FIBERS

SYNTHETIC FIBERS Manufactured through the use of chemical substances. Less absorbent than natural fibers and are heat sensitive.

ACRYLIC  created to be similar to wool ; soft, warm, and lightweight  often used in sweaters  machine washable  tends to peel and/or ball

ACETATE created to be a silk look alike often used in linings & formal wear usually dry cleanable only

POLYESTER  washes easily, resists wrinkling, but retains oily stains  fine to heavy weight – will depend upon use  tend to peel and/or ball

RAYON made from wood pulp ; not a very strong fiber can be made to resemble cotton and/or silk; A very soft drape easily wrinkles, washable or dry cleanable, check label

NYLON nylon is the strongest fiber used in sportswear use low pressing temperature

SPANDEX  spandex is commonly used in active wear, swim wear and stretchable garments  provides elasticity avoid chlorine, dryer, or hot iron

NATURAL FIBERS

COTTON Made from cotton plant Least expensive natural fiber Good for summer clothing and children’s wear Press at high temperature Absorbs moisture, comfortable to wear Wrinkles easily, dries quickly, shrinks

LINEN Made from stem of flax plant Many characteristics like cotton – wrinkles, strong, absorbs moisture Expensive – used in fine summer suits Care varies from wash able to dry clean Press at high temperature

SILK Made from silk worm Luxury fabric – beautiful colors Wrinkles easily & weakened by sun Care varies from washable to dry clean

WOOL Made from animals sheep, rabbits, goats etc. Natural fire-retardant characteristics Warm, keeps body heat in, repels outside moisture Often used for coats & outer wear Shrinks –Care varies from dry clean to washable

BLENDS Are a combination of two or more fibers. They are created to combine the best characteristics of both fibers.