What is Cotton?

Cotton is a fiber derived from a plant called cotton. Cotton is grown in many countries of the world: USA, Egypt, India, Pakistan, China, Brazil, Central Asia, Transcaucasia. The production of cotton clothing has spread relatively recently: in the 19th century.

Cotton fabrics and knitwear "breathe" (which is especially important in summer), they can be washed in washing machine(with rare exceptions). Good cotton fabrics are comfortable, durable, wear-resistant and beautiful to look at. Of the shortcomings of this material, it is worth noting the tendency to crease, as well as slight shrinkage during washing.

Knitwear or fabric?

There are products from both "knitted" cotton and cotton fabrics. T-shirts, polo shirts, jumpers, cardigans and pullovers are mainly made from knitwear; jeans, jackets, blazers, trousers, shirts, blouses, etc. made of fabric. Jerseys are softer and more elastic than fabric ones, they stretch more. Wear resistance can be high both for knitted items and for items made of fabric.

It is worth noting that cotton jumpers and cardigans do not warm very well. A woolen jumper retains heat better, although it tends to be more expensive. In general, when buying a cotton jumper / sweater, do not expect that you will be warm in it in late autumn and even more so in winter.

Double strand yarn (2-ply, 2-fold, double-twisted)

Cotton fabrics can be produced from both single and double yarns. Preferable, of course, are fabrics made of two-strand yarn (as they say, double-twisted cotton, 2-ply or 2-fold cotton) - they are more wear-resistant and more durable, withstand much more washes. In addition, these tissues are less likely to tear.

Ideally, if the fabric is made entirely of two-strand yarn - that is, if the warp and weft threads (perpendicular to the warp) are double (each thread is twisted from two). Such fabrics are designated as 2x2... Alas, manufacturers often do not disclose such details, but if you suddenly see this designation in the description, you can be sure that the fabric is of high quality.

Read more about 2-ply fabrics.

Three-strand yarn (3-ply)

It also happens. However, products made from 3-ply fabrics are very rare and expensive. Examples include some Ermenegildo Zegna shirts and Alumo Salvatore Triplo fabrics. Yes, such fabrics are very durable and wear-resistant, but in general, 2x2 is quite enough.

Varieties of cotton fabrics

Let's consider the most common varieties.

Denim- thick and very dense fabric from which jeans are sewn. The highest quality is usually considered japanese denim, although decent denim is made both in the US and in Europe. I wrote in more detail about jeans and assessing their quality in.

Stretch denim (stretch) made of cotton with the addition of elastane (2-5%). Elastane allows jeans to become softer and better fit. As a rule, tapered and tight models are made from stretch fabric. It is believed that premium and durable jeans should be 100% cotton.

There is also a budget type of denim (sometimes called "gin"), sometimes with the addition of synthetic fibers such as polyester, up to 50% or more. Inexpensive jeans are sewn from it. It is soft, but has low quality, wear resistance and strength leave much to be desired.

Chambray- thinner, softer and lightweight fabric somewhat similar in appearance to denim. Shirts (those that are often called denim) are sewn from it, as well as women's dresses, skirts, and sundresses.

Twill / twill (twill)- fabric with a diagonal weave of threads. Sometimes there is a twill with a pattern "". Casual trousers and jackets are made of thick and dense twill, and shirts, both casual and strict, for wearing with suits are made of thin twill. A good twill is distinguished by its practicality (it perfectly tolerates washing in a washing machine), strength, wear resistance, durability. Cheap twill, like other cheap fabric, can quickly shed appearance... Read more about twill.

Broken twill (broken twill)- a subspecies of denim, characterized by a peculiar pattern (broken diagonal lines). In particular, some jeans from Wrangler, Naked & Famous and others are made from it.

Gabardine- fabric with a very tight diagonal / twill weave, with good protection against moisture and wind (but at the same time it is partially breathable). Good specimens are distinguished by high wear resistance, strength, and at the same time they are quite light. Gabardine is used mainly for outerwear, occasionally for trousers and for lining pockets in jackets and suits. The original Burberry gabardine, patented by the founder of the company, is woven from yarn obtained from long-staple Egyptian cotton and treated with a special waterproof compound. Today, of course, gabardine is not only used by Burberry, and its quality and properties may vary somewhat.

Cannett - dense, but rather soft and pleasant to the touch fabric with an original texture (see photo below). Casual trousers are sewn from it, but they are rare on sale. Such models were in the summer collection. Moleskin also used for making casual trousers. Moleskin has a soft and pleasant surface, but the fabric itself is dense and heavy.Sometimes unpaired jackets and jackets are sewn from moleskin.

Corduroy (velvet, corduroy) can be made from different fibers; cotton corduroy is quite popular. Corduroy has a well-recognizable relief structure. This fabric is difficult to clean. Generally, corduroy is used to make soft, informal trousers, which some consider to be too old-fashioned. They are dense, quite warm and comfortable; can look quite elegant. Read more about corduroy and its varieties and manufacturers.

Chintz- cheap, lightweight and slightly rough cotton fabric; was very popular in the USSR. Chintz is used to make cheap dresses and shirts, nappies, underwear and bedding.

Satin (Satin / Sateen)- satin weave fabric with a smooth, slightly glossy, silky and pleasant to the touch front surface and a rough, dull / matte back side. It is used for dresses, bedding and also as a fabric for lining. Previously, satin was exclusively a silk fabric, but for a long time there have been options from cotton, and for some time now from synthetic materials. Satin products can be decorated with embroidery (as in the photo below), but they may not be embroidered.

Oxford (Oxford)- dense fabric with a characteristic weave, reminiscent of "" or many miniature rhombuses. It can be soft or it can be rough. As a rule, oxford is used for sewing casual shirts, although royal oxford is also used for strict shirts. It can be hot in summer in these shirts, but a lot depends on the thickness / weight of the particular fabric. Read more about Oxford cotton at.

Poplin- Plain weave fabric, smoother than oxford. A good poplin has a light noble shine, and it perfectly tolerates many washes. Poplin shirts can look both formal and formal, and informal: a lot depends on the color and pattern. Read more about poplin in.

Batiste (batiste, batist, cambric) differs in subtlety, lightness and weak noble luster; it can be translucent. This is an expensive and delicate fabric. It is mainly used for sewing women's dresses, blouses, underwear, handkerchiefs. Also there are male and Women's shirts from cambric. They are only suitable for summer; it is worth adding that the vegetation on the chest through a cambric shirt is usually seen quite well.

Jacquard- fabric with embossed pattern... Stripes, polka dots, figurines can be embossed ... Informal shirts are sewn from jacquard, which can have a very picturesque appearance; as a rule, such shirts can always be found in the assortment. In addition, jacquard is used for upholstery, bedspreads, cushion covers and other home textiles.

Piquet- material with a characteristic weave resembling a honeycomb or "bird's eye". Cotton piqué is used to make polo shirts, dress shirts and dress vests, as well as white bow ties for wearing with a tailcoat. Clothes made of good-quality pique cotton serve for a long time, are comfortable, breathe well, have excellent breathability and are hygroscopic. Bad cotton piqué can be short-lived and not very pleasant.

Read more about cotton pick in.

Flannel, flannelette- soft, slightly fuzzy ("fluffy") fabric (not necessarily cotton - however, and jacquard, for example, can be made from other fibers). Shirts, pajamas, and underwear are sewn from cotton flannel. Flannel is pleasant to the touch, comfortable, looks informal. Flannel shirts are combined with jeans, cotton trousers, informal jackets (tweed, knitted), cardigans, pullovers / jumpers. Read more about flannel.

Non-iron fabrics (Iron free, Wrinkle free, Easy care)

On some shirts, you can see the inscription Non-Iron. This means that the fabric has been specially treated to achieve less crease. Typically, processing is done with chemicals; in particular formaldehyde. This means that non-iron shirts are not very beneficial for health (although no one has conducted special studies).

Non-iron shirts really wrinkle less than those that have not been properly treated. But you still need to iron them. In addition, they are often quite cheap looking and can wear out quite quickly (depending on the manufacturer). An exception is non-iron shirts that have undergone a completely natural treatment - for example, from the company or. But they are much more expensive than mass-market non-iron shirts.

Read more about non-iron fabrics in.

Mercerized Cotton

Cotton that has gone through (a type of yarn processing) is called mercerized cotton. Such cotton is distinguished by a noble shine, smoothness and increased sensitivity to dyes. It is also durable and wear-resistant, does not fade or fade (however, it should be noted that the quality of mercerized cotton varies, so exceptions are possible). Naturally, mercerized cotton clothes are more expensive (all other things being equal). Double mercerization used the best manufacturers, preferable to "single".

Yarn numbers

Some cottons and many fabrics may have yarn numbers stamped (30 to 300). The higher the number, the thinner thread(and, as a rule, the fabric itself), the more pleasant and silky the fabric and the higher the price. However, a high number does not at all mean high wear resistance: a lot depends on both the raw materials and the weaving machines used. Inexpensive fabrics with high yarn counts should be avoided. A good choice for every day can be fabrics made from yarns with numbers from 80 to 140. 150 to 200 is more likely for shirts that you do not plan to wear too often, although best fabrics from such yarn are distinguished by good wear resistance. Above 200 - in my opinion, it is not worth buying, because the price is very high, there are no practical advantages over the same number 200, but the wear resistance may be lower.
Supima cotton.

All of the above varieties (except for some subspecies of Egyptian cotton) are extra-long grain cotton. Read more about it.

Cotton with the addition of synthetics

Synthetic materials are often added to cotton fabrics - mainly, polyester... Yes, cotton clothes with added polyester are cheaper, but they look worse (noticeably worse if the polyester is more than 20-25%). Often, these clothes lose their appearance faster. In addition, synthetics prevent your skin from breathing and can also cause an allergic reaction. Therefore, I do not recommend buying, say, a shirt (shirt, blouse), more than 35% of which is polyester. Preference should be given to products made from 100% cotton.

Adding elastane allows clothing to stretch better (within reason) and fit better. In this case, elastane is added to a very small quantities- usually 2-5%.

Cotton fabric: application, properties, photo. Cotton and types of cotton fabrics - we will tell you everything in one article about this material on our website. Cotton cotton fabric is made from cotton, or rather, from the fruits of this plant. The quality of the material is determined by the length of the fibers. The longer they are, the stronger, better quality and more durable the products from them will be. Cotton is one of the most inexpensive materials used in the textile industry. Quality and affordability have made it ubiquitous.

Origin and modern production

As a material, cotton is one of the most ancient, used by people to make clothes - working with it was mastered at the dawn of civilization. Nevertheless, there was no industrial production for a long time, and for the first time it was the first time to massively grow cotton in India. He reached Europe much later - during the time of Alexander the Great. Gradually, European masters mastered cotton fabrics and set up their production.

In Russia, some types of cotton fabrics of their own production appeared only in the 15th century, their production was limited, and the cotton material remained very expensive.

Features of cotton fabrics and the scope of their use

Cotton products have many advantages over other types of textiles. The most important properties of cotton or cotton cotton fabric are as follows:

• It absorbs water well, while increasing in volume, with an increase in strength.
• Suitable for use simultaneously with synthetic yarns, which improves the performance properties of the starting material. now more popular than 100 cotton fabric, you can read about them at the link.
• High heat retention capacity due to the hollow fiber structure (cotton density is very low).
• Does not deteriorate under the influence of many organic substances that are chemically aggressive.
• Affordability and relative simplicity of production processes.

Any description of cotton or cotton cotton fabric indicates that the material does not undergo electrification; there are also several varieties of such fabric - for example, there are both pile and smooth options.

The introduction of artificial additives that increase the operational properties - polyester, lycra and some others - is widespread. What is cotton made? Currently, the use of cotton is very diverse - it is the manufacture of cotton yarn, knitwear, cotton wool. The fluff is recycled, resulting in artificial threads, varnishes and films.

Perhaps you will be interested in the properties of cotton material in application.

Watch the story about cotton in clothes:

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cotton

Most of the advantages of the material have already been indicated above, and they can be combined in two points - this high level quality and performance, reasonable price. Despite this, there is also a negative characteristic of cotton fabric: a gradual decrease in strength under sunlight (as well as when heated to 150 degrees), the need for mandatory processing to prevent creasing, the threat of destruction by microorganisms.

The disadvantages affect to a lesser extent the types of cotton fabrics made using synthetic fibers. The names of cotton fabrics that have become widespread today are: denim stretch, chambray, several types of twill, corduroy, cambric and many others.

Any cotton product needs proper care- you can learn more about this in the corresponding article ""!

Watching the video:

The textile market provides a large selection of fabrics from fibers of various origins, but natural samples have always been and will be out of competition. Cotton fabric is one of the available and widespread fabrics of natural origin. Its area of ​​application is sewing clothes, bed linen and other home textiles, furniture upholstery. Various methods of processing cotton threads and their weaving have made it possible to create a large assortment of cotton fabrics.

Characteristics, manufacturing

Cotton fabric is the widest range of fabrics based on plant fiber. Cotton material entered Russia in the 15th century, and already during the Soviet era, up to 75% of textile production was based on cotton.

Fun fact: Where did the name "cotton" come from? The fact is that initially, in the technical literature, cotton was called "cotton paper". Perhaps this is due to the fact that when burning cotton fibers emit a papery smell.

The raw material for the material is a plant called cotton. Fibers are extracted from its fruits - hollow plant cells different lengths(it ranges from 1 to 55 mm). Previously, this was done manually, but the laboriousness of the process prompted people to create special combines. Most cotton is now farmed by machines, with the exception of the most expensive varieties.

When the cotton is picked, it is weighed, cleaned, sorted by length, then the fibers are woven into continuous threads, from which the fabric is subsequently created.

Depending on the millimeter size of the raw cotton, the yarn is divided into short (20-27 mm), medium (28-34 mm) and long-fiber (35 mm and longer). It is impossible to make yarn from fibers shorter than 20 mm. The longer the initial raw material, the smoother and more durable the finished fabric (cambric,) will be. From short fibers, a loose, fleecy, non-uniform fabric (for example, flannel) is obtained. The bulk of cotton fabrics are made from fibers middle length(chintz, corduroy).

Cotton fibers come in milky white, pinkish and yellow-greenish colors, which is why natural raw fabrics have such delicate shades. Cotton lends itself well to dyeing, even at home.

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At present, polyester, acrylic, acetate, viscose, and flax threads are added to cotton to impart new properties and improve the existing ones. Ham cotton is also often incorporated into the composition of materials, for example, wild silk, wool, etc. One of the advantages of mixing threads is cost reduction.

Types of cotton fabric are determined by the method of alternating warp and weft threads:

1. Plain weave (or "thread through thread"). In this way, a material with a flat and smooth surface is produced; its main property and advantage over other types is high strength. Coarse calico, cambric, chintz, taffeta and others are made in linen weave.
2. Twill weave (asymmetrical thread shift). In this way, fabrics are woven with small protrusions, dense, rough and heavy. Examples of cotton twill weave fabrics: denim, bumazey, tartan,.
3. Satin weave (weft threads on front side). Such materials are distinguished by a shiny surface and smoothness. An example is satin, eraser.

Cotton fabrics are also classified according to the method of finishing:

• harsh - fabric from under the machine, without dyeing, bleaching and finishing;
• bleached - harsh cloth after exposure to bleaches;
• plain-colored - monochromatic;
• printed - with a pattern;
• multicolored - in a cage or strip;
• - yarn-based fabric different color(in a small speck, less often - a gradient, with a gradual transition from one color to another).

Separately, it is necessary to highlight the bio-cotton fabric, or. This species is environmentally friendly. Both the cultivation and assembly of fiber and the production of matter take place without the use of chemicals. Organic cotton is cultivated in ecologically clean areas, collected by hand. These fabrics are natural in color, they are not dyed or bleached.

Advice! Ideal organic cotton for baby clothes, as well as for people with sensitive skin prone to irritation.

Features, application

The use of cotton fabrics in the field of sewing clothes has no boundaries. These are casual and party wear, suits, skirts, trousers, homewear, lining, etc. Cotton is indispensable for sewing home textiles.

How Plain Weave Samples Are Used:

1. - lightweight fabric for sewing shirts, bed linen, tablecloths, summer dresses.
2. - dense matter, the addition of artificial fibers is allowed. Suitable for making bed linen, curtains. From coarse calico, in addition to bedding, a durable lining is obtained.
3. Batiste created from twisted yarn, this is a thin translucent canvas. Blouses, dresses, linen are sewn from it.
4. Veil- translucent thin matter. Dresses, blouses, scarves, veils are sewn from a veil, light veil curtains from it are popular, and hats are decorated with a veil.
5. Poplin- fabric with a small transverse rib, obtained by weaving a thinner warp and a coarser weft. Suitable for sewing bed linen, including pillow covers (bedclothes), shirts, dresses.
6. - dense, glossy and rather rigid material. Draped well. Scope - bulky parts of clothing and home textiles.

From fabrics of twill weave, good lining and drapery are obtained, as well as dense clothing:

1. Denim is a material for sewing work or casual denim clothing.
2. Bumazeya - warm and soft tissue with a fleece on the wrong side. Shirts, dresses, warm underwear, pleasant to the body, are obtained from the material.
3. Flannel is a sample of softness, it can be with one-sided and double-sided fleece. Everyday clothes for children and adults are sewn from it. Flannel shirts are especially popular.
4. Tartan - the famous fabric for Scottish kilts in a large cage. Skirts, dresses and suits are sewn from it.

Satin is a fabric of a new type of satin weave - it is distinguished by its silkiness and shine. Outwardly, matter is similar to silk. Shirts and robes are sewn from satin. Suitable for sewing light shoes. Sportswear and children's clothing is made from the eraser. Such dense samples of cotton fabrics as diptin and cretonne are suitable for demi-season outerwear and upholstery.

Jeans or denim?

The first jeans were made from French weaved canvas, which was woven in the city of Nîmes, i.e. from de'Nim fabric - hence the name. A little later, the matter was transformed. She received her unique colorfastness in indigo, and the production of raw materials moved to American plantations. Another unique feature of jeans is that it is not the canvas that is dyed, but the warp threads. At the same time, the weft remains colorless - it forms a milky white back and leaves the smallest specks on the front side.

A ? This is a dense fabric of twill weaving, obtained from cotton raw materials of the highest standard. In this he is identical to jeans. However, denim is not necessarily woven from dyed fibers or blue.

Denim and denim are merging concepts today, as consumers love thick fabric and want to see it in different color solutions, also with a printed pattern.

Advantages and disadvantages

The properties of the cotton fabric depend on the fiber itself, on the method of weaving and finishing. Several general positive characteristics of natural cotton materials stand out:

1. They are pleasant to the touch, do not cause irritation.
2. Hypoallergenic.
3. They have a healing effect and are used in medicine.
4. The main property that distinguishes cotton fabrics is hygroscopicity. Cotton fiber absorbs a large amount of moisture, while increasing up to 40%. The moisture-wicking property means that such clothes will be comfortable in the summer heat.
5. Wet cotton has increased durability.
6. Cotton is breathable. The skin in such clothes breathes.
7. High strength allows cotton fabrics to withstand heavy loads.
8. Keep you warm and warm.
9. Dry quickly.
10. Convenient for sewing: non-slip, easy to cut, cuts almost do not crumble.
11. Elasticity - does not impede movement.
12. At high temperatures, cotton remembers the shape in which it is located. This allows you to create the necessary folds when modeling products, as well as smooth fabrics.
13. The fabrics are affordable.

What are the disadvantages of natural cotton:

1. Unlike synthetics, cotton has a slightly shorter lifespan.
2. Cotton fabric wrinkles. The addition of synthetic fibers solves the problem.
3. Poorly stretches.
4. Matter is susceptible to microorganisms which, under suitable conditions (dampness), cause it to rot.
5. Not resistant to aggressive cleaning agents based on alkalis and inorganic acids.
6. At high temperatures.
7. Organic cotton is expensive.

Care rules

To smooth out the imperfections of matter, just follow the rules for caring for it:

1. Washing at a temperature not exceeding 60 degrees, otherwise the product will shrink.
2. Do not use bleach on colored items.
3. To make the product easier to iron, dry it on a hanger or flattened.
4. Cotton is ironed on either side with steam at an iron temperature of up to 200 degrees. If heated more, the cotton will ignite.

Advice! Wash synthetics and cotton separately so that the surface of the fabric does not roll.

How to distinguish real cotton from fake:

• when trying to tear the fabric, strong resistance is felt;
• cotton is not electrified;
• crumples when compressed;
• if the fiber is ignited, a yellow flame, smoke and a characteristic papery smell appear.

If you need to sew a comfortable, breathable and hypoallergenic product, cotton fabric will come to the rescue. This fabric is truly versatile: depending on the structure of cotton, they create a variety of products, from handkerchiefs to demi-season coats. There are many reasons for purchasing cotton products, but its main advantages are naturalness and affordability.

Evgeny Sedov

When hands grow from the right place, life is more fun :)

Content

A fabric made from plant fibers is called cotton or cotton fabric. It differs in that the textile fabric is pleasant for the body, does not irritate the skin, and does not cause allergies. As a result of progress and many years of experience in the creation of this material, many ways of processing it have been created, so a large number of different types of cotton-based fabrics have appeared.

What is cotton fabric

Cotton has become a discovery for humanity. From the fibers of this plant, they began to make clothes for a long time. Cotton is a hollow plant cell with a maximum length of 60 mm. It develops from the seed of cotton, that is, it is the fruit of the plant. Cotton yarn, depending on the length and quality of the fibers, according to GOST is divided into 3 types:

• short-fiber;
• medium fiber;
• fine fiber.

The raw material is something like cotton wool. At first, cotton was picked by hand, with the development of technology, special combines were created, which significantly increased the speed of work. The main things that are made on the basis of cotton:

• materials;
• cotton wool;
• cottonseed oil;
• gossypol (used in medicine);
• powder.

Production of cotton fabrics

Cotton fibers are hidden in a box, which opens when ripe, the contents become visible. There may be seeds on the fibers, therefore, after harvesting, everything is carefully sorted out at the factory, unnecessary elements are eliminated. The main stages of working with cotton:

1. Collecting cotton fibers.
2. Separation of seeds.
3. Sorting into three groups: for fabric (length - 20 mm), lint or down (from 5 to 20 mm) and delint or underpads (less than 5 mm).
4. The fibers are pressed into yarns.
5. The yarn can be dyed or remain so until the fabric is made.
6. Cotton fabric is made from these threads.

Types of cotton fabrics

There are several ways in which cotton fabric is classified. One is based on the composition of the fibers - the components from which the yarn for cotton products is made. Basically, the thread is made of cotton, but other components can be added: natural (organic), artificial or synthetic. Another option for creating types of fabrics is based on the method of weaving threads. Another classification is according to the method of processing fibers and fabrics.

Composition

Other components may be added to the yarn during the manufacturing phase. Although pure, organic cotton is considered the best, the following types of fibers are often found in the composition now:

• flax is a natural fiber of plant origin;
• viscose - artificial, obtained as a result of cellulose processing;
• polyester - synthetic polyester fibers;
• acrylic - synthetics obtained from natural gas;
• acetate - fibers made on the basis of cellulose and chemical reagents.

Interlacing of threads

There are several ways to weave the threads. The first option is plain weave: the threads are evenly laid on top of each other, that is, one goes through the other. At the same time, the cotton fabric turns out to be even, smooth and durable. The main types of fabric of this weave:

1. Batiste is a thin, translucent cotton fabric made from twisted yarn. Goes to the production of lingerie, blouses, dresses, handkerchiefs.
2. Calico - dense cotton, artificial fibers can be added. Goes to tailoring bed linen, dresses and linings.
3. Veil is a very thin cotton that shines through; decorative hats, scarves, curtains, veils, dresses, blouses are made of it.
4. Awning is a thin, light, even airy fabric, from which summer clothes, bed linen, curtains are made.
5. Calico is a tough fabric, the threads are not bleached. On the basis of this cotton material, others are produced: muslin, chintz, oilcloth, leatherette. Can be used for furniture upholstery.
6. Muslin is light and thin; dresses and curtains are sewn from it.
7. Poplin is a dense, double-sided material with a fine rib. Shirts, dresses, tablecloths, bed linen are sewn from it.
8. Sarpinka is a lightweight material, also called a canvas. At the same time, the drawing is in the form of a strip or a cell, similar to chintz. They make dresses, blouses, skirts from sarpinki.
9. Chintz - lightweight, made when dressing calico. Shirts, dresses, bed linen, clothes for children are sewn.
10. Taffeta is a dense material with a glossy sheen. It is tough, so you can make lush draperies, create voluminous silhouettes: Wedding Dresses, blouses, skirts.

There is also a twill weave of threads: an asymmetric connection of threads, when there is an alternation of one through two or one through three. This cotton material is very heavy and dense, there may be protrusions that create a certain texture. Often this fabric is used to make linings for clothes or different kinds drapery. Types of materials with such an interlacing of threads:

1. Bumazeya is a warm, thick and very soft cotton fabric, there is a fleece on the seamy side. Shirts, dresses, thermal underwear are made from it.
2. Denim is a very dense and tough material from which jeans were first sewn. From it are made: curtains, skirts, jackets, overalls.
3. Flannel is a soft, but dense fabric with a fleece, pile (one-sided or two-sided). Previously, soldier's footcloths were sewn from it, now - shirts, clothes for newborns.
4. Plaid is a cotton material with a large check pattern. They sew from it: kilts, suits, trousers, skirts, dresses, school uniforms.

Satin is a material that is made using a special type of thread connection called "satin weave": the weft threads are directed horizontally to each other and vertically to the warp threads. The fabric is smooth, silky, dense, and has a shine. Outwardly, it looks like silk. They make from it: shirts, dresses, robes, linings, shoes. Diptin or Cretonne have the same weave, but more dense fabrics from which furniture upholstery and demi-season outerwear are sewn.

To make velvet, a pile weave is used, when an additional third thread is introduced into the fabric to be produced. The canvas has a short pile on the front side, it is soft and pleasant if you wipe it with your hand. They make elegant dresses, jackets, jackets, curtains and various home textiles from it. For the production of a bike (or footer), the technique of double-faced weaving is used, when three systems of threads are used. The canvas is fluffy, dense and soft. Warm underwear, women's, children's and home clothes are sewn from it.

To make an interlock, a special type of weave is used - criss-crossing. This is a dense jersey, pleasant to the touch, its surface is smooth, the difference between the wrong side and face no. They make tracksuits, clothes for men from the material. Another type of cotton jersey is the kulirka (smooth fabric, on the front side there are pigtails, and on the inside out there are bricks). Such cotton fabric stretches in width and almost does not change in length, does not wrinkle. This is the thinnest cotton jersey, the clothes are light and airy: dresses, skirts, blouses.

Finishing

Cotton fabrics differ not only in the way the threads are woven and in composition, but also in the type of finish, which consists of certain chemical and physical actions in relation to the cotton material. After these manipulations, the material has an improved appearance, becomes soft and durable. Cotton finishing is of the following types:

1. Severe is a cotton fabric without processing, simply taken from the loom.
2. Bleached - with the help of bleaches, the material is clarified.
3. Plain dyed - fabric dyed in one color.
4. Printed - this material is monochromatic, but a pattern has been printed on it.
5. Multicolored - this material is made by interweaving multi-colored threads.
6. Melange - a web of fibers different colors as if in a speck.

Properties of cotton fabric

The main advantages of cotton fabrics are their hypoallergenicity, tactile sensations, and environmental friendliness. In addition, they have other advantages:

1. Air permeability - due to the way the threads are woven and the structure of the fibers themselves, air can freely penetrate through clothes, heat exchange is well carried out.
2. Hygroscopicity is the ability of matter to absorb moisture, which indicates comfortable sensations in the heat, when a person sweats, and the greenhouse effect is not created. Wet cotton can grow by another 40%, while becoming more elastic, durable than dry.
3. Lightness, softness - a person feels comfortable in these clothes, it adheres to the body, does not hinder movement.
4. Does not cause itching, any manifestations of allergies.
5. Durability - it can withstand a greater load than wool, it can only be compared with silk.
6. Keeping warm - keeps you warm, although light and thin material. This is due to the fact that the cotton fiber is hollow inside, so it traps air.
7. Thermoplasticity - when heated, cotton, as it were, remembers its shape, and subsequently holds it.

There are also disadvantages to cotton fabrics. These disadvantages include the following points:

1. Rotting, if there is a favorable environment for various microorganisms.
2. Sensitivity to light and heat - after prolonged exposure to sunlight or high temperatures the density is halved.
3. Sensitivity to alkalis and acids (inorganic) - when washing, you cannot use aggressive agents, but you can use mercerization for processing (quick processing of the fabric with a solution of concentrated soda, after which it is washed in hot or cold water), then the material will not suffer.
4. It crumples, so synthetic fibers are often added to it or improved by impregnation and processing.
5. Poorly stretched, deformed.

What is sewn from cotton

Cotton fabrics for use are divided into household and technical. The first type makes up 80% of all materials, they are intended for sewing clothes. Among this type of fabric there are decorative ones, which are used for the manufacture of curtains, curtains, furniture upholstery, handkerchiefs, towels. These are not all the areas of application of such material, summer bike blankets, tablecloths, bedspreads, gauze, etc. are made of it. Materials intended for technical purposes are divided into two categories: packaging and container.

The price

In large cities, such as Moscow or St. Petersburg, you can find cotton fabric in many specialized retail stores. There you can go to the sale, where the purchase will be made at a reduced cost. In the online store, all kinds of promotions and discounts are very common, so you can buy goods there inexpensively. Many sites offer free shipping by mail or courier. Approximate price for cotton fabric in Moscow:

How to distinguish cotton from other natural fabrics

There are several types of natural fabrics. The main point of how to distinguish cotton fabric is the combustion test:

1. The smell of burnt paper appears, while the flame has yellow... Smoldering produces white smoke.
2. Flax burns similarly, but smolders much worse.
3. Wool burns more slowly, while crackling and forming into a black ball. The smell of wool is similar to burnt hair.
4. Silk burns like wool, but at the same time it has a specific, pronounced smell.

There are also other ways to recognize cotton, they are based on tactile sensations:

Discuss

Cotton fabric: types and composition

Cotton is one of the best organic materials of all time human history used in different industries. The main consumer of fiber is textile industry, which cannot be imagined without cotton. Fabrics made from this material have excellent characteristics.

Cotton remains in demand over time, as it was many centuries ago.

Description

Cotton is a plant fiber that envelops the seeds of a cotton plant. It is one of the most important and widespread crops around the world. It occupies a leading position as the basis for the production of fabrics. There are dozens of species of this plant.

According to its external characteristics, cotton grows like a shrub. The similarity is due to the presence of branches and leaves. A good example is the following photo of a cotton plant.

In fact, cotton, depending on the species, is a woody or herbaceous plant. It takes root only in hot countries, it needs a warm and humid climate. Its height ranges from one meter to one and a half meters. their color also differs in varietal characteristics, can be pollinated independently. The fruit is a boll of cotton in which the seeds and fibers ripen.

History

In order to find out how cotton grows, it is useful to read a little historical background about it.

The cultivation of cotton has a long history. This is confirmed by excavations of ancient settlements. India is considered to be the country that started the development of cotton. It was there that the most ancient samples of material and tools for its processing were found. Further, cotton fiber became widespread in Greece and Arab countries... Excavations in China, Persia, Mexico, Peru also speak of the cultivation of cotton for several millennia BC.

From the countries that cultivate the culture, cotton products have spread to Asia and America. Self-cultivation of cotton by these countries began much later.

Before the beginning of cultivation in Europe, there were many legends about how cotton grows. Several variants of names in different cultures have survived to this day, as well as images according to people's ideas.

Growing cotton

The ripening period of cotton fiber varies depending on the variety: from 100 to 200 days.

Growing cotton fiber requires a well-prepared, porous soil. The presence in it nutrients is of great importance for the full growth of the plant. Therefore, before sowing, the land is enriched with the help of various fertilizers.

Warm climates also play a huge role. Seeds can germinate at temperatures no lower than 15 degrees. For development and further flowering, the temperature must reach 30 degrees. Cotton needs open access to sunlight. In the shade, the plant may die.

Cotton plants consume a lot of water. The supply of moisture to the plant should be abundant and constant. At the same time, cotton is able to tolerate drought due to its well-developed root system. But under such conditions, the amount of the crop is reduced.

Ripening of cotton on the plant is uneven, therefore, the harvest takes place in several stages. Often leaves are removed from it before harvesting, which can interfere with the harvesting process.

After the boll with fiber ripens, it opens. The cotton picking begins, which passes mechanically or manually. The ripe fiber bolls are plucked from the plant together with the seeds. Further, the raw material is cleaned from seeds, dust and debris, and is transported to its destination.

Properties

Cotton fiber has a number of positive properties:

• perfectly absorbs moisture;
• does not cause allergies;
• warms, keeps warm;
• has high air permeability;
• does not need complex care;
• has a low cost;
• convenient for sewing various clothes.

Cotton also has several negative properties:

• without adding it is crumpled, stretched and thinned;
• quickly loses color when exposed to sunlight;
• loses its properties upon prolonged contact with water.

Application

Cotton fiber is used in various spheres of human life.

Primarily, cotton is used in the textile industry. Fabrics of various characteristics and colors are made from it. For example, satin, flannel, chintz and many others. Cotton fiber is used in the manufacture of threads, yarn, cotton wool, paper, and even explosives.

Cotton seeds are also used in industry. Some of them are being prepared for further disembarkation. Oil is squeezed out of the rest of the seeds, which is used for food. Low quality oil is used for technical needs. The raw materials remaining after pressing the oil are rich in protein, therefore, animal feed is made from it.

Of the dozens of varieties of cotton, several are used for the manufacturing industry.

Information about how cotton grows and its industrial applications are interesting and important. This plant has played an important role in the history of mankind for many centuries.