Correctly analyzing and identifying fabric properties and applying them appropriately to clothing design is fundamental knowledge every designer needs to master. Otherwise, incorrect fabric identification can lead to problems in the design, production, wearing, or washing of the entire garment. Fabric identification includes identifying the raw materials, appearance characteristics, and appearance quality. Observing and identifying fabrics requires not only sight but also hearing, touch, and even smell. For example, visual perception involves observing the fabric's luster, dyeing, surface roughness, and the characteristics of its weave, texture, and fibers. Pure cotton fabric typically has a dull luster, a less refined appearance, and may even contain cotton knots or impurities. Wool and polyester blends have a brighter luster, a shimmering effect, and a slightly stiffer body, lacking softness, which becomes more pronounced with increasing polyester content. They lack a soft, supple feel and are crisp, smooth, and even flat. Tactile perception allows one to feel the fabric's and fibers' softness, smoothness, texture, elasticity, and temperature. Hands can also be used to measure the strength and elongation of the yarns within the fibers.
Different fabrics possess varying properties such as breathability, moisture absorption, and warmth retention. For instance, cotton fabrics offer excellent breathability and moisture absorption, providing comfort and warmth, making them ideal for children's clothing. When selecting fabrics, it's essential to consider their breathability, warmth retention, moisture absorption, and static electricity resistance. Furthermore, factors like the fabric's crispness, weight, softness, and drape should be taken into account to determine the suitable shapes and styles for different designs.