Fibers
By; Amy Lankford
Cotton
Cotton is mainly produced in the United states, its's incredibly soft and durable. The only down side is that it wrinkles easily and absorbs perspiration. Cotton is normally used for clothing and household items like bath towles or robes.
Flax/Linen
Linen fabric is made from the cellulose fibers that grow inside of the stalks of the flax plant, it cool and comfortable to wear but wrinkles easily. Linen is normally mixed with other materials and is used for everyday wear.
Wool
Wool comes from sheep and is a natural isolator, its also flame resistant. The bad thing about wool is that it traps odors and moisture. Wool is normally used to make clothing and knit wear.
Silk
Silk comes from silk worms and was originally produced in China. Silk is very cool and comfortable but it absorbs moisture and has poor resistance to sunlight. Silk is normally used for clothing and home furnishing like sheets.
Acetate
Acetate fabrics are made with spun filaments of cellulose taken from wood, its very soft, silky, and durable. The disadvantages of acetate is that it absorbs poorly and is weak when it gets wet. Acetate is used in many different types of textiles such as clothing and upholstery.
Rayon
Rayon comes from bamboo, it is very absorbent and spins well with other fiber. Some of the problems are that its expensive and it burns easily. Rayon is mainly used for clothing such as dresses, shirts, and ties.
Lyocell
Lyocell comes from the pull of eucalyptus trees. It's very eco friendly and it washes easily but its expensive. Lyocell is normally spun with other fabrics such as cotton or wool but it can be woven in to any other type of fabric.
Nylon
Nylon is a man made product that is very strong even when its wet. A problem is that it can be damaged by sunlight and it builds up static electricity. Nylon can be used to make machine parts and cookware.
Olefin
Olefin is made from polyolefin and is very strong and comfortable. A down side is that its sensitive to heat and the fabrics can break down over time. Olefin is used or wallpaper, carpeting, ropes, and vehicle interiors.
Polyester
Polyester is made from a plastic compound. It doesn't wrinkles but its builds up static and doesn't absorb that well. Polyester is used to make pillows, comforters and upholstery padding.
Spandex
Spandex is a synthetic fiber that is made of at least 85% polymer. Its lightweight and strong but its heat sensitive and the white the fabric might turn yellow with age. Spandex can be used for many things but is mainly used for athletic wear like swim suits and leotards.