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FABRICS

Difference between textile and fabric

by Stienie Greyling

extile – Literally it means woven furnishings, to hafting for tools, sacking, weather, to coat furniture and also to
fabric coming from a Latin word sails, tents, fishnets and lines, ropes and assist them in sports.
Ttaxere. numerous other uses.
Fabric – It is a piece of cloth used for Today different types of textiles and The most expensive fabric in the world.
making clothing. fabrics are used widely by humans in their Most fabric products like cloth are
Textile fibres can be broadly classified activities as a way of protecting themselves expensive and it’s not just because of the
into two categories: Natural fibre and from the elements, covering their bodies, brand. Sometimes the textile material
man-made fibres. upholstery, furniture, window shades, contributes to its luxurious price. Those
It is no surprise that evidence of carpeting, curtains, quilts, bedding, products do not only come from ordinary
textiles can be found dating back to the outdoor needs, soft furnishing, to cover fabrics. Some manufacturers are creating
prehistoric age. food or ripe plants from animals and the best fabrics from renowned materials.
Textiles are made from many materials,
with four main sources: animal (wool,
silk), plant (cotton, flax, jute, Bamboo),
mineral (asbestos, glass fibre) and
synthetic (nylon, polyester, acrylic,
rayon). The first three are natural.
In the 20th century, they were
supplemented by artificial fibres made
from petroleum.
Textiles were a mayor component of
both ancient and social relationships. They
were essential for many aspects of life,
from clothing, blankets and household

50 Issue 242 • dw