Natural And Synthetic Fiber Weaving - What And How

March 4th, 2006

The Weave

Types of weaves have often been mistaken for types of fabrics.
For example, satin is a type of weave, and does not denote fabric content.
Satin is woven from silk, polyester, acetate, or even blends of fibers.
Each different fiber content contributes to the hand and drape of the satin fabric also a weave that is seen in brocade, damask, and tapestry. I once called a fabric store to find jacquard woven fabric only to be told that they didn't carry natural fabrics.
The correct answer would have been to ask what type of jacquard I was looking for.


Manufactured Fabrics are usually made of filaments extruded as liquid and formed into various fibers. Because the fiber starts as a liquid, many of the fibers are colored before they become filament, thus they are difficult to dye after the fiber is woven into a fabric.

Nylon is stronger yet weighs less than any other commonly used fiber. It is elastic and resilient and responsive to heat setting. Nylon fibers are smooth, non-absorbent and dry quickly. Dirt doesn't cling to this smooth fiber nor is it weakened by chemicals and perspiration. Extensive washing and drying in an automatic dryer can eventually cause piling. Nylon whites should be washed separately to avoid graying. This fabric may yellow so it should be bleached frequently with sodium perborate bleach.Nylon melts at high temperatures. If ironing is necessary, always use a low temperature on the wrong side.