Velvet the Fabric of Nobility
A product of rayon and nylon, velvet is woven in such a way as to create tiny, densely-packed fibers that stand up from the back of the cloth. Having a finish that drapes well, making it a better choice for formal wear, cotton velvet is a sturdier choice for day wear. Type of woven tufted fabric in which the cut threads are very evenly distributed, with a short dense pile giving it a distinctly smooth feel.
Historical background on Velvet
Traditionally, associated with nobility, dating back to the medieval era velvet was introduced to European nobility by Crusaders returning from the Middle East. This extravagant material became a symbol of wealth and power in Europe and was so favored by kings and queens. Although it is used in everyday clothing today it is still known for its beauty and elegance.
The Season For Velvet
It’s that time of year when velvet starts making its triumphant comeback with holiday dresses for girls and ladies of all ages, the perfect way to make a grand entrance. Considered the fabric of the holidays anything from coats to stockings are coated with it to give that warm cozy feel to holiday festivities. Although it is heavily used during the holiday season it is also great for year round events such as weddings, formal, get together’s and birthday parties.
Properties
A heavy durable fabric with a strong sheen. Its characteristics depend on the type of material that has been used to manufacture it. Silk has a soft drape and shimmering surface, while synthetic velvet’s have a strong sheen but do not tend to drape as well.
Types
Embossed: A metal roller is used to heat stamp the fabric, producing a pattern
Hammered: This type is extremely lustrous, appears dappled, and somewhat crushed
Lyons: A densely woven, stiff, heavier weight pile velvet used for hats, coat collars and garments.
Plain: Commonly made of cotton, this type of velvet has a firm hand and can be used for many purposes
Care
Knit and fine velvet with plain weave, must be dry cleaned. Others, such as crushed velvet, can be machine washed. When in doubt, take your special clothing, such as a velvet dress or velvet jacket, to a professional dry cleaner. Now that you have read about velvet its properties and uses learn more about cotton.
Organza the Occasion Fabric
The Occasion fabric Organza is perfect for luxurious party dresses. Often it is used to make tablecloths, light curtains, and formal dresses. Traditionally this fabric was made of silk and was very expensive. Today, many modern organza’s are woven with synthetic filament fibers such as polyester or nylon. This new synthetic fabric is more common and much less expensive. This fabric is incredibly soft and flowing, unlike other sheer fabrics like tulle, it has less stiffness. Multiple organza layers in a garment will permit a gentle sway.
Organza Types
- Crystal
Crystal and Mirror Organza can be embellished into many different patterns and prints.
Caring for Organza
Easy to care for fabric that most often can simply be thrown in the washing machine and hung to dry. Use the washing machine’s cool or warm setting and take care not to include anything else that could catch onto the fabric. When ironing make sure to keep the iron at a low heat to avoid burning. Some Organza fabric will need dry cleaning.
Uses
Used as an underlying to protect the delicate fabrics that are used in bridal dresses as well as commonly used for constructing little girl’s dresses. The fabric can also be used for party decor, curtains, tablecloths, bags as well as many other applications.
Properties
The silk fiber is chiefly composed of 80% of fibrin, which is protein in nature and 20% of servicing, which is otherwise called as silk gum. Organza is produced in India and the United States as well as other countries. Often it is made from a mixture of nylon and polyester. Organza can be made very soft or a bit firmer. Organza is one of the materials that can be dyed often very quickly. This characteristic allows it to be used most often in prom and evening dresses to create an airy look.
Quality
The quality depends on the type of silk and how the silk fibers are woven together. The detail and fringe quality of the fabric make it more expensive than most fabrics. Although the highest quality is from France or Italy, fabric produced in India and the United States often uses a mixture of nylon and polyester to create usable organza that is both cost effective and smooth to the touch.
Organza Fabric in clothing
When it comes to attire, organza fabric is a staple of formal dresses as a way to create full skirts and a graceful fall. One of its main uses is in the construction of wedding dresses which help to make the big day all that more special. Between wedding attire and evening fashions, organza fabric has a secure future in the world of fashion. Now that you have read about Organza, to learn about cotton read All about Cotton-Care and use of a versatile fabric.
Fall Fabric Show
Treasure Box Kids attended a Fall Fabric Show in the heart of Miami last month to source some of the best and highest quality fabrics around.
Many great vendors were on hand at the show displaying a vast amount of wonderful fabrics. I was on hand to look for soft velvets and other fabrics for the Treasure Box Kids new line of kids clothing Made in the USA Inspiration for the Fall 2015 holiday styles start with Treasure Box Kids sourcing materials.
Fall Fabric Show
We were also looking for new sequined and embroidered Organza fabrics for our Birthday Dresses as well as soft crepe linings for our girl’s dresses. High-quality Organza, Crepes, and Satins are very important when we design a girls dress for our Made in the USA line. We want the softest and most durable fabrics for our girl’s line of dresses. I was also impressed with the great assortment of quality cottons at the fall fabric show which gave us great inspiration for summer dresses for 2015 as well as for the Fall of 2015. The vendors gave us quite an education and an assortment of information on the manufacturing process of some of their fabrics. We were pleased to choose vendors that offer a vast assortment of quality fabrics.
Fall Fabric Show
When sourcing Treasure Box Kids looks to make sure that the fabrics we use are sourced ethically and that the materials used are compliant with the current Apparel and Household Textiles Compliance Requirements. That way you know that your child is wearing a garment that meets Treasure Box Kids quality as well as the US Governments safety requirements. A quality garment starts with a quality fabric and trims as well as a good design and fit. Quality fabric ensures a great fit and a garment that will stand up to multiple laundries.
Count on Treasure Box Kids to attend next years Fall Fabric Show in Miami and New York to source the newest, highest quality fabrics.
