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Raw materials such as wool and linen have been used in Irish Fashion for centuries - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2(b) - 2007
Question 2(b)
Raw materials such as wool and linen have been used in Irish Fashion for centuries. Write a profile of one natural fabric you have studied. Refer to: • fibre produ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Raw materials such as wool and linen have been used in Irish Fashion for centuries - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2(b) - 2007
Step 1
fibre production
Answer
One natural fabric that has been extensively studied is cotton. The production of cotton involves several stages:
- Cultivation: Cotton fibers are sourced from the cotton plant, which requires a warm climate and well-drained soil.
- Harvesting: Once the cotton bolls are mature, they are harvested, often using machines. This process separates the fibers from the seeds and husks.
- Ginning: In this stage, the cotton fibers are further cleaned and separated from the seeds using a cotton gin.
- Baling: Clean cotton fibers are then compressed into bales for transportation to textile mills.
Through these processes, raw cotton is transformed into a material ready for weaving and further textile production.
Step 2
fabric properties
Answer
Cotton possesses several notable properties that make it a popular choice for a variety of garments:
- Breathability: Cotton fabric allows air to circulate, making it comfortable to wear in warm conditions.
- Moisture Absorption: Its ability to absorb moisture helps keep the wearer dry by wicking sweat away.
These qualities make cotton particularly suitable for everyday wear, including clothing such as t-shirts, jeans, and bed linens.
Step 3
fibre identification test
Answer
To identify cotton fibers, one can conduct a simple burn test:
- Burn Test: A small piece of fabric is held to a flame. Cotton fibers will burn quickly and produce a smell similar to burning paper. The ash left after burning is usually soft and gray, indicating it is a natural fiber.
This test helps differentiate cotton from synthetic fibers, as the latter tend to melt and form hard beads when burnt.