Natural Fibres Learning Objectives Understand the sources properties

Natural Fibres Learning Objectives: • Understand the sources, properties and uses of natural fibres. • Identify the advantages and disadvantages of natural fibres.

Natural Plant Fibres - Cotton Properties: • Strong • Absorbent • Cool to wear • Hard- wearing • Creases easily • Smooth • Versatile • Easy to care for • Breathable Fabric Names: Calico Drill Corduroy Poplin Denim Velvet Advantages: Disadvantages: • Strong when wet • Creases easily Uses: • Durable & long lasting • Burns easily • Soft furnishings such as cushions and curtains • Not expensive • Shrinks when washed • Clothing such as jeans and T-shirts • Comfortable to wear • Knitting yarns • Environmentally sustainable

Natural Plant Fibres - Linen Properties: • Very hard-wearing • Cool next to the skin • Strong • Absorbent • Creases easily • Dull lustre • Breathable Uses: Fabric Names: Duck Huckabuck Mattress Ticking Holland Advantages: Disadvantages: • Light weight summer clothing • Strong when wet • Creases easily • Tea towels • Very hard-wearing • Expensive • Sheets • Highly absorbent so dyes easily • Table cloths • Comfortable to wear

Natural Animal Fibres - Wool Properties: • Warm • Absorbent • Low flammability • Good elasticity so creases drop out easily • Comfortable to wear Fabric Names: Lambswool Merino Superwash Felt Harris Tweed Gaberdine Uses: • Warm outer wear such as coats Advantages: Disadvantages: • Jumpers and cardigans • Warm and insulating • Blankets • Comfortable • Carpets • Takes a long time to dry as it is very absorbent • Can be produced in a wide range of weights of fabric. • Some types can be itchy next to the skin • Does not crease easily • Can shrink & felt when washed

Natural Animal Fibres - Silk Properties: • Absorbent • Soft and comfortable • Cool but also warm and insulating when worn in layers • Natural sheen and lustre • Strong when dry Fabric Names: Advantages: Uses: • Luxury clothing such as lingerie, evening and bridal wear. • Knitwear • Soft furnishings • Soft, smooth and lustrous • Drapes well • Comfortable to wear next to the skin Chiffon Duchess Crepe Organza Dupion Taffeta Disadvantages: • Expensive • Can be weak when wet so it needs careful washing or dry cleaning. • May crease easily