Processing Textiles

From raw material to finished textile product

From Fibre to Fabric

Textiles are materials made from fibres. Natural fibres come from plants (cotton, flax) or animals (wool, silk). Synthetic fibres (polyester, nylon) are made from chemicals in factories. The fibres are spun into yarn then woven or knitted into fabric.

Example

Textile Processing Steps

1. Harvesting: Pick cotton bolls or shear sheep 2. Cleaning: Remove dirt, seeds, oils 3. Spinning: Twist fibres into strong yarn/thread 4. Weaving or Knitting: Make fabric from yarn 5. Dyeing: Add colour 6. Finishing: Iron, treat for water resistance, etc. 7. Cutting & sewing: Make into clothing

Note

Remember

Read clothing labels: they show fibre content and care instructions. SA has a textile industry in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. Fast fashion creates waste — recycling and mending clothes helps the environment.

Key Vocabulary

TextileAny material made from fibres (fabric, cloth)

Natural fibreFibre from plants or animals (cotton, wool)

Synthetic fibreFibre made from chemicals in a factory (polyester)

DyeingAdding colour to fabric or yarn

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