing Characteristics & Uses… ACETATE - Cellulosic Fiber - Dissolves in Acetone - It has a sheen that resembles Silk. - It is the weakest fiber made and does not withstand stress. USED FOR: costumes and fancy dresses.