1. Natural Fibres Learning Objectives:
Understand the sources, properties and uses of natural fibres.
Identify the advantages and disadvantages of natural fibres.

2. Natural Plant Fibres - Cotton
Properties:
Strong
Absorbent
Cool to wear
Hard- wearing
Creases easily
Smooth
Versatile
Easy to care for
Breathable
Fabric Names:
Calico Drill
Corduroy Poplin
Denim Velvet
Advantages:
Strong when wet
Durable & long lasting
Not expensive
Environmentally sustainable
Comfortable to wear
Disadvantages:
Creases easily
Burns easily
Shrinks when washed
Uses:
Soft furnishings such as cushions and curtains
Clothing such as jeans and T-shirts
Knitting yarns

3. Natural Plant Fibres - Linen
Properties:
Very hard-wearing
Cool next to the skin
Strong
Absorbent
Creases easily
Dull lustre
Breathable
Fabric Names:
Duck Huckabuck
Mattress Ticking Holland
Uses:
Light weight summer clothing
Tea towels
Sheets
Table cloths
Disadvantages:
Creases easily
Expensive
Advantages:
Strong when wet
Very hard-wearing
Highly absorbent so dyes easily
Comfortable to wear

4. Natural Animal Fibres - Wool
Properties:
Warm
Absorbent
Low flammability
Good elasticity so creases drop out easily
Comfortable to wear
Fabric Names:
Lambswool
Merino
Superwash
Felt
Harris Tweed
Gaberdine
Uses:
Warm outer wear such as coats
Jumpers and cardigans
Blankets
Carpets
Advantages:
Warm and insulating
Does not crease easily
Comfortable
Can be produced in a wide range of weights of fabric.
Disadvantages:
Can shrink & felt when washed
Takes a long time to dry as it is very absorbent
Some types can be itchy next to the skin

5. Natural Animal Fibres - Silk
Properties:
Absorbent
Soft and comfortable
Cool but also warm and insulating when worn in layers
Natural sheen and lustre
Strong when dry
Fabric Names:
Chiffon Duchess
Crepe Organza
Dupion Taffeta
Advantages:
Soft, smooth and lustrous
Drapes well
Comfortable to wear next to the skin
Disadvantages:
Expensive
Can be weak when wet so it needs careful washing or dry cleaning.
May crease easily
Uses:
Luxury clothing such as lingerie, evening and bridal wear.
Knitwear
Soft furnishings