Development of Silk And Different Uses - Silk is a natural protein fibre, some forms of which can be woven into textiles. The protein fibre of silk is composed mainly of fibroin and produced by certain insect larvae to form cocoons.
Silk fabric is widely regarded as the most luxurious textile on the planet. Its
tumultuous history, rife with wars, secrecy, and centuries of trade, bears
little resemblance to the fabric's current reputation for being the epitome of
high fashion.
The most abundant form of silk, a natural protein fiber, is cultivated from the cocoon of mulberry
silkworm larvae. Silkworms lay eggs on special paper and eat only fresh
mulberry leaves. Thirty-five days after hatching, the silkworms begin spinning their cocoons. Each cocoon yields 1,000 yards of raw silk thread, which is then
spun to produce a “yarn” of silk. The process is time-consuming and delicate,
which explains the high cost of silk. The fiber gets its brilliant shimmer from
its structure, a triangular prism that reflects light at varying angles.
Another variant of silk, “wild silk”, is produced by caterpillars other than
the mulberry silkworm, and can be harvested in captivity much like traditional silk. The color and texture of wild silk tends to differ from the cultivated
variety, and the fibers are typically shorter, due to damage by the emerging
moth. To preserve the long, silken strands of fiber in cultivated cocoons, the
larvae inside is typically pierced with a needle, and the cocoon is unraveled
without damage.
Process
of developing silk
The first stage of making silk is called the
sericulture, which is the cultivation of silk worms. These worms form a cocoon
by themselves and are then collected by farmers where the farmers then deliver
to the factory. When in the factory, the cocoons are sorted out then made to go
through immersions to soften the gummy substance holding the fibroin strands.
Next, the filament is unwound and combined to give in a thread of raw silk.
Finally, the skeins are packed into bundles and exported to the mill where the fibre
is later woven into silk fabric
Today,
silk fabrics are prevalent in every country, from Indian saris to French couture gowns, it has pervaded all cultures. Its low conductivity
keeps one warm in the winter, while its great absorbency wicks moisture away
during summer. The feel of silk fabric is unmistakable: smooth and luxurious,
the fabric ripples like the surface of water. This quality makes it especially
suitable for sexy lingerie and elegant dresses. It is a fabric reserved for
special occasions, a cloth meant to enhance a momen.
Use of silk in different ways
Silk
fabric is used for many different types of dresses, including wedding gowns,
evening gowns and sarongs. In addition, silk can be used to make dress shirts,
skirts or scarves. Some items of men's clothing are made from silk fabric,
including dress shirts and suits. Ties can also be made from silk fabric, as
well as pocket squares for the pocket on suit jackets and Many home items are
made with silk fabric, including sheets, pillow cases, tablecloths and throw
covers. Silk fabric may also be used for draperies and occasionally as a
high-end wall covering. When using silk fabrics in the home, remember that silk
fabric is very absorbent and stains easily, so moisture should be kept away
from silk.
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