Manufactured Fibers
By: Destinee Johnson
Polyester
- made from coal or petroleum
- strong and often blended with other fibers
- resistant to wrinkling
- shrink and stretch resistant
- easy to care for
- great washability
- pills easily
- static buildup
- children's wear
- shirts
- suits
Nylon
- first fiber to be manufactured totally from chemicals
- strong, durable, elastic
- dries quickly
- resists wrinkles and soil
- washes easily
- heat sensitive
- clings to the wearer
- hosiery
- swimwear
- windbreakers
Acrylic
- resembles wool
- soft and warm
- bulky yet lightweight
- quick drying
- strong
- wrinkle resistant
- static buildup
- pills easily
- terrycloth
- bathrobes
- knitted garments
- outdoor furniture fabrics and awnings
Rayon
- soft, absorbent, and comfortable
- inexpensive
- stretches and is weak when wet
- mildews and wrinkles easily
- linings
- sports shirts
- jackets
Acetate
- very versatile
- inexpensive and easy to dye
- silky, luxurious
- deep luster, soft
- wrinkles easily
- special care needed in cleaning
- neckties
- lingerie
- blouses
- linings
Spandex
- known for its ability to stretch
- resistant to lotions, oils, sun, and perspiration
- easily damaged by chlorine bleach
- soft, lightweight
- durable
- nonabsorbent
- swimwear
- dance wear
- exercise wear