silk fabric

Silk is synonymous with the word elegance. Silk fabrics have a natural sheen and can be worn on all occasions. It sets of the figure to perfection and is a pleasure to wear. Comfort levels exceed even that of cotton and it is perhaps the only natural fiber, which has strength beyond imagination. The advantage with silk fabrics is that it is ideal for any kind of weather. As it is a very good absorbent of moisture and can retain heat, it can be worn both in summer and in winter. It is said that the Chinese were the first people to use silk and silk kimonos look fabulous. It is a very versatile fabric and is eclectic. It goes well with anything and can be worn to work or can be used as eveningwear with minimum effort. It can easily be dyed and dried, and can be washed effectively even at home. A good shampoo (no alkaline ones) will remove oil stains. Best of all, silk fabrics will never shrink and once pressed, they look as good as or better than new.

The origin of silk is interesting. A Chinese concubine is said to have accidentally dropped a cocoon into hot tea and hey presto! A filament of silk emerged. She incidentally is supposed to be the goddess of silk worms. The silk worms that feeds on mulberry leaves are supposed to produce the best silk. There are silk worms that feed on oak leaves and these produce a silk called Tussah silk. This is often referred to as raw silk. Chiffon woven from cotton fibers is very soft , very light and transparent. The silk that is normally referred to is what is known as china silk. Georgette has a crinkly surface, is stretchable and is crepe silk. Unlike chiffon, it is slightly heavy and is translucent. Like chiffon, it drapes very well. 

The uses to which the silk fabric has been put to are interesting. During world war 11, the Chinese government issued pieces of silk fabric, which had the seal of the government and also a serial number. This was a request to the Chinese people to protect the fliers who had these chits. Escape maps were also printed on tiny compact bits of silk fabrics and made watertight. If the aviators were captured, these charts would mislead the enemies.

Silk fabric can be made into suits for men and women. Evening gowns made of silk are absolutely matchless. Nightgowns and pajama suits are made from silk. In the orient silk fabric is made into gowns and kimonos. In Asian countries dress suits and saris made of silk are resplendent. Silk looks expensive, is stunningly elegant and the wearer feels great. It is a wonderful fabric and one can never thank the Chinese concubine enough.

Recommended resource : http://texmin.nic.in/aptcf/  -  Ministry of Textiles India, Office of Textile Commissioner.

 ~ author  Mini Swamy.

copyright data 2004 Indianchild.com

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