NATURAL & SYNTHETIC FIBERS

CLOTHING FIBERSThere are two types of fibers:Natural Fibers &Synthetic FibersNATURAL FIBERS

Natural Fibers are produced from sources in Nature such as the following: A.Plants Including:

1. Cotton Boll2. Flax Plant

ANDB.Animals Including:1. Sheep2. Silk Worms

NATURAL FIBERSNatural Fibers are generallyPOSITIVES:More comfortable to wearBreathable Hydrophilic (water absorbent)Environmentally Friendly

NATURAL FIBERSNatural Fibers are generallyNEGATIVES:More ExpensiveShrink EasilyWrinkle EasilyMore Difficult to care for(Usually need to be dry-cleaned)

SYNTHETIC FIBERS

SYNTHETIC FIBERSSynthetic Fibers are generallyPOSITIVES:Less ExpensiveDo NOT ShrinkResist WrinklesRepels WaterEasy to Care For(Machine Washable)

SYNTHETIC FIBERSSynthetic Fibers are generallyNEGATIVES:Less comfortableStatic ClingHydrophobic (Does Not Absorb)Melts at High Temperatures

NATURAL FIBERSNatural Fibers Distinguishing Characteristics & UsesWool -Absorbs & repels waterUSED FOR: Winter clothing, Mens suitsSilk Luxurious Drape & Gummy TextureUSED FOR: Formal dresses, ties, scarves

NATURAL FIBERSDistinguishing Characteristics & UsesLinen Uneven TextureUSED FOR: womens suits, Table Cloths, etcCotton Least Expensive & Easiest CareUSED FOR: Many things including, Summer clothes, knits, sheets, towels, etc

12SYNTHETIC FIBERSDistinguishing Characteristics & UsesNYLON Non Cellulosic- Is the Strongest FiberUSED FOR: Heavy duty things, such as tents, back packs, tarps, etc

ALSO, USED FOR: delicate things such as stockings

SYNTHETIC FIBERSDistinguishing Characteristics & UsesPOLYESTER Non-cellulosicMost Versatile Fiber- It is used to make fancy dresses- It is used to make polar fleece- It is made from Petroleum- It is also used for things that are not fabric- It retains Oil Stains

SYNTHETIC FIBERSSynthetic Fibers include:ACRYLIC Non Cellulosic - Resembles WoolUSED FOR: the same types of things that wool is used for, but does not absorb as effectively

SYNTHETIC FIBERSDistinguishing Characteristics & UsesSPANDEX Non CellulosicIt is the only Fiber that Stretches, USED FOR: Swim Wear & Active Wear

SYNTHETIC FIBERSDistinguishing Characteristics & UsesRAYON Cellulosic Fiber- It has a drape and sheen that resembles silk.USED FOR: Elegant dresses, blouses, scarves, etc - It is also ultra absorbent. It can hold up to ten times its weight. ALSO USED FOR: products that need heavy absorption

SYNTHETIC FIBERSDistinguishing Characteristics & UsesACETATE - Cellulosic Fiber - Dissolves in Acetone- It has a sheen that resembles Silk.- It is the weakest fiber made and does not withstand stress. USED FOR: costumes and fancy dresses.