Fabric 101: What’s The Difference?
Fabric is all around us. Countless things in our daily lives are made out of fabric, including clothes, curtains, bags, and much more. But what’s the difference between certain fabrics? Why is cotton sometimes used instead of polyester, or vice versa? The answer to this question lies in the three main categories of fabric: natural, synthetic, and semi-synthetic.
Natural fabrics are made from fibers derived directly from plants and animals. They are the most eco-friendly category of fabric, as they are biodegradable and don’t release harmful microplastics into the environment when washed. In addition to their environmental benefits, natural fabrics are also highly breathable, moisture-wicking, and gentle on skin. Natural fabrics can be divided into two categories based on their origins: plant- and animal-based. Common plant-based fabrics include cotton and linen, which are commonly used for sewing apparel, home upholstery, and reusable bags. Examples of animal-based fabrics include wool and silk. Wool, as well as other natural fur fabrics, is great for sewing things such as warm clothing, while silk is best used for luxurious apparel and is valued for its draping properties.
Synthetic fabrics are the exact opposite of natural fabrics, as they are made from chemically manufactured fibres as opposed to plant- or animal-based materials. These fabrics have many advantages, including moisture-wicking properties, ease of care, durability, and resistance to wrinkles. Synthetic fabrics are sometimes mixed with natural fabrics to produce blended fabrics, including poly-cotton, poly-wool, and cotton-spandex. Blended fabrics include the best qualities from both synthetic and natural fabrics, which creates durability, stretch, and ease of care. Popular synthetic fabrics include polyester, nylon, and spandex. Polyester is often used for everyday apparel and bedding due to its durability and wrinkle resistance, while both nylon and spandex can be used for activewear and swimwear because of their strength and flexibility.
Semi-synthetic fabrics are produced from natural fibres that undergo chemical processing before being spun into thread. This process allows semi-synthetic fabrics to share many of the same qualities as synthetic fabrics. As a result, semi-synthetic fabrics can be a more environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic fabrics. Semi-synthetic fabrics are typically breathable, durable, and comfortable. Popular examples include viscose rayon, modal, and bamboo fabric. These fabrics are often used for projects such as apparel, blankets, and linens. However, semi-synthetic fabrics should not be used when stretch, water resistance, or durability is necessary, such as in swimwear, activewear, and heavy-duty gear.