Friday

Soft Furnishing Fabrics – Silk, Pure and Faux

Silk is a natural fibre made from the larvae and cocoon of the Mulberry silkworm which are commercially reared for the production of silk. The beautiful shimmer and sheen on the surface of silk is due to the structure of the thread which causes light to reflected from its surface.


Silk has been used for centuries to make textiles and fabrics. Chinese silk tapestries, screens and clothes are three of the most common uses for silk, although it was only used for the Kings of China for their clothes, furnishings and was also given as treasured gifts.

Today much of the silk produced comes from Thailand when it is cultivated all year round and woven into yarns for textiles. India also produces silk and is by far the greatest consumer of silk.

While pure silk is gorgeous it can also be difficult to work with and to clean. Today faux silk made from polyester is used to make fabrics for soft furnishings, it more durable and can easily be cleaned. Of course, the price difference is also notable.

Image: quadrapop

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