Plant fibers such as cotton and linen are essential materials for fabrics. Cotton, with its softness, breathability, and good moisture absorption, is the most common material for clothing and home textiles. Linen, on the other hand, is tough and durable, suitable for summer clothing and decorative items. Animal fibers such as wool, cashmere, rabbit hair, and silk are known for their softness, warmth, and natural sheen, and are often used in high-end clothing, sweaters, shawls, and silk products. Natural fibers offer comfort and breathability, making them a crucial base material for fabrics.
Besides natural fibers, synthetic fibers are also important raw materials for fabrics. Synthetic fibers are made from artificially synthesized polymers, commonly including polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex. Polyester is durable and wrinkle-resistant, suitable for outerwear, trousers, and industrial fabrics; nylon is elastic and strong, often used in sportswear and outdoor gear; spandex, due to its high stretchability, is usually blended with other fibers for elastic clothing such as underwear and sportswear. The emergence of synthetic fibers has not only reduced costs but also enriched the performance options for fabrics.
Regenerated fibers, including viscose, Tencel, and recycled polyester, are made from recycled or processed natural cellulose, combining the comfort of natural fibers with the durability of chemical fibers. Tencel has a smooth feel and good breathability, making it suitable for high-end clothing and home textiles; recycled polyester is processed from waste plastic bottles, reducing resource waste.