Natural and man-made fibres, and blends

The fibre is the raw material of the fabric, and its properties pass into the piece. Learn the basics now and you will understand why each fabric behaves as it does.

Natural fibres

• Cotton: Absorbs sweat and is comfortable, but creases and can shrink.
• Linen: Strong and fresh in the heat, but creases easily.
• Wool: Insulates and keeps its shape, and needs care.
• Silk: Soft and lustrous, needs care and costs more.

Man-made and regenerated fibres

• Polyester: Durable and quick drying, usually less breathable.
• Nylon: Strong and resistant to abrasion.
• Viscose (rayon): A man-made fibre made from natural cellulose, soft in drape and prone to creasing.
• Elastane (spandex): Gives stretch, added as a small share of a blend.

Why blends

A blend combines the strengths of several fibres: cotton with a little elastane for stretch, or linen with viscose for more softness. But each addition changes the care, the price and perhaps the sustainability. Always read the composition percentages instead of relying on the name.

Exercise

Pick two fabrics you like and pull a thread from the edge of each to look at the fibre. Write the composition of each as on its label, and what you expect from its performance.