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Natural Fibers

Derived from plants and animals, biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

Common Natural Fibers

Include cotton, jute, linen, wool, cashmere, and silk, each with unique properties.

Cotton

The most universal fiber known for high absorbency and comfort; wrinkles easily.

Jute

A cheap fiber known as burlap, primarily used for carpet backing; brittle and easily broken.

Linen

Derived from flax, durable and becomes softer with washing; the strongest vegetable fiber.

Wool

An animal protein fiber from sheep that is warm and resilient, requiring dry cleaning.

Cashmere

A luxurious fiber from goats, soft and warm, with a very low yield, making it rare.

Silk

Produced by silkworms, known for strength and luxurious feel, used in high-end fabrics.

Manufactured Fibers

Created through chemical processes from non-fiber substances, allowing customization.

Rayon

A regenerated cellulose fiber, soft but loses strength when wet; not ironed with high heat.

Nylon

The first synthetic fabric, developed in 1939, known for quick-drying properties.

Polyester

The most widely used manmade fiber, wrinkle-resistant but may feel clammy against skin.

Spandex

Highly elastic fiber introduced in 1959, commonly used in athletic and swimwear.

Plain Weave

The simplest weaving technique, characterized by a checkerboard pattern; examples include burlap.

Twill Weave

Features diagonal lines, providing durability; denim is a popular example.

Satin Weave

Creates a shiny surface by floating yarns, often used in luxurious fabrics.

Basket Weave

A variation of plain weave that uses multiple threads, resulting in a looser fabric.

Pile Weave

Creates three-dimensional texture; seen in velvet and terry cloth.

Jacquard Weave

Allows for intricate patterns to be woven into the fabric, used in decorative textiles.

Rayon Fiber

Made from regenerated cellulose, known for softness and versatility; used in apparel and medical supplies.

Nylon Applications

Commonly used in hosiery, tires, and airbags, known for its care and quick-drying properties.

Polyester Applications

Widely used in apparel and non-apparel items, recognized for resistance to wrinkles.

Spandex Applications

Used in athletic wear, swimwear, and diapers; sensitive to chlorine.

Historical Development of Fibers

Rayon was the first manmade fiber, nylon revolutionized the industry in 1939, and polyester became widely used.