Fabrics from Natural Fibers

Although man-made fibers are becoming more and more technological, customers of the Knitting Fair said that some people only accept natural fibers.

Fibers obtained from nature are generally called natural fibers and the fabrics produced with such fibers are essentially natural fabrics. A large number of natural sources of cellulose content are tapped to produce textile products. Various fiber producing plants and animals are commercially grown in order to meet the growing requirements of textile products. Natural materials blended with regenerated polymers is a new trend in textile production due to the composite products’ specific characteristics, and easy availability of natural fibers.

Commercially available textile fabrics generated with natural fibers are classified below by the source of fibers.

1. Cotton Fabric

Cotton is a natural fiber that comes from the seedpod of the cotton plant and is used to make many fabric types.The fabric which is believed to be most soothing and safe is called as cotton fabric. Immense use of cotton fabric for infant’s dresses or beddings is a live testimony of its softness and skin-friendliness. Cotton fabric has a distinctive feature that it adjusts easily to climatic requirements that is why it is called all-season fabric. In summer season cotton fabric keeps the body cool and absorbs the sweat easily whereas they give a warm feel if worn in a winter season.A wide variety of fabrics such as Calico, Corduroy, Denim, Gingham, Drill, Terry Toweling, Chintz, Cambric, Lawn, Gabardine, Poplin, Velvet, etc. are produced with Cotton.

silk cocoonsSilk counts to the strongest natural fabric in the world. Known for its softness, luster, beauty and luxurious look, silk fabric is one of the higher grade fabric providing comfort to the wearer in all types of weather. Keeping the body cool in summer and warm in winter, silk was discovered during 2640 B.C. in China.Variety of silk fabrics such as Chiffon, Georgette, Damask, Taffeta, Organza, Crepe de Chine, Duponi, Noil, Pongee, Shantung, Tussar, Satin, Doupion, etc. are available in the market. Because of its sheer variety of designs, weaving, and quality, silk textile is popular worldwide.

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Silk fabric is mainly used for making luxurious and expensive dresses and home furnishings. Indian silk textile is popular worldwide whereas the USA is the worlds leading manufacturer of silk products in France and Italy are also involved in the same line producing high-value sophisticated silk fabrics in Europe.

2. Linen Fabric

flax plantsLinen is called as king of natural fabric. Linen is extensively used for apparel making and home furnishing as well. Linen, being a natural fiber is considered to be safe for all types of skin.

Linen fabric is also suggested for sensitive skin as its natural properties makes it resistant to allergies.

Linen fabric does not cause problems like irritation, allergic reaction etc. The natural fiber of linen makes it strong and durable. Linen is an easily maintainable fabric. No special treatments are required for linen; it can be simply cleaned by hands. Although linen is used for all kinds of clothing, yet mostly used for home furnishing items like a tablecloth, bedspreads, interlining, curtains etc.

3. Wool Fabric

Merino sheepSoft, strong and very durable wool fabric provide warmth and attractive appearance. It is the fabric which keeps the wearer dry while sweating and cool when it is hot. Wicking away perspiration from the body, the wool fabric does not wrinkle easily and is resistant to dirt wear and tear. It is also having the quality of not burning when put over the flame, it only smolders. Felt made of wool fabric is used as covers for piano hammers. It is also used in absorbing odors and noise in machinery and stereo speakers.Wool fabric is being used for clothing for over twelve thousand years does not only come from sheep only, whereas widely used Kashmiri sweaters are made from goats.

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Wool fabric is equipped with different characteristics like warm, resists to wrinkle, wear and tear, it is lightweight and durable which also absorbs moisture. Have been largely used in blankets and carpets, today almost every wardrobe contains garment made of woolen fabric.

Worsted, Shetland, Baize, Flannel, Jersey, Tweed, Serge, Fleece, Tartan are few generally used wool fabrics.

4. Cashmere/Kashmiri Fabric

cashmere-goatCashmere Fabrics are made from the hair fiber forming the downy undercoat of the Kashmir goat. The term Cashmere Fabric is often used for extremely soft wools as well. Cashmere wool obtained from goats is often treated as specialty or luxury fiber because of its high economic value, softness, luster, and scarcity.

5. Leather Fabric

Comfortable in both hot and cold condition, the leather fabric is not affected by surrounding temperature. Adding a classic luxury, pleasant to touch and comfortable, the leather fabric is soft, elastic and firm. Leather fabric is blessed with the quality of absorbing water vapor without losing dryness and retaining to the original shape when stretched.

6. Ramie Fabric

Ramie Fabrics are produced from Ramie plants, a plant with heart-shaped leaves having the white underside with dense hairs. Ramie is also called China Grass since it was grown in China as a fiber crop. Ramie is one of the strongest natural fibers. It exhibits even greater strength when wet. Ramie fiber is known especially for its ability to hold shape, reduce wrinkling, and introduce a silky luster to the fabric appearance. Ramie fabric having characteristics like moisture absorption, air permeability is valued as a summer fabric which is not harmed by mild acid and is resistant to alkali. Ramie was used to produce open weave fabrics called “Mechera”, suitable for warm climates.

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7. Hemp Fabric

Highly versatile hemp fabric is used in a countless number of products like shoes, furniture, apparel, accessories and home furnishing. Hemp fabric is a fabric which is commonly known for its warmth, softness, and durability.

Providing beautiful lusture, hemp fabric is best for making apparel which can withstand harsh conditions and last longer. UV protected apparel fabric have an insulative quality that allows clothing to be cool in summer.

Having characteristics like durability, absorption, insulation, apparel fabric withstands water better than any other textile product. It is obtained from the stem of the plant, the finest hemp fabric is produced in Italy. Acting as a great choice for comfortable work clothes, home decoration, hemp fabric is also used in the manufacturing of clothing, curtains, draperies, upholstery, bedspreads, table linens, sheets, dish towels, canvas, etc.

8. Jute Fabric

Being among the strong and durable fabric, jute fabric is ideally being used as bags or sacks for packing since ages. The jute fabric is a much-soughed item for fashionable clothes, home furnishing, and fashion accessories. Bangladesh counts to the largest cultivator of jute fabric with India as the second largest jute goods manufacturer.

The most important use of the jute fabric is in the manufacturing of carpets, linoleum, cordage, and twines. It is sometimes used as webbing to cover inner springs of the auto seats. Sometimes used as fashion accessory used for fashion garments, tapestries, soft luggage, etc.

Source: textiles school

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Knitting Expo divides man-made fibers into two groups:

1.Manufactured with Natural Polymers are cellulosic fibers that have been made by chemically changing the natural material.

2.Manufactured with Synthetic Polymers are generally derived from petrochemicals which are processed into polymer substances and then melted in the spinning process and extruded as polyester fibers.

Man-made Fibers from Natural Polymers

1. Rayon/Viscose Fabric

Rayon comes from the wood pulp of the eucalyptus, pine or beech wood. It can also be made from short cotton fibers called cotton linters – a waste product from the cotton processing industry. Rayon fabric is a synthetic textile fiber which is obtained by forcing a cellulose solution through fine spinnerets. In other words, rayon fabric is a final result of solidifying filaments. The process of making rayon is quite distinct; through which natural raw supplies are transformed to make it practical.

Rayon is a fabric that can be woven or knit; further ensuring a versatile use. The efficiency of rayon fabric is comparatively much higher than taffeta or other cotton fabric. It is economical too. Apart from this, its soft texture makes rayon one of the most lovable fabrics. Rayon fabric is widely used in making a number of apparels and home furnishing items.

Nowadays, viscose fabric is widely used for lining and furnishing because it provides the staple for towels and table-cloths.

2. Acetate Fabric

Cellulose acetate is a combination of cellulose from wood pulp and acetic acid. It is a dry, granular substance which can be dry spun when dissolved in acetone.

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Made from the cellulose and obtained by reconstructing cotton or wood pulp, Acetate fabric is resistant to shrinkage, moth, and mildew. Acetate is a fabric which gives extremely soft and luxurious look just like silk fabric.

3. Lyocell Fabric

Lyocell is the generic name for a group of fibers derived from plant cellulose. One of the most important of these fibers is Tencel® developed by Courthauld.

Although the main source of lyocell is wood pulp, unlike viscose, the manufacturing process is quite different and has been developed to be more environmentally sensitive. The whole process of Lyocell is considered eco-friendly since waste can be re-used.

4. Azlon Fabric

Azlon fibers are composed of protein materials derived from natural sources. It is produced, like other synthetic fibers, by converting the raw material to a solution that is extruded through the holes of a device called a spinneret and then stretched to improve the alignment of the chains of molecules making up the fibers.

Man-made fibers from Synthetic Polymers

1. Polyester Fabric

Polyester is a type of fabric that is not found naturally. The polyester fabric is man-made, which has a huge market share (more than 50%) compared to other commercially used fibers. The fabric is widely used in various applications and is very much in demand in markets. This fabric has various qualities due to those it is so popular like wrinkle resistance and springing back into its smooth shape. The fabric is very strong and soft as well. The polyester fabric can also be mixed with other fabrics to make a strong and durable fabric or to achieve any other motive. For example, In upholstery, polyester is generally blended with wool to eliminate crushing and reduce fading. There are various uses of polyester fabric like it is used in casement curtains, draperies, floor coverings, throw rugs, bedding, and as a cushioning or insulating material.

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2. Nylon Fabric

nylon fabricThe term nylon is derived from the New York and London. Nylon is made from polyamide and is extensively used in the textile industry. It is a thermoplastic and is made up of repeated units linked by a chemical bond.

Fabric composed of nylon, called nylon fiber is used in a variety of uses like clothing, sheets, covers, and many other domestic and industrial appliances. Nylon is an easy product to manufacture as it needs less time and also lesser attention. That indeed makes nylon fabrics a nice product to trade and make money. The increasing uses and popularity of Nylon fabrics have made the finest product to trade fabrics.

Nylon fabric is preferred amidst all other fabrics as it is really strong and has a strong ability of stretchiness. High elasticity of nylon fabrics makes it prime use in like of luggage baggage, wallets and many more. In addition, nylon fabrics are easy to maintain as gets cleaned and dried without any special effort.

Nylon Fabrics are availed in the latest forms that are much stiffer and lighter in weight. Since it is highly durable, nylon fabric makes the cloth or the other long lasting and wears and tears resistant. Nylon is the polymer of amide, termed as polyamide extracted from the petroleum.

3. Acrylic Fabric

Acrylic fabrics is a kind of the synthetic fiber that is artificially manufactured. Acrylic fabrics can also be referred as the imitation of wool. Acrylic fabrics are used to make loads of apparels and many other things. The main use of the Acrylic fabrics is in outfits like shirts and many other ladies outfits. Also, Acrylic fabrics are used in seats of chairs and sofas as well. Acrylic fabrics are known for their stiffness and ability to wear and tear resistance. Acrylic also does not possess the glaze for a longer period of time.

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Acrylic fabrics are available mainly in two forms that are ‘Courtelle’ and ‘Orlon’. These fabrics are known for their durability and especially Orlon is reckoned for its light weightiness. These kinds of Acrylic fabrics serve plenty of option in shapes and designs. In the market, there are several manufacturers and suppliers in the business of the Acrylic fabrics. That shows the popularity of Acrylic fabrics amidst masses.

People prefer the Acrylic fabrics as they are available at the low rates than any other fabrics. In addition, these fibers are worn resistant stays for longer period of time. Acrylic fabrics are the finest example of the invention of the mankind in the fabric industry. And thence is looked up with a great value of pride when putting on.

4. Spandex Fabric

spandex fabricBecause of its great shape retention quality, spandex fabric is widely used as the fashion fabric. The important point to note about spandex fabric is that it bounces back to its original structure even after stretching up to 600 times. Highly durable superior strength spandex fabric is resistant to dry heat and oil. Providing great comfort and flexibility it does not put on weight on the body of the wearer.

With the characteristics of elasticity, retaining back to original shape, resistance to dry heat and abrasion, spandex fabric feels and fits better when blended and of course, make one look better. With its great shape retention qualities, spandex is used in making undergarments and support hose. It creates a less confined feel and becomes stronger and versatile piece of clothing. Providing resistance to perspiration and body oils spandex fabric is more stable and durable.

5. Lastex Fabric

Lastex fabric basically refers to an elastic fiber that is made from Latex. The lastex fabric is used with other complex fibers with a intent to made different fabrics like spandex and foundation garments.

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6. Polypropylene Fabric

Polypropylene fabric is especially meant for winter seasons because the only layer of hundred percent polypropylene rib knit generally stays dry and due to this feature, it keeps one’s body warmer. A high-quality lightweight polypropylene fabric is preferred in winter season because it allows a user to perform any moderate activity in cold weather at ease.

Polypropylene fabric basically consists of hydrophobic which relinquishes any possibility of moisture in such fabric and further its pushes the moisture vapor away from the skin. Entailing a large number of features, polypropylene fabric can simply be termed stunning in each and every aspect.

7. Polyethylene Fabric

Polyethylene fabric is a distinct fabric that is highly acclaimed in the domestic and industrial sectors. Polyethylene fabric is known for its unmatchable density and strength that is superior to all others. Polyethylene fabric is a type of a synthetic fabric that is manufactured in the labs.

8. Carbon Fabric

Carbon fabric is generally used in different applications such as Brake linings, Aircraft interiors, Windmill blades, Tooling, Primary and secondary structures, Racing helmets and so on. Widely used in an aerospace application, carbon fabric provides a maximum degree of stiffness in aircraft.

An exquisitely created carbon fabric is well known for its light weight and high strength. A carbon fabric is also characterized by different types of features such as Fire resistant, Dimensionally stable, Lightweight, High strength etc.

9. Vinyl Fabric

It is well observed that a large number of vinyl fabrics satin and spot resistant. Vinyl fabric is generally created with ultraviolet stabilized pigments and this segment proves much crucial if one’s application regarding vinyl fabric involves direct exposure to sunlight.

Source: textiles school

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In order to produce the fabric with maximum cover factor with the minimum weight, it’s only possible when GH is the distance between the loops in a horizontal direction and KJ is the correct length between the loops in a longitudinal direction. In this article knitting fair explains geometrical pattern of knitted fabrics.

The model of the relationship between the loop, the order of the loop length and the length of the loop in the loop was developed. The coordinate values of the points illustrated were calculated which define the central axis of yarn using the spline curves in Abaqus / CAE. Abaqus / CAE calculates the shape of the curve using a cubic spline fit between all points along the spline; In addition, the first and second derivatives of the spline are continuous. The 3D models of plain weft knit fabrics can be generated by sweeping the circular cross section of the yarn along the central axis of the yarn. Yarns were assumed to be incompressible in nature.

Knitted fabrics have a good stretch property that offers better conformability and avoids excessive pressure between the garment and body. Many researchers have analyzed the geometrical pattern of knitted fabrics. In 1926 Chamberlain presented a two-dimensional loop structure of the plain knitted fabric. He proposed that the theoretically correct fabric, in which GH represents the distance between the centres of two loops, GKH represent the equilateral triangle and KJ bisect the equilateral triangle.

In Chamberlain’s model, there is no consideration of loop in the third dimension in order to produce the fabric with a maximum cover factor, but it is only possible when GH is the distance between the loops in a horizontal direction and KJ is the correct length between the loops in the longitudinal direction. So the length of the loop cannot be predicted with high accuracy. In 1947 Peirce developed a geometric model of plain weft knit fabric on the assumption that the loop formed from the circular arc and straight line and the yarn central axis follows a path on the surface of cylinder following the direction of a course. In order to develop the relationship of stitch length in terms of yarn diameter, wales and course spacing.

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Knitted fabrics have a good stretch property which offers better conformability and avoids excessive pressure between the garment and body . Many researchers analysed the geometrical model of knitted fabrics. In 1926 Chamberlain presented a two-dimensional loop structure of the plain knitted fabric. He proposed that the theoretically correct fabric as shown in Equation-1, in which GH represents the distance between the centres of two loops, GKH represent the equilateral triangle and KJ bisect the equilateral triangle. In order to produce the fabric with maximum cover factor with the minimum weight, it’s only possible when GH is the distance between the loops in a horizontal direction and KJ is the correct length between the loops in a longitudinal direction.

In Chamberlain’s model, there was no consideration of a loop in the third dimension so the length of the loop cannot be predicted with high accuracy. In 1947 Peirce developed a geometrical model of plain weft knitted fabric on the assumption that the loop composed of a circular arc and straight line and the yarn central axis follows a path on the surface of cylinder following the direction of a course. In order to develop the relationship of stitch length in terms of yarn diameter, wales and course spacing he considered the flat structure of plain weft knitted fabric as shown in Figure 2. In his compact planned structure, the course ( p’ ) and wales ( w ) spacing can be calculated by Equation 8 & 9 respectively.

Leaf and Glaskin pointed out that the stable knitted fabric loop structure could not be produced by the model proposed by the Peirce. They showed that the Peirce considered the radius of curvature R = 4.172d for all types of the loop which gave the discontinuity in the torsion of yarn and eventually affected the shape of loops. They proposed a geometrical model of plain weft knitted fabric in which the central axis of yarn passes over a series of a circular cylinder and their model composed of circular arcs as shown in Figure 4.

Source: textiles school

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