Surface treatments and finishes
finishA protective or decorative layer added to a product such as varnish or paint. are applied to fibres and fabrics to either enhance the aestheticHow something looks. appearance of the material or to protect it from general wear to ensure it lasts longer.
Surface treatments can add decoration, protection and function to a textile:
- printing - inkjet printing 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 onto 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
