COTTON
Cotton is a natural fibre that is widely recognized for its versatility & common use in the fashion industry. It is derived from the seed hairs of the cotton plant, making it a plant-based or natural fibre.
MAIN BENEFITS OF COTTON
〰️ COMFORT: Cotton is prized for its softness & natural comfort. Its fibres are gentle against the skin, making it an ideal choice for base layer items, such as t-shirts & underwear.
〰️ BREATHABILITY: Cotton is highly breathable, allowing air to circulate around the body, it has the ability to absorb moisture, keeping the wearer dry & comfortable by wicking away sweat.
〰️ DURABILITY: Cotton is a durable fibre that can withstand regular wear & washing without losing its shape or strength. It is also highly versatile, as it can be easily blended with other fibres or processed, to create a wide range of fabric types.
WHERE IS COTTON SOURCED?
Cotton is sourced from various countries and regions around the world.
Some of the major cotton-producing countries include India, China, USA, Pakistan, & South America.
The quality and characteristics of cotton can vary depending on the region and the specific variety of the cotton plant.
HOW IS COTTON MATERIAL MADE?
The processing of cotton involves several stages.
After harvesting, the cotton fibres are separated from the seeds through a process called ginning. Once separated, the fibres undergo cleaning to remove impurities such as dirt, leaves & other plant matter. The cleaned cotton is then carded or combed to align the fibres & remove any remaining impurities. It is subsequently spun into yarn or thread, which can be further processed & woven or knitted into various fabrics.
Cotton can be dyed using both natural & synthetic dyes. The dyeing process involves immersing the cotton fabric in a dye bath, allowing the colour to penetrate the fibres. Various dyeing techniques can be employed to achieve different effects and colours.
HOW DO I CARE FOR GARMENTS MADE FROM COTTON?
When caring for garments made from cotton, it is essential to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. However, here are some common care guidelines:
〰️ WASHING: Cotton garments can typically be machine-washed using a mild detergent. It is advisable to separate colors and wash similar garments together to prevent color bleeding. Pay attention to the care label instructions regarding water temperature & wash cycles; generally a 30/40 degree wash cycle is best.
〰️ DRYING: Cotton garments can be tumble-dried on a low or medium heat setting. However, to minimize shrinkage and maintain the fabric's quality, it is often recommended to air dry them by laying them flat or hanging them in a well-ventilated area.
〰️ PRESSING: Cotton fabric is generally known for its wrinkle-prone nature. To remove wrinkles, use a medium to high heat setting & iron the garment while it is still slightly damp or use a steam iron.
WHAT CAN I MAKE FROM COTTON?
〰️ Everyday Basics
〰️ Intimates
〰️ Denim
〰️ Footwear Lining
〰️ Kidswear