Textiles are made from fibres, classified as either natural or manufactured. Fibres are twisted into yarns before being made into woven, knitted or bonded fabrics.
Surface treatments can add decoration, protection and function to a textile:
printing - an image inkjet printed onto specially treated paper can be heat pressed onto fabric to provide a permanent image
flame retardant - chemical additives can be sprayed onto fabric to slow down its burn time
water repellent - silicone-based chemicals can be sprayed on to provide a protective barrier
crease resistant - a resin can be applied to stop creases setting
stain resistant - a silicone-based spray can stop stains being absorbed into the fabric
calenderingA calender is a heated roller used to press fabric and paper. - calendering sends fabric through heated rollers and makes it smooth
brushing - fabric is sent through a series of fine wire-toothed rollers, which gives it a soft, fluffy surface
embossing - synthetic fibres are sent through heated, decorative rollers pressing the pattern texture into the fabric
biostoningA method used to ‘stonewash’ denim so that faded patches are produced. - adding a cellulose enzyme to the washing process causes a stonewashed, distressed effectA surface finish that makes something look old or worn.; mainly used on denim
mercerisingSodium hydroxide is added to the fibres making them swell to give a shiny appearance and soft touch. - especially used on cotton, sodium hydroxide is added to the fibres making them swell to give a shiny appearance
