How are Fabrics Different?

 We dress in different types of clothes and try to personalize them. We choose a particular type of fabrics for a number of reasons. This reason may be the comfort associated with a certain type of cloth, or the shine, or breathability. But, how we can categorize this vast range of clothes. Does there exist a valid system or nomenclature or it is arbitrary and random

 There are two main classes of clothes, natural and synthetic. Natural fabrics such as wool, cotton, silk, and linen are sourced from animal hairs or furs, cotton-plant seed pods, fibers from silkworms, and flax, respectively. On the other hand, nylon, spandex, rayon, polyester, and acrylic are man-made and synthetic.

 But, these fabrics differ from each other in a number of ways. Each one has its special properties and is unique from others. Most of the nomenclature is based on the source material of these clothes. Some names are based on the type of weave used in making these clothes. However, some naming has been arbitrary and refers to a certain characteristic of a cloth.

 

Now, let us cover some of the reasons for which these clothes differ from each other.

 

Warmth

 Wool is very warm and provides an insulating layer to the body. Wool fibers are crimpy and can trap a thin layer of air between them, thus protecting the skin beneath from the harshness of the cold air. Shawls made from cashmere wool (obtained from cashmere goats and sheep) are particularly adored for this reason and are no doubt an article of luxurious clothing.

 

Breathability

 Certain clothes are adored because they ‘breathe’. Cotton, for example, is the most sought after cloth for this reason. Many people prefer pure cotton to cotton blends because it provides unsurpassed breathability. Linen, which is obtained from flax fibers, is also very breathable and lets air pass through it.

 

Strength

 When we refer to strength, durability, and longevity, we can only name synthetic fibers. Polyester, nylon, and spandex show great strength and are long-lasting.

 

Dyeing properties

 Linen, for example, is particularly good for dyeing purposes. It retains the dye well and so is the case with cotton. Some synthetic fibers can also be dyed without much concern, as the dye does not fade away soon. Wool and silk are difficult to dye because the dye will not have a uniform effect, some regions might be well-dyed, others may be lighter.

 

Softness

 When it comes to softness, cotton, linen, and silk are always the fabrics of choice. On the other hand, wool often does not yield a soft cloth because it has many crimps between its fibers and is rough. Raw silk is also not good to touch, because its fibers contain ridges and do not provide a smooth touch.

Wetness and dryness

 Some clothes like cotton can absorb water since they are hygroscopic. Some clothes do not retain moisture at all, like all man-made fibers.

 

So, when you want fabrics for you, all you can do is to study the properties of the particular type you want to buy. Only then, you should decide whether you should buy it or buy another