Page 43 - HAND EMBROIDERY ARTISAN_TT

Handicrafts & Carpets Related Theory for Exercise 1.5.21-26
Hand Embroidery Artisan - Fabrics

Types of fabrics

Objectives: At the end of this lesson you shall be able to
• explain what is fabric and its types
• handle the different types of fabrics
• state the advantages and disadvantages of light and heavy fabrics.

Fabric: Fibres are long molecular strands that are • Avoid harsh chemicals: Limit the use of bleach and
interwoven so that a linear, string like structure is made. fabric softener.
Cotton, silk and jute are some examples of fibres. Fibres • Separate colors: Wash dark colors separately to
can be natural or manmade. Fibres are used to make prevent color transfer.
fabrics. Fabrics are used to cover hair and skin
• Ironing: If necessary, iron on a low heat setting.
Cotton: Cotton is a light, silky natural fabric that is known
as the world’s most popular material. Ginning is the Handling of wool fabric
process of extracting fluffy fibre from the seeds of the cotton To handle wool fabric, wash it as little as possible, always
plant. After that, the fibre is spun into cloth, which can be use cold water and a gentle detergent designed for wool,
woven or knitted. The comfort, adaptability, and longevity spot clean stains when necessary, dry flat, and store in a
of this fabric have all been lauded. It’s hypoallergenic cool, dry place to prevent moth damage; always check the
and breathes well, however it takes a long time to dry. care label on your wool garment for specific instructions.
Cotton is used in almost all types of clothing, including
shirts, skirts, and underwear. It can, however, wrinkle and Key points about caring for wool
shrink. Cotton also produces a variety of other fabrics, • Wash gently: Hand wash or use a delicate cycle
such as chino, chintz, gingham, and muslin. on your washing machine with a specialized wool
Wool: The fleece of sheep, goats, llamas, and alpacas detergent.
is used to make this natural fibre. It can be woven or • Cold water only: Hot water can cause wool to shrink
knitted. Wool is known for being hairy and itchy, despite significantly.
the fact that it is warm, sturdy, and long-lasting. It’s also
wrinkle-free, dust-resistant, and wear-resistant. Because • Avoid the dryer: Always air dry wool garments flat
it must be hand-washed or dry-cleaned, this fabric can be to prevent shrinkage and distortion.
pricey. Sweaters, socks, and gloves are all made of wool. • Spot clean: For small stains, attempt to spot clean
Silk: Silk is a soft, elegant fabric with a smooth touch and before washing the entire garment.
a shimmering appearance. It is known as the world’s most • Rest between wears: Allow wool garments to rest
luxurious natural fabric. Silk is made from the cocoons for 24 hours between wearings to regain their shape.
of silkworms, which can be found in China, South Asia,
and Europe. It is also one of the hardest to clean and • Store properly: When storing wool, keep it in a cool,
manage fabric. dry place and protect from moths using cedar balls or
mothballs.
Handling of cotton fabric
Handling of silk fabrics
Handle cotton fabric, wash it in cold water on a normal
cycle with a gentle detergent, avoid hot water which can To handle silk fabric properly, always wash it separately
cause shrinkage, promptly remove from the washer to from other fabrics, use a gentle hand wash with cool water
prevent wrinkles, and either air dry or tumble dry on low and a silk-specific detergent, avoid twisting or wringing,
heat; always check the care label for specific instructions. lay flat to dry out of direct sunlight, and store in a cool,
dry place on padded hangers to prevent wrinkles and
Key points to remember when caring for cotton fabric damage; for stubborn stains, consider professional dry
• Washing temperature: Use cold water for most cotton cleaning.
items to prevent shrinkage and color fading. Key points for handling silk
• Detergent: Opt for a gentle detergent. • Wash separately: Never wash silk with other fabrics,
• Wash cycle: Choose a normal or gentle cycle as it can easily snag on zippers or buttons; wash colors
depending on the fabric. separately too.
• Drying: Air drying is best to minimize wrinkles, but • Gentle hand wash: Always hand wash silk in cool
if using a dryer, use a low heat setting and remove water with a mild, silk-specific detergent, gently
clothes promptly. swishing the garment instead of scrubbing.

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