Different types of fabrics exist to have a unique design, look, and feel and serve their desired purpose most effectively. Textile fabrics can be natural or synthetic, woven or knitted, and come from plants, animals, or human manufacturing. Mixing these techniques creates distinguished fabric appearances and feels, providing consumers with many options when shopping for an item. For instance, notice how certain decorative rugs can either be simplistic or intricate in design and feel different on the feet; different types and weaves of the fabric create more ornate patterns.
Natural Fibers vs. Synthetic Fibers
Textile materials can be divided into two categories of manufacture. Natural fibers are made from plants or animal coats and include most plant and animal-based fibers. Fabrics such as wool, leather, cotton, and silk are considered natural because their creation transpires with little to no human intervention. Synthetic fibers, conversely, are manufactured materials. Polyester, nylon, spandex, and acrylic are all synthetic textile fibers. Artificial fibers are becoming increasingly popular in the textile industry.
