Textile Fibres
This domain tests fibre classification, the link between fibre properties and fabric performance, and simple identification methods used in a workshop.
Core concepts
- Natural fibres come from plants (cotton, linen, jute), animals (wool, silk) or minerals. Man-made fibres are manufactured; regenerated fibres such as viscose are cellulosic, while synthetic fibres include polyester, nylon and acrylic.
- Staple fibres are short and must be twisted into yarn; filament fibres are long continuous strands. Silk and polyester can be filament; cotton is staple.
- Properties to compare include absorbency, strength, elasticity, warmth, shrink resistance and abrasion resistance.
- Simple tests include burning, feeling, tearing and microscopic viewing. A burn test must be done safely on a small sample with tongs, away from flammable material.
Worked example
A sample burns quickly with a paper-like smell and leaves soft grey ash. A second sample shrinks away from the flame, melts, gives black smoke and forms a hard bead. Reason: the first behaviour matches cotton, a cellulosic natural fibre; the second matches a synthetic such as polyester. The conclusion should be confirmed by feel and use, because blends and finishes can change burning behaviour.
Traps that cost marks
Do not call viscose a natural fibre; it is regenerated from cellulose. Do not say all natural fibres are absorbent - wool absorbs moisture but repels water droplets differently. Do not confuse staple length with fineness. Never rely on one test alone for a blend.
Exam focus
Classification tables, property-to-use matching and safety-aware identification questions are common.