4.2 e Flashcards
fibres
natural or synthetic structures that can be spun into yarn
yarn
a long, continuous fibre
threads
thin yarns used in sewing
fabric
cloth produced by weaving, knitting or felting
natural fibres
Originated from plants or animals to be spun into a thread or rope
properties of natural fibres
from plants, animals
usually short
absorb moisture and therefore are ‘breathable’
easily flammable
synthetic fibres
Made from fossil fuels, to become man-made materials that are spun into threads
properties of synthetic fibres
long and much smoother
most are thermoplastics, so will soften when exposed to heat
not likely to absorb much moisture
examples of natural fibres
wool (animal)
cotton (vegetable)
silk (animal – silk cocoon)
examples of synthetic fibres
nylon
polyester
lycra (spandex)
conversion of fibres into yarns
spinning – fibres are spun into yarn. wrapping fibres around each other increases strength and lengthens yarn
conversion of yarns into fabric
weaving – interlacing long threads perpendicular to each other
knitting – interlocking loops of yarn into consecutive rows
lacemaking – made by hand or machine to create intricate decorative patterns
felting – creating dense fabric by using heat and moisture to condense natural fibres together (doesnt require yarns)
ethical considerations of textile industry
many textiles made in developing countries, where work conditions are poor and process is often repetitive
manufacture of textiles is negatively linked to environmental issues, chemical dyes, use of pesticides to grow crops…
environmental considerations of textile industry
raw materials – chemicals used in production of natural fibres + most synthetic fibres are oil based
manufacturing – dyeing, manufacturing textiles is energy intensive
transportation – many textiles are manufactured in one region and are sold in another => transportation carbon footprint
list textile disposal delaying techniques
upcycling
reselling
clothing banks
