Study Unit 3.4

Question 1

Fibre properties and fabric performance/serviceability

Answer 1

In fibre and fabric selection the end-use is a key consideration. The serviceability (suitability for the intended use) of the fabric relates to the properties of the fibre (Table 3.5). Textile serviceability encompasses five concepts of aesthetics, durability, comfort, appearance retention and care.

Question 2

Aesthetic qualities

Answer 2

A textile product should be attractive and have an appropriate appearance for its end- use. For some items of apparel, for example a ball-gown, aesthetic properties may be the overriding criterion. Aesthetic qualities include lustre, drape (the manner in which a fabric falls or hangs), texture (the nature of the fabric surface), hand (how the fabric feels – crisp, silky, harsh, soft, dry, smooth, rough) and colour (natural colour or colour after dyeing). Yarn and fabric constructions play a large role in the aesthetic qualities of fabrics. You will learn more about yarn and fabric constructions in module, CLO3704.

Question 3

Durability properties

Answer 3

A textile product should have a life-time that is adequate for its end-use. The requirement for durability can fluctuate with economic indicators. When money is freely available, textiles might be bought for aesthetic qualities or comfort rather than durability. When times are hard, textiles are more likely to be bought with durability in mind. For some products, such as carpets or upholstery fabrics, where fashions change slowly, durability is a major factor as the products must last many years. Durability properties include abrasion resistance, strength, flexibility and elongation/elasticity.

Question 4

Comfort properties

Answer 4

Textile products should generally be comfortable to wear or use. Comfort is subjective and may vary under different climatic conditions and physical activity. Comfort properties include moisture absorption, static, heat conduction, density and wicking.

Question 5

Appearance retention

Answer 5

Wear and care of textiles should not impact too negatively on their appearance. Appearance retention includes resiliency (wrinkling/creasing), dimensional stability, elasticity and recovery, shrinkage and pilling. The care of textiles involves cleaning and storage considerations. Easy care is an important requirement for some garments. Improper care can result in a decrease in aesthetic qualities, durability and comfort. Besides washing and drying requirements, care properties include resistance to chemicals, light, microorganisms, insects and heat.