Fabrics

Fabrics are materials composed of fibers held together by interlacing, twisting, or bonding. They are used to make a wide range of products, from clothing to upholstery and industrial textiles. Fibers can be natural or synthetic. Natural fibers come from plants (cotton, linen, hemp) or animals (wool, silk). Synthetic fibers are derived from polymers such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex; regenerated cellulose fibers include rayon and lyocell.

Fabrics are formed by weaving, knitting, or bonding fibers into usable sheets. Weaving interlaces warp and weft to create a grid-like structure, while knitting forms loops for stretch. Nonwoven fabrics are produced by bonding or felting fibers without knitting or weaving. The choice of fiber and method determines properties such as strength, weight, elasticity, texture, drape, and breathability. Care requirements vary: natural fibers may wrinkle or shrink and often require gentler washing; synthetics tend to be more resistant to wrinkling and staining but may melt under high heat.

Fabrics undergo finishing treatments such as dyeing, printing, or chemical finishes to alter color, texture, or performance. They are used in apparel, home textiles, and technical applications like geotextiles or medical textiles.

Sustainability concerns include water and chemical use, energy demand, and microplastic release. Industry responses include organic or recycled fibers, closed-loop processing, and certifications such as GOTS or OEKO-TEX.