natural,synthetic fibres, woven,non-woven, knitted textiles

• Why is choosing the right fabric important for a product?

  It affects the product's performance and quality
• What factors should be considered when selecting fabric?

  • Source of the fibre and its properties
  • Spinning and yarn-making process
  • Fabric construction from yarns or fibres
  • Applied finishes
• What are the three types of textile constructions?

  Woven, non-woven, and knitted textiles
• What is the role of warp yarns in woven fabric?

  They run along the length of the fabric
• How do weft yarns differ from warp yarns?

  Weft yarns run horizontally across the fabric
• What is the selvedge in fabric construction?

  It is the factory-finished edge of the fabric
• What are the characteristics of plain weave fabrics?

  • Simplest structure and most commonly used
  • Variations through yarn thickness, textures, and colors
• What distinguishes twill weave fabrics?

  • Diagonal lines created by the weave
  • Strong, heavy, and durable fabric
  • Variations include herringbone and chevron
• What are the characteristics of satin weave fabrics?

  • Smooth, shiny, and lustrous appearance
  • Floating yarns create a risk of snagging
• What defines pile weave fabrics?

  • Raised surface formed by tufts or loops
  • Hardwearing due to thickness from extra loops
  • Directional surface in fabrics like corduroy
• What are bonded fabrics made from?

  Directly from fibres using pressure and heat
• What are the typical uses of bonded fabrics?

  Often used in disposable products
• How are felted fabrics created?

  By applying pressure, moisture, heat, and friction
• What are the two types of knitted fabrics?

  Warp knitting and weft knitting
• What is the main characteristic of weft knit fabrics?

  Made from a single continuous yarn
• How do warp knit fabrics differ from weft knit fabrics?

  They are made from multiple yarns interlocking vertically
• What are laminated fabrics used for?

  • Combine performance characteristics of different fabrics
  • Examples include neoprene in wetsuits
• What is Gore-Tex known for?

  It has a hydrophilic membrane
• What is a fabric specification?

  • Sets out fabric requirements for a product
  • Considers physical properties, construction, and finishes
• What are fibres in textiles?

  Raw materials from natural or manufactured sources
• What are the two types of fibres?

  Long continuous filaments and short staple fibres
• How does the shape of fibres affect their properties?

  It affects softness and lustre of the fabric
• What are common fibre blends and their purposes?

  • Polyester cotton: durability and comfort
  • Cotton and elastane: stretch and fit
  • Wool and acrylic: warmth and cost-effectiveness
  • Silk and viscose: softness and sheen
• What is a filament in textiles?

  A very fine slender thread
• What is the handle of a fabric?

  How a fabric feels when handled
• What is crimp in a fibre?

  The waviness in a fibre
• What are the characteristics of cotton fibres?

  • Short staple fibres with a slight twist
  • Smooth surface prevents air trapping
  • Absorbent due to inner cavity
• What defines linen fibres?

  • Short staple fibres with a smooth surface
  • Highly absorbent with light shiny lustre
• What are the properties of silk fibres?

  • Natural long continuous filament
  • Highly absorbent and cool to wear
• What are the characteristics of wool fibres?

  • Natural crimp and coated with scales
  • Good insulator due to air trapping
  • Water repellent due to natural grease
• What defines polyester fibres?

  • Versatile and engineered for different purposes
  • Long flat filament with poor absorbency
• What is spinning in textile production?

  The process of twisting fibres to make yarn
• What are the two types of twists in spinning?

  S twist (anticlockwise) and Z twist (clockwise)
• How does a tight twist affect yarn properties?

  It makes the yarn strong but not warm
• What is the impact of natural fibres on the environment?

  • Biodegradable but release CO₂ during decomposition
  • Treated fibres release toxins into the ground
• What are the environmental impacts of synthetic fibres?

  • Decompose slowly, taking up to 1000 years
  • Release toxic and greenhouse gases during breakdown
• What are the social impacts of the textile industry?

  • Exploitative working conditions in developing countries
  • Fast fashion contributes to low pay and dangerous conditions
• What is the throwaway culture in textiles?

  • Buying affordable items for short-term use
  • Little thought given to environmental impact
• What are the mechanical finishes in textiles?

  • Brushing: raises fibres for softness
  • Calendering: smooths fabric surface
  • Glazing: adds stiffness to finish
  • Embossing: creates patterns on fabric
• What are the chemical finishes in textiles?

  • Mercerising: enhances lustre and strength
  • Crease resistance: makes fabric easier to care for
  • Flame resistance: reduces ignitability
  • Stain resistance: protects against stains
  • Water repellence: repels moisture