Introduction to Fibre and Fabric
Fibres and fabrics are essential materials used to make clothes and other textile products. Fibres are the raw materials that are spun into yarn and then woven or knitted to form fabrics.
What are Fibres?
Fibres are thin, thread-like strands that are used to make fabrics. They can be classified into two main types:
Natural Fibres – Obtained from plants and animals.
Synthetic Fibres – Made from chemical substances.
Difference between Natural and Synthetic Fibres
| Feature | Natural Fibres | Synthetic Fibres |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Derived from plants (cotton, jute) or animals (silk, wool) | Made from chemicals (nylon, polyester) |
| Examples | Cotton, wool, silk, jute | Nylon, polyester, acrylic, rayon |
| Breathability | Absorb moisture, comfortable in hot weather | Less breathable, may trap heat |
| Durability | Less durable, wrinkles easily | More durable, wrinkle-resistant |
| Cost | Generally expensive | More affordable |
| Environmental Impact | Biodegradable, eco-friendly | Non-biodegradable, can cause pollution |
How Fibres are Converted into Fabric?
The process of making fabric from fibres involves several steps:
1️⃣ Obtaining Fibre – Natural fibres are collected from plants (cotton, jute) or animals (wool, silk). Synthetic fibres are manufactured using chemicals.
2️⃣ Spinning – Fibres are twisted together to form yarn. This can be done manually (hand spinning) or using machines.
3️⃣ Weaving/Knitting – Yarn is converted into fabric:
Weaving – Two sets of yarns are interlaced to form fabric (done on looms).
Knitting – A single yarn is looped together to create fabric (used for sweaters, T-shirts).
4️⃣ Finishing – The fabric undergoes treatments like dyeing, printing, and softening to enhance its appearance and quality.