Natural Fibres and Fabrics

What are natural fabrics?

Natural fabrics are materials that are made from natural fibers or substances that are produced by plants or animals. These fabrics are often preferred over synthetic materials because they are more breathable, comfortable, and environmentally friendly. Some common natural fabrics include:

  1. Cotton - made from the fibers of the cotton plant

  2. Silk - made from the cocoons of silkworms

  3. Wool - made from the fleece of sheep or other animals such as alpaca or llama

  4. Linen - made from the fibers of the flax plant

  5. Hemp - made from the fibers of the hemp plant

  6. Bamboo - made from the fibers of the bamboo plant

  7. Jute - made from the fibers of the jute plant

  8. Leather - made from animal hide

  9. Fur - made from animal fur


Why make clothing with natural fabrics?

There are several reasons why clothing is made from natural fibers:

  1. Comfort: Natural fibers are generally more breathable and comfortable than synthetic fibers. They allow air to circulate around the body, which helps to regulate body temperature and reduce sweating. This makes natural fiber clothing ideal for warmer climates or for people who have sensitive skin.

  2. Sustainability: Many natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, and hemp, are renewable resources that can be grown and harvested without damaging the environment. Additionally, natural fiber clothing can be biodegradable and can be recycled, reducing the amount of waste produced.

  3. Durability: Natural fibers are often stronger and more durable than synthetic fibers. This means that clothing made from natural fibers can last longer and withstand wear and tear better than synthetic clothing.

  4. Style: Natural fibers have a unique look and feel that cannot be replicated by synthetic fibers. For example, silk has a luxurious sheen, while wool has a soft, cozy texture.

  5. Health: Natural fibers are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions than synthetic fibers, making them a safer choice for people with sensitive skin.

Overall, clothing made from natural fibers is a more sustainable, comfortable, and healthy choice for both people and the environment.

Testing for natural fabric

There are a few ways to test if your dresses are made from natural fibers:

  1. Burn Test: Take a small piece of the fabric from an inconspicuous area of the dress and burn it with a lighter or match. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, silk, and wool will burn and smell like burnt hair. They will also leave behind a fine ash residue. Synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and rayon will melt, curl, and produce a plastic-like smell.

  2. Texture Test: Natural fibers have a distinctive texture and feel compared to synthetic fibers. For example, cotton is typically soft and breathable, while wool is often thick and scratchy. Synthetic fibers can sometimes feel slippery or plasticky to the touch.

  3. Label Check: Check the label on your dress to see what materials it is made of. Natural fibers will usually be listed as cotton, linen, silk, wool, or other similar materials. Synthetic fibers will be listed as polyester, nylon, rayon, or other man-made materials.

  4. Water Test: Natural fibers like cotton and linen absorb water, while synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon repel water. To test this, put a small amount of water on a hidden area of the dress and see if it is absorbed or repelled.

It's important to note that some dresses may be made of a blend of natural and synthetic fibers, so it's always best to check the label and use a combination of the above tests to determine the composition of the fabric.