1 materials and processes textiles

Question 1

Types of natural fibres

Answer 1

cotton
Cotton is a soft fibre that grows around the seeds of the cotton plant. The fibre is most often spun into thread and used to make a soft, breathable textile.

linen
Linen is a material made from the fibres of the flax plant.

wool
Wool is the fibre derived from the hair of domesticated animals, usually sheep.

Question 2

Types of synthetic fibres

Answer 2

nylon
Nylon is a synthetic polymer, a plastic. Nylon fibres are used to make many synthetic fabrics. Nylon fibres are effectively strands of plastic yarn.

polypropylene
Its use as apparel and household textiles is rather
limited; the bulk of the fibre produced is used for
industrial applications.

polyester
Polyester is a synthetic polymer.

Question 3

cotton

Answer 3

advantages 
 Cool to wear
 Very absorbent, dries slowly
 Soft handle
 Good drape
 Durable
 Can be washed and ironed

disadvantages
 Creases easily

application
Jeans, T-shirts and
towels

Question 4

linen

Answer 4

advantages 
 Fresh and cool to wear
 Very absorbent
 Dries quickly
 Good drape
 Durable
 Can be washed and ironed

disadvantages
 Creases badly

application
Summer clothing, tea
towels pillowcases and
tablecloths

Question 5

wool

Answer 5

advantages 
 Warm to wear
 Absorbent,
 Breathable, repels rain
 Soft or coarse handle
 Good drape
 Creases drop out

disadvantages
 Dries slowly
 Can shrink
 Should be dry
cleaned
 Not durable

application
Jumpers, suits and
blankets

Question 6

nylon

Answer 6

advantages 
 Warm to wear
 Absorbent, dries slowly
 Breathable, repels rain
 Good drape
 Durable
 Creases drop out

disadvantages
 Can shrink
 Should be dry
cleaned

application
Active sportswear,
fleece jackets, socks
and seat belts.

Question 7

polypropylene

Answer 7

advantages 
 Lightweight
 It does not absorb moisture.
 Good chemical resistance.
 Low thermal conductivity

disadvantages
 Can’t be ironed
 Hard to be
dyed
 Poor resilience
 Poor adhesion
 Flammable

application
Home furnishings and
automotive markets.

Question 8

polyester

Answer 8

advantages 
 Non-absorbent, dries
quickly
 Good drape
 Very durable
 Crease resistant
 Can be recycled

disadvantages
 Low warmth

application 
Raincoats, fleece
jackets, children's
nightwear, medical
textiles and working
clothes