Calico
Calico – Calico is a cotton fabric of ancient origin. It is constructed using a plain weave and hasn’t gone through any of the regular finishing processes. It still contains some of the starch from weaving and has a slightly stiff handle. It is an inexpensive fabric and can be made in many different weights and widths, making it very suitable for experimental textiles work. Calico is often used for prototype garments or toile’s before the final garment is made using the actual fabric. It can also be used as an interlining is structured or tailored garments.
How is cotton made?
Cotton is a natural cellulose fibre from the seed boll of the cotton plant. The majority of cultivated cotton is grown in America, China and India, where the conditions are dry and warm. Once the cotton boll is ready it is picked, the seeds are removed and the soft white fibres are removed in a process called ginning. These are what make the cotton fabric; and when harvested they have to be untangled from each other and aligned as they are very fine and fluffy. This process is called combing or carding. At the spinning mill next, the cotton fibres are spun and twisted into cotton yarn which it then woven or knitted into a multitude of cotton fabrics.
Main Physical Properties of Cotton Fabric
- Naturally Breathable
- Non-Static because it always contains some moisture
- Absorbs up to 65% of its own weight without dripping
- Soft Handle, Good Drape, Dries Slowly
- Good strength, abrasion resistance and durability
- Poor Elasticity, so creases easily.
- Biodegradable and Recyclable
- Easy to wash and dye
- Can be boiled and bleached
- Can be Mercerised to create a higher lustre and strength
- Can be treated with stain-resistant finishes using Teflon of silicone.
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