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Essential Knowledge – Knowing the Difference between Different Fabric Types
Textiles, fabrics and fibres are all around us in everyday life. We may not always be aware of it, but fabrics play a major role in both function and fashion. Understanding the various properties of different fabrics is essential to making educated decisions when shopping for clothing, whether for everyday life or for a special occasion. Here we look at the importance of understanding fabric types and the benefits of having this knowledge.
The Benefits of Knowing Your Fabrics
Knowing your fabrics makes it easier to identify which fabrics you prefer and which fabrics suit different occasions. Some fabrics are more suitable for activewear, some are best for special occasions like formal events. Here are the top benefits of understanding fabric types
- Identifying the Best Fabric for the Job: Different fabrics have different properties and strengths. Knowing these properties helps to identify the best fabric for a particular job. For example, an activewear enthusiast will benefit from knowing that Polyester is best suited to retain its shape during physical activities.
- What to Look for in Quality Fabrics: Quality fabrics are important for many reasons, and one way to identify quality fabrics is by understanding the fabric types and looking for properties like strength and durability.
- Cost Per Wear: Quality fabrics are a good investment as they may initially cost more, but they last longer, making the cost per wear lower in the long run.
- Style and Comfort: Comfort and style are two of the most important factors when selecting clothing. Knowing the different fabrics, their properties and how they feel against the skin helps with making the right choice in selecting the right clothing.
Common Fabric Types
There are many different fabric types, and a comprehensive understanding of each type is beyond the scope of this article. However, here is a brief overview of the main types of fabrics.
- Cotton: Cotton is a natural fiber that is strong, soft and breathable. It is often blended with synthetic fibers to enhance its qualities.
- Linen: Another natural fiber, linen is lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for hot weather or vigorous activity.
- Silk: For a luxurious feel, look no further than silk. Its unparalleled softness makes it perfect for special occasions.
- Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fiber that offers strength, elasticity and a low cost. It is great for activewear and high-traffic garments.
- Nylon: A synthetic fiber, nylon offers great strength and durability. It is often blended with other fibers to enhance the strength.
Conclusion
Having an understanding of the different fabric types is essential for making informed decisions when shopping for clothing. Knowing the different fabric types helps you identify the right fabric for your needs, identify quality fabrics and maximize the cost per wear. It also helps to ensure you look and feel good with clothing that is comfortable and stylish. Consequently, it is important to understand the different fabric types when choosing clothing.