Textile Dictionary | Textile Glossary

Bicomponent yarn

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A yarn having two different continuous filament components

Bi-component fibres

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Fibres spun from two different polymers. The most common types are made from polymers which have different melting points and are used for thermal bonding. Another variant is produced from polymers which have differing solubilities.

In this case one polymer may later be dissolved out to leave ultra-fine filaments. An example is the production of suede-like fabrics. This process is also used to create crimping, in order to provide bulk or stretch.

Bias

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The direction diagonally across a piece of fabric at 45º to the warp and weft. Bicomponent fabric: A fabric with two layers.

Bedford cord

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A fabric constructed in such a way as to show rounded cords in the warp direction with pronounced sunken lines between them.

Batt

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Single or multiple sheets of fibre used in the production of nonwoven fabric.

Batik

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A traditional dyeing process in which portions of cloth are coated with wax and therefore resist the dye, enabling distinctive patterns to be created. Batik fabrics are characterised by a streaky or mottled appearance.

Bast fibre

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Fibre obtained from the stems of certain types of plant.

Basket weave

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A textile weave consisting of double threads interlaced to produce a checkered pattern similar to that of a woven basket.

Bandana

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Handkerchief designs in simple colour and white stylised patterns, including spots and paisley.

Ballotini

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Small glass beads which are normally used in reflective paints but which can also be incorporated into fabrics.

Acrylic

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Manmade fiber derived from petrochemical by-products

Acetate

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Manmade fiber composed of acetylated cellulose

Antifungal

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Inhibits or kills fungi.

Alpaca

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A natural hair fiber obtained from the Alpaca sheep, a domesticated member of the llama family. The fiber is most commonly used in fabrics for dresses, suits, coats, and sweaters.

Aramid

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A manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long chain of synthetic polyamide in which at least 85% of the amide linkages are attached directly to two aromatic rings. Aramid fabrics are very strong and are resistant to high temperatures and extreme external forces. Aramid fabrics are used in thermally protective clothing; (i.e. coveralls, jackets, gloves, shirts, pants). U.S. FTC Definition: A manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polyamide in that is at least 85% of the amide linkages are attached directly to two aromatic rings.

Anti-Static

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Can be either a fiber or fabric that does not allow the build-up of static electricity to occur when the fiber or fabric experiences friction or rubbing.

Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Microbial

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A fabric that has been chemically treated or a fiber that is created by incorporating the anti-bacterial chemical agent into the fiber formula, making the finished fiber or fabric resistant to, or inhibiting the growth of micro-organisms.

Angora

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The hair of the Angora goat. Also known as Angora mohair. Angora may also apply to the fur of the Angora rabbit. However, according to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, any apparel containing Angora rabbit hair must be labeled as "Angora rabbit hair" on the garment.

Algaecide

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Kills algae.

Air Permeability

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The porosity of a fabric as estimated by the ease with which air passes through it. Air permeability measures the warmth of blankets, the air resistance of parachute cloth, the wind resistance of sailcloth, etc. as measured on standard testing equipment.

Acrylic

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A manufactured fiber derived from polyacrylonitrile. Its major properties include a soft, wool-like hand, machine washable and dryable, excellent color retention. Solution-dyed versions have excellent resistance to sunlight and chlorine degradation.

Acetate

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A manufactured fiber formed by a compound of cellulose, refined from cotton linters and/or wood pulp, and acedic acid that has been extruded through a spinneret and then hardened.

Absorbency

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The ability of a fabric to take in moisture. Absorbency is a very important property, which effects many other characteristics such as skin comfort, static build-up, shrinkage, stain removal, water repellency, and wrinkle recovery.

Abrasion Resistance

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The degree by which a fabric is able to withstand loss of appearance through surface wear, rubbing, chafing, and other frictional actions.

Applique

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A separate decoration that is then embroidered, sewn on the surface of another fabric or garment.