Microfibers
Microfiber.its more than just a buzzword. Its a fiber variation that has fiber, fabric, and apparel producers as well as fashion designers around the world buzzing with enthusiasm. These fibers have characteristics that lend themselves to the production of new, exciting and fashionable fabrics. In other words, microfibers are giving manufactured fibers such as polyester a good name. Advancements in fiber technology has made it possible to produce manufactured fibers that take on the characteristics of natural fibers.
Microfibers are found in nylon, polyester, and acrylic. A number of leading fashion designers and design firms are already using microfiber products in their collections: Liz Claiborne, Evan Picone, Nautica, J.H. Collectibles, Eddie Bauer, Russ Togs, Donna Karan, Norma Kamali, Ralph Lauren, and Rebecca Moses to name just a few. Calvin Klein , who swore off polyester in the early eighties, created a quilted microfiber parka for one of his lines. The interest generated by Klein has led many designers to jump on the bandwagon, leading to a polyester renaissance.
Generally, the accepted definition of a microfiber includes fibers that are one denier and finer. To put that in perspective, the fibers are at least 15 times finer than those used in sheer, silk pantyhose. According to the Polyester Council of America, microdenier polyester is four times finer than wool, three times finer than cotton, and more than twice as fine as silk.
Some of the outstanding characteristics of microfibers include the following:
exceptional strength, although the filaments are super fine
finer than wool, three times finer than cotton, and more than twice as fine as silk.
Some of the outstanding characteristics of microfibers include the following:
- exceptional strength, although the filaments are super fine
- improved breathability
- vivid prints with more clarity and sharper contrast
- comfort of natural fibers
- durability
- ease of care
- appearance retention
- can be made windproof and water resistant
- excellent drape (designers love the excellent drape of microfiber polyester)
- lighter weight
Industry observers expect to see microdenier fabrics in virtually every type of apparel. No longer just a buzzword for the apparel market, microfibers are being featured in the newest fabrics shown in bedding and decorative home fashions. Microdenier fabrics are expected to been seen in every type of apparel and home furnishings imaginable: rainwear, active sportswear, tailored suits, childrens wear, lingerie, hosiery, eveningwear, outerwear, sheeting, upholstery and accessories. Some of the current microfibers include: Micromattique polyester and MicroSupplex nylon form DuPont, Silky Touch nylon from BASF Fibers, Trevira Finesse polyester and Microfineesse polyester from Trevira and MicroSupreme acrylic from Sterling Fibers.
Sources
- Sara J. Kadolph, Anna L. Langford, Textiles/...{et al} (8th ed. Prentice-Hall, Inc. Simon & Schuster/A Viacom Company) Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, 07458,pp. 77, 87, 105-106, 120, 144, 247, 249, 257
- www.dupont.com
- www.fibersource.com
- www.aimagazine.com/archives
About the Author:
The author is the President of Textile Fabric Consultants, Inc.
