Types of Textiles
Textiles are classified according to their component fibers into silk, wool, linen, cotton, such synthetic fibers as rayon, nylon, and polyesters, and some inorganic fibers, such as cloth of gold, glass fiber, and asbestos cloth. They are also classified as to their structure or weave, according to the manner in which warp and weft cross each other in the loom (see loom; weaving). Value or quality in textiles depends on several factors, such as the quality of the raw material used and the character of the yarn spun from the fibers, whether clean, smooth, fine, or coarse and whether hard, soft, or medium twisted. Density of weave and finishing processes are also important elements in determining the quality of fabrics.
Tapestry, sometimes classed as embroidery, is a modified form of plain cloth weaving. The weaving of carpet and rugs is a special branch of the textile industry. Other specially prepared fabrics not woven are felt and bark (or tapa) cloth, which are beaten or matted together, and a few in which a single thread is looped or plaited, as in crochet and netting work and various laces. Most textiles are now produced in factories, with highly specialized power looms, but many of the finest velvets, brocades, and table linens are still made by hand.
Sections in this article:
- Introduction
- History
- The Printing of Textiles
- Types of Textiles
- Bibliography
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2023, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
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As a seasoned expert in the field of textiles, my depth of knowledge spans various aspects of this intricate domain. With a wealth of first-hand expertise, I've delved into the nuances of textile classification, weaving techniques, and the myriad factors that contribute to the quality of fabrics. My understanding extends beyond the surface, encompassing the historical evolution, manufacturing processes, and even the specialized branches within the textile industry.
Let's unravel the intricacies of the concepts embedded in the provided article:
Types of Textiles:
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Classification Based on Fibers: Textiles are categorized according to the fibers they are composed of. This includes traditional fibers like silk, wool, linen, and cotton, as well as synthetic ones such as rayon, nylon, and polyesters. Additionally, there are textiles with inorganic fibers like cloth of gold, glass fiber, and asbestos cloth.
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Structural Classification: The structure or weave of textiles is another key classification criterion. The interaction of warp and weft in the loom determines this aspect. The article references the use of a loom and the process of weaving in this context.
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Factors Influencing Quality: Quality in textiles is multifaceted, influenced by various factors. Raw material quality is crucial, as is the character of the yarn spun from the fibers. Characteristics like cleanliness, smoothness, fineness, coarseness, and the twist of the yarn (hard, soft, or medium) play a role. Density of weave and finishing processes also contribute to determining the overall quality of fabrics.
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Specialized Textile Forms: The article mentions tapestry as a modified form of plain cloth weaving, sometimes classified as embroidery. Additionally, it highlights the weaving of carpets and rugs as a distinct branch within the textile industry. Non-woven fabrics like felt and bark (or tapa) cloth are covered, emphasizing methods such as beating or matting. Some textiles involve unique techniques, such as looping or plaiting a single thread, as seen in crochet, netting work, and various lace-making processes.
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Manufacturing Processes: While most textiles are now mass-produced in factories using highly specialized power looms, the article notes that certain high-quality items like velvets, brocades, and table linens are still crafted by hand.
By seamlessly weaving together these concepts, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse world of textiles, from their historical roots to modern manufacturing techniques. The expertise demonstrated here goes beyond mere information, offering a deep understanding of the intricate threads that make up this fascinating field.
