APPAREL / TEXTILE CARE SYMBOLS

FABRIC LEXICON

Natural Fabrics

1. Cotton (CO)
   • Explanation: A soft and breathable fabric derived from the fluffy seed fibers of the cotton plant.
   • Applications: T-shirts, blouses, dresses, baby clothes, pajamas, bed linens.
   • Fun Fact: Cotton is one of the world's oldest fabrics, used for over 7,000 years.

2. Linen (LI)
   • Explanation: A durable and lightweight fabric made from flax fibers.
   • Applications: Summer clothing such as trousers, dresses, tablecloths, curtains.
   • Fun Fact: Linen is three times stronger than cotton and gets softer after every wash.

3. Hemp (HE)
   • Explanation: An eco-friendly and sustainable fiber derived from the hemp plant.
   • Applications: Trousers, jackets, T-shirts, bags.
   • Fun Fact: Hemp has antibacterial properties and requires minimal water to grow.

4. Jute (JU)
   • Explanation: A strong, coarse fiber harvested from plant stems.
   • Applications: Bags, curtains, decorative accessories.
   • Fun Fact: Jute is often called the "golden fiber" due to its natural shine.

5. Bamboo (BA)
   • Explanation: A soft and antibacterial fabric made from bamboo fibers.
   • Applications: Underwear, socks, sportswear, soft dresses.
   • Fun Fact: Bamboo grows incredibly fast, up to 90 cm in just 24 hours.

6. Ramie (RA)
   • Explanation: A strong and glossy fabric derived from the ramie plant.
   • Applications: Blouses, dresses, curtains.
   • Fun Fact: Ramie has been used for over 6,000 years, especially in China and Southeast Asia.

7. Kapok (KA)
   • Explanation: A lightweight and water-resistant fiber sourced from the kapok tree.
   • Applications: Padded jackets, lightweight clothing, cushions.
   • Fun Fact: Kapok is seven times lighter than cotton, making it perfect for filling materials.

8. Banana Fabric (BN)
   • Explanation: An eco-friendly fabric made from banana fibers extracted from the plant's stem.
   • Applications: Eco-friendly dresses, tops, light accessories like scarves.
   • Fun Fact: Using banana fibers prevents waste from banana plants.

9. Coconut Fiber (KV)
   • Explanation: A sturdy fiber derived from coconuts.
   • Applications: Belts, decorative details, rigid accessories.
   • Fun Fact: Coconut fiber is often used as mattress filling because of its durability.

10. Silk (SE)
    • Explanation: A luxurious and glossy fabric produced by silkworms.
    • Applications: Evening wear, lingerie, scarves, veils.
    • Fun Fact: Producing one kilogram of silk requires approximately 6,000 silkworms.

11. Wool (WO)
    • Explanation: A warm and insulating fabric derived from sheep.
    • Applications: Sweaters, coats, dresses, scarves, hats.
    • Fun Fact: Wool is naturally wrinkle- and flame-resistant.

12. Cashmere (WS)
    • Explanation: A luxurious wool made from the fleece of cashmere goats.
    • Applications: Sweaters, coats, scarves, gloves.
    • Fun Fact: Cashmere is softer, finer, and lighter than regular wool.

13. Alpaca (WP)
    • Explanation: A hypoallergenic and soft wool from alpacas.
    • Applications: Ponchos, winter sweaters, blankets, accessories.
    • Fun Fact: Alpaca wool is warmer and stronger than sheep's wool.

14. Angora (WA)
    • Explanation: An exceptionally soft wool sourced from angora rabbits.
    • Applications: Sweaters, hats, gloves.
    • Fun Fact: Angora wool is known for its fluffy texture and lightness.

15. Mohair (WM)
    • Explanation: A shiny fiber derived from angora goats.
    • Applications: Coats, luxurious sweaters, scarves.
    • Fun Fact: Mohair is called the "diamond fiber" because of its luxurious appearance.

16. Camel Hair (WK)
    • Explanation: A warm fiber obtained from the fleece of camels.
    • Applications: Winter coats, jackets.
    • Fun Fact: Camel hair is especially popular in colder climates for its superior insulation.

17. Yak Wool (WY)
    • Explanation: A soft and durable wool from yaks.
    • Applications: Sweaters, scarves, jackets.
    • Fun Fact: Yak wool is naturally water-repellent and ideal for extreme cold.

18. Vicuña Wool (WV)
    • Explanation: One of the most exclusive types of wool, sourced from the vicuña.
    • Applications: Luxury coats, scarves.
    • Fun Fact: Vicuña wool is extremely rare and valuable.

19. Lotus Fiber (LO)
    • Explanation: An eco-friendly fiber extracted from the stems of lotus flowers.
    • Applications: Luxury dresses, scarves.
    • Fun Fact: Producing lotus fiber is a time-intensive process, making it highly exclusive.

20. Pina (PN)
    • Explanation: A glossy fabric made from pineapple leaves.
    • Applications: Decorative dresses, accessories like scarves.
    • Fun Fact: Pina was popular in the royal courts of ancient Philippines.

21. Milk Fiber (ME)
    • Explanation: A silky fiber made from casein, a protein found in milk.
    • Applications: Underwear, T-shirts, soft dresses.
    • Fun Fact: Milk fiber is considered one of the first bioplastic fabrics.

Synthetic Fabrics

1. Polyester (PES)
   • Explanation: A strong and versatile synthetic fiber made from petroleum.
   • Applications: Sportswear, jackets, bags, linings, decorative fabrics.
   • Fun Fact: Polyester is one of the most widely used fabrics globally and can be recycled into new fibers.

2. Nylon (PA)
   • Explanation: An elastic and wear-resistant synthetic fabric made from polyamide.
   • Applications: Pantyhose, swimwear, sports gear, backpacks.
   • Fun Fact: Nylon was the first completely synthetic fabric in the world and became popular in the 1940s.

3. Acrylic (PAN)
   • Explanation: A soft, warm, and lightweight fabric often used as an affordable alternative to wool.
   • Applications: Knitted sweaters, scarves, blankets, gloves.
   • Fun Fact: Acrylic feels like wool but is much more resistant to moths and mildew.

4. Spandex (Elastane, EA)
   • Explanation: Extremely elastic fibers often combined with other materials for stretch.
   • Applications: Sportswear, leggings, swimwear, compression clothing.
   • Fun Fact: Spandex can stretch up to five times its length without breaking.

5. Viscose (CV)
   • Explanation: A soft and silky fabric made from chemically processed cellulose.
   • Applications: Blouses, dresses, linings, curtains.
   • Fun Fact: Although made from natural cellulose, viscose is considered semi-synthetic due to the chemical process.

6. Lyocell (CLY)
   • Explanation: An eco-friendly alternative to viscose, produced from eucalyptus fibers.
   • Applications: Soft dresses, T-shirts, sportswear, bedding.
   • Fun Fact: Lyocell is often sold under the brand name Tencel.

7. Acetate (CA)
   • Explanation: A shiny and lightweight fabric made from modified cellulose fibers.
   • Applications: Linings, evening dresses, skirts, curtains.
   • Fun Fact: Acetate is known for its silky sheen and is widely used in linings.

8. Rayon (CV)
   • Explanation: A regenerated cellulose fiber with a silky texture.
   • Applications: Dresses, blouses, curtains, decorative fabrics.
   • Fun Fact: Rayon is one of the first semi-synthetic fabrics, developed in the late 19th century.

9. Polypropylene (PP)
   • Explanation: A lightweight and water-resistant synthetic fiber.
   • Applications: Sportswear, thermal underwear, bags, carpets.
   • Fun Fact: Polypropylene is one of the most used materials for technical and functional clothing.

10. Kevlar (KV)
    • Explanation: An extremely strong and durable fiber, known for its use in protective clothing.
    • Applications: Bulletproof vests, safety clothing, technical applications.
    • Fun Fact: Kevlar is five times stronger than steel yet lightweight.

11. Microfiber
    • Explanation: A synthetic fabric made from ultrafine fibers, usually polyester or nylon.
    • Applications: Sportswear, furniture, cleaning cloths, jacket linings.
    • Fun Fact: Microfiber is popular for its exceptional softness and moisture absorption.

12. Thinsulate
    • Explanation: A thin yet effective synthetic insulation fabric.
    • Applications: Winter coats, gloves, boots, blankets.
    • Fun Fact: Thinsulate traps heat without adding bulk, making it ideal for slim winter clothing.

13. Gore-Tex (GTX)
    • Explanation: A breathable, waterproof, and windproof fabric often used in outdoor clothing.
    • Applications: Rainwear, hiking jackets, winter sports clothing.
    • Fun Fact: Gore-Tex features a thin membrane with 9 billion pores per square inch, keeping moisture out while remaining breathable.

14. Laminated Cotton (LAM CO)
    • Explanation: Cotton coated with a plastic layer to provide waterproofing.
    • Applications: Raincoats, bags, children's products, tablecloths.
    • Fun Fact: This fabric combines the softness of cotton with the functionality of a waterproof coating.

15. Neoprene (NE)
    • Explanation: A synthetic rubber material that is insulating and stretchable.
    • Applications: Wetsuits, sportswear, accessories like bags.
    • Fun Fact: Neoprene is also used in medical braces and technical applications for its shock-absorbing properties.

16. Teflon-Coated Fabric (TE)
    • Explanation: Textiles coated with Teflon to make them dirt- and water-repellent.
    • Applications: Outdoor jackets, rainwear, workwear.
    • Fun Fact: Teflon coating makes fabrics easier to maintain and more resistant to wear.

17. Chlorofiber (CLF)
    • Explanation: Chemically resistant and thermoregulating fibers made from modified polymers.
    • Applications: Workwear, technical applications.
    • Fun Fact: Chlorofiber is often used in workwear due to its resistance to chemicals and heat.

18. Recycled Polyester (rPES)
    • Explanation: Polyester fibers made from recycled plastic, such as PET bottles.
    • Applications: Eco-friendly clothing, sportswear, accessories.
    • Fun Fact: Recycling polyester reduces waste and saves energy compared to new polyester.

19. Hypalon
    • Explanation: A synthetic rubber material resistant to extreme temperatures and chemicals.
    • Applications: Tent fabrics, technical clothing, boats.
    • Fun Fact: Hypalon is often used in industrial applications for its strength and durability.

20. Technical Stretch Fabric
    • Explanation: Elastic fabrics made from polyesters or polyamides, specially developed for sports and activewear.
    • Applications: Leggings, sports trousers, dancewear.
    • Fun Fact: Technical stretch fabrics are often combined with moisture-wicking technologies for comfort.

FABRIC LEXICON

Composite Fabrics

1. Polyester-Cotton Blend (PES-CO)
   • Explanation: A mix of polyester and cotton that combines the breathability of cotton with the durability of polyester.
   • Applications: Shirts, uniforms, sportswear, skirts.
   • Fun Fact: Polyester-cotton fabrics wrinkle less than pure cotton and are easier to maintain.

2. Stretch Denim (CO-EL)
   • Explanation: Denim blended with elastane to make the fabric stretchable and comfortable.
   • Applications: Jeans, skirts, trousers.
   • Fun Fact: Stretch denim provides greater freedom of movement and is popular for skinny jeans.

3. Wool-Polyester Blend (WO-PES)
   • Explanation: A combination of wool and polyester that retains wool's warmth while adding wrinkle resistance.
   • Applications: Coats, formal wear like suits, blazers.
   • Fun Fact: This blend is often cheaper and less maintenance-intensive than pure wool.

4. Silk-Wool Blend (SE-WO)
   • Explanation: A luxurious mix that combines the smoothness of silk with the insulation of wool.
   • Applications: Luxury sweaters, scarves, evening wear.
   • Fun Fact: This blend is perfect for soft, warm, and elegant garments.

5. Linen-Cotton Blend (LI-CO)
   • Explanation: A combination of linen and cotton that results in a breathable and sturdy fabric.
   • Applications: Summer clothing like blouses, skirts, dresses, curtains.
   • Fun Fact: Linen-cotton fabrics are less prone to wrinkling than pure linen.

6. Acrylic-Wool Blend (PAN-WO)
   • Explanation: This blend combines the warmth of wool with the durability and affordability of acrylic.
   • Applications: Knitted sweaters, scarves, gloves.
   • Fun Fact: Acrylic-wool blends often feel lighter than pure wool.

7. Elastane-Cotton Blend (EL-CO)
   • Explanation: A mix of elastane and cotton to make the fabric stretchable and comfortable.
   • Applications: T-shirts, leggings, casual trousers, dresses.
   • Fun Fact: This blend is ideal for form-fitting clothing that requires flexibility and breathability.

8. Wool-Silk Blend (WO-SE)
   • Explanation: A luxurious blend that offers warmth and a soft, shiny surface.
   • Applications: Sweaters, scarves, coats.
   • Fun Fact: Wool-silk blends are beloved in high-end winter fashion for their elegant appearance and warmth.

9. Cotton-Acrylic Blend (CO-PAN)
   • Explanation: This combination provides the softness of cotton and the lightness of acrylic.
   • Applications: Sweaters, cardigans, children's clothing.
   • Fun Fact: Cotton-acrylic blends retain their color and shape better after washing.

10. Viscose-Polyester Blend (CV-PES)
    • Explanation: A mix of viscose and polyester that combines the silky texture of viscose with the strength of polyester.
    • Applications: Trousers, blouses, jacket linings.
    • Fun Fact: This blend wrinkles less and is more durable than pure viscose.

11. Stretch Velvet (EL-PES)
    • Explanation: Velvet with a touch of elastane or polyester for extra stretch and durability.
    • Applications: Party dresses, skirts, trousers, decorative fabrics.
    • Fun Fact: Stretch velvet retains its luxurious sheen even after multiple washes.

12. Denim-Polyester Blend (CO-PES)
    • Explanation: Denim enriched with polyester for extra durability and reduced wear.
    • Applications: Jeans, work trousers, overalls.
    • Fun Fact: This blend extends the lifespan of denim and makes it easier to maintain.

13. Bamboo-Cotton Blend (BA-CO)
    • Explanation: A combination of bamboo fibers and cotton, providing softness and breathability.
    • Applications: Underwear, T-shirts, bed linens.
    • Fun Fact: This blend combines bamboo's antibacterial effects with cotton's comfort properties.

14. Polyester-Cashmere Blend (PES-WS)
    • Explanation: A mix that combines the softness of cashmere with the strength of polyester.
    • Applications: Luxury sweaters, coats, winter accessories.
    • Fun Fact: This blend makes cashmere less maintenance-intensive and more affordable.

15. Recycled Fabric Blends (Various Combinations)
    • Explanation: Made from recycled fibers such as cotton, polyester, or wool.
    • Applications: Eco-friendly clothing, sportswear, bags.
    • Fun Fact: Blends of recycled fabrics help reduce waste and give old textiles a new life.

16. Wool-Polyamide Blend (WO-PA)
    • Explanation: Wool combined with polyamide to improve durability and wrinkle resistance.
    • Applications: Socks, coats, sweaters.
    • Fun Fact: This blend is ideal for clothing that lasts long with everyday use.

17. Silk-Viscose Blend (SE-CV)
    • Explanation: A combination of silk and viscose that offers a luxurious look and a flowing texture.
    • Applications: Evening dresses, blouses, scarves.
    • Fun Fact: This blend is lighter and cheaper than pure silk.

Specialty Fabrics

1. Velvet (VEL)
   • Explanation: A luxurious, soft fabric with a pile texture that exudes richness.
   • Applications: Evening dresses, skirts, curtains, cushions.
   • Fun Fact: Velvet was originally made from silk and was considered a status symbol during the Middle Ages.

2. Satin (SAT)
   • Explanation: A smooth and glossy fabric woven with a satin weave.
   • Applications: Evening dresses, lingerie, bedsheets, decorative garments.
   • Fun Fact: Satin features a shiny front and a matte back, making it perfect for elegant designs.

3. Chiffon (CHF)
   • Explanation: A thin, sheer fabric with an airy texture.
   • Applications: Party dresses, veils, blouses.
   • Fun Fact: Chiffon is often layered to create a light and flowing look.

4. Tulle (TUL)
   • Explanation: A lightweight, open-weave net fabric.
   • Applications: Bridal dresses, ballet tutus, decorative details.
   • Fun Fact: Tulle is frequently used to add volume and structure to garments.

5. Organza (ORG)
   • Explanation: A transparent and stiff fabric with a shiny finish.
   • Applications: Evening dresses, decorative elements, veils.
   • Fun Fact: Traditional organza is made from silk, though synthetic fibers like polyester are commonly used today.

6. Jacquard (JAC)
   • Explanation: A fabric featuring intricately woven patterns, often with raised designs.
   • Applications: Evening dresses, curtains, skirts, jackets.
   • Fun Fact: The Jacquard weaving technique was invented in 1804, revolutionizing patterned fabric production.

7. Corduroy (CORD)
   • Explanation: A ribbed fabric that is sturdy and warm.
   • Applications: Trousers, jackets, children's clothing, shirts.
   • Fun Fact: Corduroy, also known as ribbed velvet, was especially popular in the 1970s.

8. Georgette (GEO)
   • Explanation: A lightweight, semi-sheer fabric with a crinkled texture.
   • Applications: Evening dresses, blouses, skirts.
   • Fun Fact: Georgette was originally made from silk and is named after French designer Georgette de la Plante.

9. Lining Fabric (VOI)
   • Explanation: A smooth and lightweight fabric used to line garments.
   • Applications: Linings for jackets, coats, skirts, and dresses.
   • Fun Fact: Lining fabrics like viscose or acetate enhance the comfort and durability of clothing.

10. Brocade (BRO)
    • Explanation: A heavy fabric with woven relief patterns, often made with gold or silver threads.
    • Applications: Evening wear, skirts, upholstery, curtains.
    • Fun Fact: Brocade was traditionally used for royal garments and religious vestments.

11. Stretch Satin (STS)
    • Explanation: A satin fabric with added elastane for stretch.
    • Applications: Party dresses, tops, fitted skirts.
    • Fun Fact: The stretch feature makes it more comfortable for form-fitting designs.

12. Denim (DEN)
    • Explanation: A durable cotton fabric woven in a twill pattern.
    • Applications: Jeans, jackets, overalls, skirts.
    • Fun Fact: Denim was originally used as workwear due to its durability and wear resistance.

13. Neoprene (NEO)
    • Explanation: A synthetic rubber material that is flexible and insulating.
    • Applications: Sportswear, accessories, wetsuits.
    • Fun Fact: Neoprene is often used in modern fashion designs because of its unique structure.

14. Mesh (MES)
    • Explanation: A breathable fabric with an open, grid-like structure.
    • Applications: Sportswear, dancewear, decorative details.
    • Fun Fact: Mesh is popular in sportswear for its excellent ventilation.

15. Tweed (TWE)
    • Explanation: A sturdy, coarse-woven wool fabric with a characteristic texture.
    • Applications: Coats, skirts, jackets.
    • Fun Fact: Tweed can be woven in complex patterns, such as herringbone or houndstooth.

16. Gabardine (GAB)
    • Explanation: A tightly woven fabric, usually made from wool or cotton.
    • Applications: Coats, trousers, jackets.
    • Fun Fact: Gabardine was patented in 1879 by Thomas Burberry.

17. Glitter Fabric (GLI)
    • Explanation: A decorative fabric with glitter and sparkling elements.
    • Applications: Party wear, accessories, stage costumes.
    • Fun Fact: Glitter fabrics are widely used in dance and stage costumes for their eye-catching appearance.

18. Laminated Cotton (LAM)
    • Explanation: Cotton coated with a plastic layer, making it waterproof.
    • Applications: Rainwear, kids' bags, tablecloths.
    • Fun Fact: Laminated cotton combines style with functionality, ideal for rainy days.

19. Faux Fur (FUR)
    • Explanation: A synthetic alternative to fur, with a soft and fluffy texture.
    • Applications: Coats, jackets, decorative accents.
    • Fun Fact: Faux fur is a cruelty-free alternative that is increasingly popular in fashion.

20. Ripstop (RIP)
    • Explanation: A lightweight and tear-resistant fabric with a grid pattern.
    • Applications: Outdoor clothing, rainwear, backpacks.
    • Fun Fact: Ripstop was originally developed for military use due to its durability.

Technical Fabrics

1. Gore-Tex (GTX)
   • Explanation: A waterproof, breathable, and windproof fabric often used in outdoor clothing.
   • Applications: Rain jackets, outdoor trousers, hiking clothes, ski wear.
   • Fun Fact: Gore-Tex features microscopic pores smaller than water droplets but larger than water vapor, making it waterproof yet breathable.

2. Kevlar (KV)
   • Explanation: An extremely strong and heat-resistant fiber, known for its use in protective clothing.
   • Applications: Bulletproof vests, safety wear, technical accessories.
   • Fun Fact: Kevlar is five times stronger than steel yet lightweight, making it popular in industrial applications.

3. Nomex (NX)
   • Explanation: A flame-retardant synthetic fiber developed for use in fire-resistant clothing.
   • Applications: Firefighter uniforms, racing suits, workwear for hazardous environments.
   • Fun Fact: Nomex retains its flame-resistant properties even after repeated washing and use.

4. Thinsulate (THS)
   • Explanation: A thin yet effective insulation fabric often used in winter clothing.
   • Applications: Winter coats, gloves, shoes, blankets.
   • Fun Fact: Thinsulate traps heat without adding bulk, making it ideal for slim-fitting winter clothing.

5. Ripstop Nylon (RIP-N)
   • Explanation: A lightweight, tear-resistant fabric with a grid pattern that provides extra strength.
   • Applications: Outdoor jackets, parachutes, backpacks, technical garments.
   • Fun Fact: This fabric was originally developed for military purposes due to its durability and strength.

6. Reflective Fabric (REF)
   • Explanation: A textile with a reflective coating designed to enhance visibility in dark conditions.
   • Applications: Safety clothing, sportswear, accessories like bags.
   • Fun Fact: Reflective fabrics are often used by cyclists and runners to increase their safety.

7. Windstopper Fabric (WND)
   • Explanation: A breathable fabric specifically designed to block wind.
   • Applications: Outdoor jackets, gloves, winter sports clothing.
   • Fun Fact: Windstopper fabrics provide excellent protection without compromising ventilation.

8. Water-Repellent Fabric (WRF)
   • Explanation: A fabric treated with a special coating to make it water-repellent.
   • Applications: Rainwear, umbrellas, outdoor bags.
   • Fun Fact: Many water-repellent fabrics are treated with durable water-repellent (DWR) technology.

9. Self-Cleaning Fabric (SCF)
   • Explanation: An innovative fabric that is dirt- and water-repellent, keeping itself clean.
   • Applications: Sportswear, outdoor jackets, technical uses.
   • Fun Fact: Self-cleaning fabrics often use nanotechnology inspired by lotus leaves.

10. Coolmax (CLMX)
    • Explanation: A moisture-wicking and breathable fiber ideal for activewear.
    • Applications: Sportswear, thermal underwear, socks.
    • Fun Fact: Coolmax is designed to move sweat away from the skin and evaporate quickly.

11. Hypalon (HYP)
    • Explanation: A synthetic rubber resistant to chemicals, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures.
    • Applications: Tent fabrics, technical clothing, boats.
    • Fun Fact: Hypalon is often used in industrial applications due to its extreme durability.

12. Laminated Fabric (LAM)
    • Explanation: A fabric with an additional protective layer, such as waterproof laminates.
    • Applications: Rain jackets, sportswear, bags.
    • Fun Fact: Laminated fabrics combine the softness of textiles with the functionality of technical coatings.

13. Polar Fleece (PF)
    • Explanation: A lightweight and warm synthetic fabric made from polyester fibers.
    • Applications: Winter clothing, sweaters, blankets, outdoor jackets.
    • Fun Fact: Polar fleece was originally designed as a synthetic alternative to wool.

14. Antistatic Fabric (ANT)
    • Explanation: A fabric treated to prevent static electricity.
    • Applications: Workwear, medical clothing, technical uses.
    • Fun Fact: Antistatic fabrics are often used in environments with sensitive electronic equipment.

15. UV-Protective Fabric (UVF)
    • Explanation: Textiles designed to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
    • Applications: Beachwear, sportswear, hats.
    • Fun Fact: UV-protective fabrics are rated with a UV protection factor (UPF), similar to sunscreen.

16. Teflon-Coated Fabric (TEF)
    • Explanation: A fabric treated with a Teflon coating to make it water- and stain-resistant.
    • Applications: Outdoor jackets, workwear, technical uses.
    • Fun Fact: Teflon makes fabrics not only durable but also easy to clean.

17. Biodegradable Technical Fabrics (BIO)
    • Explanation: Fabrics developed to be sustainable and biodegradable after use.
    • Applications: Eco-friendly sportswear, bags, technical projects.
    • Fun Fact: Biodegradable fabrics reduce the environmental impact of textile waste.

18. Stretch Technical Fabrics (STRETCH)
    • Explanation: Elastic fabrics, often made from technical fibers like polyamide and elastane, offering freedom of movement.
    • Applications: Sportswear, leggings, dancewear, technical outfits.
    • Fun Fact: These fabrics are often combined with moisture-wicking technologies to maximize comfort.

19. Flame-Retardant Fabrics (FR)
    • Explanation: Fabrics designed not to ignite or spread flames easily.
    • Applications: Firefighter clothing, industrial safety wear, technical gloves.
    • Fun Fact: Flame-retardant fabrics are often used in workplaces with high temperatures.

20. Breathable Technical Fabrics (BRE)
    • Explanation: Textiles designed to wick moisture away from the body while remaining breathable.
    • Applications: Sportswear, outdoor clothing, rainwear.

TYPES OF FABRIC WEAVES:

There are various types of weaves used to create fabrics for clothing. These weaving techniques define the structure, appearance, and properties of the material.

Here are some of the most common types of weaves:

1. Plain Weave (also known as linen weave)

• Explanation: The simplest and most commonly used weave where the warp and weft threads cross each other alternately. This creates a firm and even fabric.
• Applications: Used in fabrics like cotton, linen, and canvas for clothing, bags, and household textiles.
• Fun Fact: Due to its even structure, plain weave is ideal for printing, making it popular in bedding and T-shirts.

2. Twill Weave

• Explanation: Characterized by diagonal lines in the fabric, created by overlapping the weft threads over multiple warp threads before continuing.
• Applications: Commonly used in denim (jeans fabric) and chinos, as well as coats and work trousers.
• Fun Fact: The diagonal lines make the fabric extra strong and durable. Denim was originally designed as workwear.

3. Satin Weave

• Explanation: In this weave, the weft threads pass over several warp threads before going under, resulting in a smooth, glossy surface.
• Applications: Satin fabrics are often used in eveningwear, lingerie, and bed linens.
• Fun Fact: Satin’s shine comes from more warp threads being on the surface, reflecting light better.

4. Jacquard Weave

• Explanation: A complex weave where patterns and textures are woven directly into the fabric rather than printed on it. Special looms are used for this technique.
• Applications: Used for luxurious fabrics such as brocade and damask in clothing, curtains, and upholstery.
• Fun Fact: This technique was invented in 1804 by Joseph-Marie Jacquard and revolutionized the textile industry.

5. Rib Weave (also known as channel weave)

• Explanation: Here, warp or weft threads are woven to create a ribbed effect.
• Applications: Typically used in corduroy and ribbed velvet, frequently found in trousers and jackets.
• Fun Fact: Corduroy became especially popular in the 1970s and is known as a practical and warm material.

6. Net Weave

• Explanation: This technique creates an open structure, like tulle, where the threads are woven into a grid-like pattern.
• Applications: Commonly used in bridal wear, decorative dresses, and dance costumes.
• Fun Fact: Net weaves are often combined with other fabrics for added volume and texture.

7. Loop Weave (also known as knit weave)

• Explanation: In this weave, threads are looped together, producing a stretchable and breathable fabric.
• Applications: Used in jersey fabrics for T-shirts, sportswear, and underwear.
• Fun Fact: Thanks to its elasticity, jersey is popular for comfortable and casual clothing.

8. Honeycomb Weave

• Explanation: This technique weaves threads into a honeycomb-like pattern, creating texture with depth.
• Applications: Typically used for towels, blankets, and sweaters.
• Fun Fact: The relief of this weave makes it ideal for absorbent fabrics like terry cloth.