UNIT-I Textile Furnishings Soft Furnishing

DEFINITION: Textile furnishing, frequently referred to as soft furnishing, or fabrics used in the home. They include items frequently classified as linens, such as bath and dish towels, table linens, shower curtains, and bathroom ensembles. Related items include sheets, pillowcases, mattresses, blankets, comforters, and bedspreads.
Interior decor, in fact, the whole interior environment of any home decides the comfort, utility of space and the level of effect on one's psyche. Home furnishings, also popular by the names textile furnishings or soft furnishings, are one of the most important component of a home's interior environment. They are flexible, they come in a variety of textures, prints, designs, patterns and fabrics. What else we need other than textile furnishings to give every corner of a home its own identity.Our homes reflect our personalities and lifestyles. Home furnishings speak for themselves. Whether its the old family rocking chair or the elegant draperies at the window, furnishings add a personal touch. Home furnishing is big business today and there is a plethora of stores offering a mind-boggling range of soft furnishings and accessories to do up your house. Take a look at the different types of soft furnishing materials that you can use. Home Furnishing Home furnishings come in a variety of styles. You can go in for a simple yet elegant style or go over the top if your budget allows it. Home product stores offer decorators and home stylists who can aid you in the process of selecting the right kind of grand home furnishings. You can give your home the rustic inn look -- hearth, pinewood floor 1

and rugs or go oriental with rice paper screens and haiku lamps. Home furnishing need not be an expensive project. You can look for bargain sales and do- it- yourself projects and give your house a refurbished look. Coordinated products may come at a discount when bought as a cohesive pack. The use of furnishings adds character and mood to a room. You can go in for a style that suits your lifestyle and taste traditional French to minimalist modern to ethnic chic. But ensure that the furnishing doesnt become the focal point of the room. What you need is a comfortable home a haven that offers a relaxed and peaceful setting. Mix and match your furnishings all it needs is your creativity and time. Keep color schemes and house dimensions in mind before embarking on a home furnishing plan. The architectural elements of a room can be enhanced with the right positioning of accessories and artifacts. A drab window can be livened with a simple yet attractive curtain. Choose a material and print that adds a touch a color. Select curtain rods and finials to suit the window positioning. Voila! You have a window with a new personality! Soft Furnishing Soft furnishings for curtains, draperies, cushions and bed linen are now available in a variety of fabrics ranging from crochets to plaids to cotton voiles and rich tapestry. Silk is a rich furnishing fabric that has beauty, rare and distinctive. Embroidered silk and silk brocade and a host of other selections and varieties are available for home furnishings. Using the right colors for soft furnishings can give a totally new look and feel to a room. Dark colors against a light colored wall can be a heady contrast. Large patterns on small windows or small rooms can create an overpowering effect. Instead, small patterns or self-patterned fabrics are a better bet. The rich feel and look of jacquard and tapestry makes for an opulent style. Taffeta and damask fabrics are popular as table linen and curtains. Draperies: Insulated curtains lower heating and cooling costs. You can dress up your windows with curtains of different kinds. The choice of curtain fabrics and styles would depend on the kind of window that is being dressed. If privacy is necessary, then you need to go in for thick curtains. Olefin velvet can endure heavy use and

is a good choice for humid places. Nylon velvet is ideal for family areas. Crocheted curtains are an alternative to the traditional materials such as nylon and velvet. White lace curtains inspire the relaxed and comfortable feeling, reminiscent of a romantic country inn. These simple lace curtains bring a fresh and welcome look to a room. They are an ideal alternative to heavy drapes. But these sheer curtains get easily soiled. Dressy drapes are given a lining with another fabric to add extra body. Combine draperies with shades, valances and ornamentation and you can get a well-dressed window. For kitchens, a short curtain suffices whereas sheer curtains create a romantic look that goes well with bedrooms. Window locations and sun exposure also play a role in deciding the right kind of fabric. Direct exposure to the Sun and its harmful Ultra-Violet radiation can quickly fade the fabrics, upholstery and rugs. So it would be prudent to use non-fabric shades to mask the sensitive fabrics from direct sunlight. Cushions: Fabrics for cushions will depend on the kind of use they are going to be put to. With little kids around, you need robust and sturdy fabrics that can withstand the rigors of grubby fingers and rough handling. If the cushion is for decorative purposes, delicate fabrics such as silks and muslins are preferred. Plain cushions can be enhanced with decorative braids or patterned piping. Using tassels, appliqu designs and fringing can add a fillip to an otherwise simple cushion. Beds: Nothing is more inviting than a cool and comfortable bed that allows you to sink in and catch a good nights rest! Bed linen can range from bedspreads and comforters to quilts and duvet covers. Choose bed linen and fabrics keeping the weather in mind. Thick colorful quilts can brighten up a pale bedroom style. You can get very adventurous with kids bedrooms. Gaily printed sheets with coordinated pillow covers are available in a variety of designs that will appeal to the little ones. Upholstery: Sofa upholstery should be sturdy and in a color that harmonizes with the room. Slipcovers used on sofas can provide a new look at an affordable price. You can play around with fabrics of different colors and textures to create an 2

effect that is aesthetic and functional. A drab sofa can be trimmed with bright cushions. There are a wide variety of styles for upholstery. Leather is a durable upholstery material that can withstand children and pets. Used widely as a soft furnishing, leather outlasts fabric 4 to 1. With a simple maintenance routine, leather can retain its original gloss and give good value for money. Woven damask and jacquard can provide an elegant and classic look. Many synthetic weaves offer the convenience of easy washing and stainresistant qualities. Rugs and Carpets : Are you faced with a stark room, dull walls and drab furniture? Add a touch of color with a brightly colored rug and watch the room liven up. Choose a rug or carpet depending on the area you want to cover. Scatter rugs are used for adorning smaller spaces and adding a touch of warmth. The color and design of the rug plays an important part in giving the complete room a new look. You can go in for dull camel or nutty hazel or exotic blues and reds. Prints range from floral to geometric to abstract. Light colored carpets make a room appear more spacious. Deep colors add coziness to a room. Rugs and carpets are available in a variety of fabrics and textures wool, synthetic yarns such as nylon, olefin, polyester and acrylic. Dense pile with close stitches and tufts make for longer lasting material. Twisted yarn adds to durability. Machine made rugs are available for much lesser than hand made ones and look just as good. They are easier to maintain. The understated luster of natural fibers of course cannot be matched.

Home Furnishing Industry

An Introduction
The Interior Textiles segment of the home furnishings market includes household textiles viz. Carpets and rugs, bedding products, kitchen linen, bathroom furnishings, window treatments, hammocks, table linen, curtains, and upholstery fabrics. It is directly proportionate to the number of houses and the countries having largest number of houses namely China, India and USA, in that order, are the largest markets for home furnishings. Europe also represents a significant market with Germany, France and the UK having biggest number of houses. In figures, about $30

billion worth of home textiles are imported by the US & EU

Home Textiles Production - The Global Players

The global trade of Home textile is expected to grow from $8.6 billion to $23 billion in 2010. The majority of home textiles are produced in Asia. Lower prices and high volume products have contributed to the expansion of exports particularly from China and India. This growth trend of China and India are predicted to continue till 2011. Other major producers of home textiles are Japan, Australia & New Zealand . The major producers of home furnishing items are China, India, USA, Portugal, Brazil & Turkey to name a few. China leads in the bed linen exports having 95% share on both value & volume basis. The USA, India and Spain are the other top exporters of bed linen which is mainly exported to Japan. Pakistan, Bangladesh and Vietnam have emerged as major competitors of China and India.

enhance the fabrics performance. However, Cotton still dominates the home textile market. It is often combined with polyester to make a more durable fabric. Due to its qualities like strength, warmth, abrasion resistance and resistance to moths and mildew, polyester dominates the carpet and curtain segments. The share of cotton and man-made fibers in the total fiber consumed in production of home textiles account for around 38% and 37% respectively.

Home Furnishing Fabrics

Home furnishing fabrics plays a very important role in any of the home decor. There are different kinds of fabrics used for different type of home furnishing that plays a major role for enhancing the look of any home. Creating an own family of fabric, there are different kinds of friendly fabrics which comes under home furnishing. Mainly used for making different articles at home, there is a different family of fabric which is available in different kinds Have much in demand, home furnishing fabrics is the choice of many people which is warm breathable and lightweight. Non-absorbent, soft, wrinkle free, stretch resistant home furnishing fabric works well and plays a effective role in drawing room etc. Fabulous embroidered fabric are used for the easy transformation of home furnishing fabrics into exquisite designer pieces. Home furnishing fabric when used in the home decor completely changes the entire look of the home. Sometimes rubber printed fabrics, crushed fabrics, and other printed fabrics are used for home decor. Unequal level of charisma could be seen easily in home furnishing fabric which is world famous. This fabric is available in vast range in the form for Indian home decorations. This home furnishing fabric give rise to variety of material with exotic and impressive colors have been used in the decoration of large number of decorative items. Spell bound with its exotic variety, the home furnishing fabric comes in large array of styles and designs winning the hearts of thousands of people. This home furnishing fabric is easily available in majority 3

Developments and Innovations in Home Textiles

A large number of significant developments have taken place in home textiles over recent years. The global market of home furnishings, also called soft furnishings, have a very wide range of fiber combinations, fabrics, designs, textures and colours to offer. Performance apparel technologies are now successfully used in home textile products also. For instance, bed sheets are being made from such fabrics which have a moisture management technology or insulation material and which were traditionally used for manufacturing active and outdoor performance wear. Home textiles are also being made from various functional materials including thermally adaptive bedding, environmental-friendly textiles, antimicrobial fabrics, stain protective treatments, flame retardant materials and fragrance encapsulating technologies. As far as fiber usage is concerned, home textiles were traditionally made from cotton and wool but today natural fibers are blended with man-made fibers, in a variety of ways, to

of shops for providing extra edge to the home decor which is very important part of ones living.

Handmade
New colours and designs consistently add to the very popular and versatile brushed handmade fabrics. Handmade fabrics are lightweight and tightly woven from fine yarns, produced by using traditional techniques of hand dying, warping, weaving and washing. The unique qualities of handmade fabrics make them ideal for creating kitchen accessories, curtains and valances. Handmade fabrics bring about the natural feel for making all of the upholstery, drapery or other home craft projects. One can choose between several styles of weaves, as well as hemp fabrics, and hemp, silk, or cotton blends. These natural fabrics are machine washable, and are specially woven for rudimentary finishing, so they take on the same soft, full drape after numerous washings. Each weave is also thick enough to allow to skip the effort and expense of lining - especially beneficial in sewing draperies and clothing, because natural breathability is created. These fabrics are great for draperies, wall coverings, upholstery, slip covers, bed or table linens, displays, costumes, clothing and anything one can imagine.

calico, tabby, taffeta, or homespun weaves, the weft passes over alternate warp threads, requiring two harnesses only. The relatively simple construction suits it to cheap fabrics, heavy yarns, and printed designs. Twill Weave: The second primary weave, twill, shows a diagonal design made by causing weft threads to interlace two to four warp threads, moving a step to right or left on each pick and capable of variations, such as herringbone and corkscrew designs. Noted for their firm, close weave, twill fabrics include gabardine, serge, drill, and denim. Satin Weave: Satin weave has floating or overshot warp threads on the surface which reflect light, giving a characteristic luster. When the uncrossed threads are in the weft, the weave is called sateen. Types Of Woven Fabrics Pile fabrics have an additional set of yarns drawn over wires to form loops, and may be cut or uncut. Warp-pile fabrics include terry and plush; weft-pile, velveteen and corduroy. Velvet is commonly woven as a double cloth. In swivel weaving, extra shuttles with a circular motion insert filling yarns to form simple decorations, such as the dots on swiss muslin. The Jacquard loom attachment permits machine weaving of the most complicated designs. Fabrics, the basic material of textile industry has varied usage in the production of different items. Its supply chain can remain smooth only if there is a continuous supply of textile fabric from various textile fabric manufacturers and wholesale companies. Fabrics are usually differentiated on the basis of composition having two types of fabrics, Natural Fabrics, and Synthetic Fabrics. Differentiation of fabric by usage is also common that may include Apparel Fabrics, Bags Fabrics, Clothing Fabrics, Home Furnishing Fabrics, Hosiery Fabrics, Industrial Fabrics among others. Fabrics categorized on the basis of manufacturing process are also in demand by various manufacturers. These fabrics include Blended Fabric, Warp Knit Fabric, Ribbed Fabric, Satin Fabric, and Crocheted Fabric. Of late Specialty Fabrics like Flame Resistant Fabric, Laminated Fabric, Carbon 4

Woven
Woven dipicts the art of forming a fabric by interlacing at right angles two or more sets of yarn or other material. It is one of the most ancient fundamental arts, the 18th-century weaving and spinning inventions marked the transition from the old era of domestic craftsmanship to the tremendous, organized industry of today. Some of the finest silks, velvets, table linens, and carpets are still woven on handlooms. Classification Woven fabrics are classified as to weave or structure according to the manner in which warp and weft cross each other. The three fundamental weaves, of which others are variations, are the plain, twill and satin. Plain Weave: In plain weave, also known as

Fabric, Fiberglass Fabric etc have also become important for various manufacturers. If quality products have to be manufactured, the first and the foremost concern is the cautious selection of fabrics. The Manufacturers select Fabric by usage. It means that the production of different goods like apparel, bags, bedding, curtain, drapery, industrial clothing, all need a different kind of fabric than the other. This underlines the need of proper and comprehensive information about Fabrics & it's manufacturers. There are innumerable Fabric Companies that manufacture myriad types of fabrics spread across the globe. This Fabrics Companies Directory is compilation of information about fabric manufacturers and wholesale companies from 200 different geographies dealing in all type of quality fabrics like Natural Fabrics, Synthetic Fabrics, Specialty Fabrics, Blended, Warp Knit, Ribbed, Satin, and Crochet Fabric.

Characteristics of Cotton Fabric The cotton fiber is from the cotton plant's seed pod. The fiber is hollow in the center and under a microscope looks like a twisted ribbon. "Absorbent" cotton will retain 24-27 times its own weight in water and is stronger when wet than dry. This fiber absorbs and releases perspiration quickly, thus allowing the fabric to "breathe". Cotton can stand high temperatures and takes dyes easily. Cotton can also be ironed at relatively high temperatures, stands up to abrasion and wears well. Cotton Fabrics and Weaves Duck: It is a heavy, durable tightly woven fabric. Heavy weight drill is used in awnings, tents, etc. Lighter duck is used in summer clothing Flannel: This cotton is plain or twill weave with a slight nap on one or both sides. Oxford: It is a fabric with a lustrous, soft finish. It is characterized with narrow stripes and can be woven in plain or basket weave. Also a term used for wool fabric that has black and white fibers. Terry Cloth: It is a looped pile fabric that is either woven or knitted. Very absorbent and used for towels, etc. French terry cloth is looped on one side and sheared pile on the other.

Fabrics
Common fabrics used in home furnishings are: Silk Fabric Cotton Fabric Jute Fabric Rayon Fabric Wool Fabric Nylon Fabric Polyester Fabric Plastic Fabric Leather Fabric Satin Fabric Organza Fabric Organdy Fabric

Jute Fabric
Known as the raw material for sacks all over the world. Jute is truly one of the most versatile fibers gifted to man by nature that finds various uses in the form of Handicrafts. Next to cotton, jute is the cheapest and most important of all textile fibers. Jute cultivation provides work for millions of farmers, landless laborers, industrial workers and provides jobs for many others, indirectly. Characteristics of Jute Fabric Jute is a long, soft, shiny fiber that can be spun into coarse, strong threads. It is one of the cheapest natural fibers, and is second only to cotton in amount produced and variety of uses. Jute fibers are composed primarily of the plant materials cellulose, lignin, and pectin. Both the fiber and the plant from which it comes are commonly called jute. Usage 5

Cotton Fabric
Cotton is a cool, soft, comfortable and the principal home furnishing fiber of the world. Cotton fabrics, as they come from the loom in their rough, unfinished stages, are known as greige goods. Most undergo various finishing processes to meet specific end-use requirements. Some mills, in addition to spinning and weaving, also dye or print their fabrics and finish them. Finishing processes are numerous and complex, reflecting today's tremendous range and combination of colors, textures and special qualities.

The uses of jute are manifold although the traditional use remains in packing as sacking, hessian and carpet backing. These light weight yarns are to be used in value added textile applications like upholstery, furnishing, garments and bags etc, are just a few examples. Jute is used chiefly to make cloth for wrapping bales of raw cotton, and to make gunny sacks and gunny cloth. The fibers are also woven into curtains, chair coverings, carpets, and burlap. However, jute is being replaced by synthetic materials for these uses. Very fine threads of jute are made into imitation silk. The fibers are used alone or blended with other types of fibers to make twine and rope.

also be woven of cotton or man-made fibers. Georgette: It is sheer crepe silk, heavier than chiffon and with a crinkle surface. China silk: It is a plain weave silk of various weights. This silk is the "hand" or touch that many people identify as silk. There are various weights of China silk from light, used for linings and many "washable silks" with the wrinkled look, to heavy for shirts and dresses. Doupioni: It is reeled from double cocoons nested together. The threads are uneven and irregular. Italian Doupioni is the finest, followed by Chinese Doupioni and Indian Doupioni. Doupioni is also seen in man-made fibers such as polyester, acetate and referred to as Doupionini.

Silk Fabric
Silk fabric has a soft, lustrous and supple hand. For centuries silk has had a reputation as a luxurious and sensuous fabric, one associated with wealth and success. Silk is one of the oldest textile fibers known to man. It has been used by the Chinese since the 27th century BC. Silk is mentioned by Aristotle and became a valuable commodity both in Greece and Rome. During the Roman Empire, silk was sold for its weight in gold. Characteristics of Silk Fabric Cultivated silk is a beautiful luxurious fiber with a smooth luxurious hand. This type of silk can be dyed and printed in bright colors that are very pleasing to the eye. Silk's abrasion resistance is moderate. However, it is ranked high in strength for natural fibers. Silk fabrics have good absorbency. Fabrics made from silk are comfortable in the summer and warm in the winter. Silk fabrics have only moderate resistance to wrinkling. It is often recommended that silk garments be dry-cleaned. When hand or machine washing washable silk garments, test for water spotting in an obscure place because silk getswater-spots easily. Silk Fabrics & Weaves Brocade: It is a jacquard weave with an embossed effect and contrasting surfaces. Can also be woven with synthetic or man-made fibers. Chiffon: It is transparent, soft and light silk. Can 6

Wool Fabric
Wool is the fiber derived from the hair of domesticated animals, usually sheep. Most of the fiber from domestic sheep has two qualities that distinguish it from being hair or fur: Wool is scaled in such a way that it helps the animal move out burrs and seeds that might embed themselves into its skin; and it is crimped, in some fleeces more than 20 bends per inch. Both the scaling and the crimp make it possible to spin and felt the fleece. They help the individual fibers "grab" each other so that they stay together. Characteristics of Wool Fabric Wool grows in several natural colors such as black, brown, grey and the most commonly available, white. Wool of any color takes dye easily and can be felted. Wool straight from a sheep is highly water-resistant. It is said to be "in the grease", the grease being lanolin, and can be worked into yarn and knit into water-resistant mittens. This fabric retains heat better than other fabrics when wet. Uses In addition to clothing, wool has been used for carpeting, felting, and padding. Wool is used to absorb odors and noise in heavy machinery and stereo speakers. Ancient Greeks lined their helmets with felt and Roman legionnaires used breastplates made of wool felt.

Satin Fabric

Satin is a thick cloth that has a glossy surface and a dull back. It is traditionally made of silk in which the filling is so arranged as to bind the warp as seldom as possible and so spaced that practically nothing shows but the warp. Satin was first woven by the ancient silk weavers of China and was greatly desired by early Greeks and Romans. In the middle ages, satin was rare and costly and was used for churchly and royal garments. As the secrets of silk making were carried westward, splendid satins were woven in Genoa and Florence, then at Lyons and in England in the 15th cent. Modern satins are made in a great variety of fibers, including synthetic ones. Lush silk is easy to sew but needs to be underlined to maintain shape. This is a satin that is reminiscent of turn-of-the-century ball gowns glistening under gaslight chandeliers. It is excellent for bridal, christening, fancy evening ballgowns. It also makes beautiful drapes, although expensive.

wet strength. As a result, it becomes unstable and may stretch or shrink when wet. High Wet Modulus (HWM) Rayon It is a modified viscose that has virtually the same properties as regular rayon, plus high wet strength. HWM rayons can be machine washed and tumble dried and perform much like cotton in similar end uses. HWM rayons can also be mercerized, like cotton, for increased strength and luster. High Tenacity Rayon It is a modification of "regular rayon" to provide exceptional strength. High tenacity rayon is primarily found in tire cord and industrial end uses. It may be finished, chemically coated, or rubberized for protection from moisture and potential loss of dimensional stability and strength during use.

Nylon Fabric
Nylon is a synthetic thermoplastic material characterized by strength, elasticity, resistance to abrasion and chemicals, low moisture absorbency, and capacity to be permanently set by heat. Nylon was introduced as monofilaments for bristles and as multifilament yarn for hosiery. There is a variety of nylons, all being polyamides frequently made from diamines and dicarboxylic acids. Characteristics of Nylon Fabric Nylon is stronger yet weighs less than any other commonly used fiber. It is elastic and resilient and responsive to heat setting. Nylon fibers are smooth, non-absorbent and dry quickly. Dirt doesn't cling to this smooth fiber nor is it weakened by chemicals and perspiration. Extensive washing and drying in an automatic dryer can eventually cause piling. Nylon can be pre-colored or dyed in a wide range of colors. Uses Nylon is now manufactured also in the form of sheets, coatings, and molded plastics and used in a variety of products, including fabrics, surgical sutures, thread, insulating wire coverings, mosquito netting and screening, gears and bearings, rope, and tire cords.

Rayon Fabric
Rayon was the world's first man-made fiber. It initiated the transformation of the textile industry that continues with new generations of synthetics. In the 1880s a Frenchman, Count Hillaire de Chardonnet, discovered that nitrocellulose derived from rags or wood pulp could be used to produce a man-made fiber. Characteristics of Rayon Fabric Rayon's cellulosic base contributes many properties similar to those of cotton or other natural cellulosic fibers. Rayon is moisture absorbent, breathable, comfortable to wear, and easily dyed in vivid colors. It does not build up static electricity, nor will it pill unless the fabric is made from short, low-twist yarns. Rayon is comfortable, soft to the skin, and has moderate dry strength and abrasion resistance. Types of Rayon The major types or modifications of rayon are: Regular Rayon has the largest market share. It is typically found in apparel and home furnishings and identified on labels by the term "viscose". The distinguishing property of regular rayon is its low 7

Polyester Fabric
Polyester is a synthetic fiber, produced by the polymerization of the product formed when an alcohol and organic acid react. Strong, crisp, soft

hand, polyester fabrics are resistant to stretching and shrinkage. These are quick to dry and are resilient, wrinkle resistant with excellent pleat retention. Polyester is also used in casement curtains, throw rugs, and as a cushioning or insulating material. Characteristics of Polyester Fabric The outstanding characteristic of polyester is its ability to resist wrinkling and to spring back into shape when creased. In addition, polyester has good dimensional stability, wash and dry easily and quickly, and has excellent wash-and-wear or minimum-care characteristics; one of their principal uses is in apparel fabrics of this kind. Because of its low absorbency, stain removal can be a problem. Polyester melts at medium to high temperatures. Blends of polyester give cotton a permanent press property and extend the wear of these blended garments. Uses Although many people dislike polyester, perhaps due to the double knit fad of the 1950, polyester remains a versatile and an important man-made fabric. Major end uses is essentially in every form of clothing and in making of curtains, draperies, floor coverings, fiber fill, upholstery and bedding.

interfacings for sheers or semi-sheers or where an extremely light stiffening is required.

Organdy Fabric
A sheer, lightweight, cotton fabric made with an open, plain weave and very fine, tightly twisted single yarns. Organdy has crisp to stiff drape that may be gathered, pleated or shirred into a bouffant fullness. It may be used alone or paired with another fabric to add fullness and loft. The fabric wrinkles and crushes easily, but it is quickly smoothed with a hot iron. It is often confused with organza, which is a sheer crisp, plain weave fabric of man-made or silk fibers Characteristics of Organdy Fabric It is made with tightly twisted yarns. Crispness is due to a finish with starch and calendaring which washes out, or a permanent crispness obtained with chemicals (Heberlein process). It wrinkles badly unless given a wrinkle-free finish (bellmanizing). It may be bleached, dyed, printed, frosted, flocked, embroidered, or plisse. Uses It is used to make semi-fitted, puffed or bouffant evening wear, dresses, blouses, children's clothing, curtains, interfacings and facings. It is also used to make fussy children's wear, trims, collars and cuffs, baby's wear, bonnets, artificial flowers, dolls clothes, millinery, summer formals, blouses, curtains, bedspreads, aprons.

Organza Fabric
Organza is a sheer, thin open weave fabric that is heavier and crisper than silk gauze. It has a smooth, flat finish, is strong and durable, and gets its stiffness from tightly twisted yarns. It is often used as the base fabrics for embellished fabrics. It can be dyed any color but it has some minor distortion from dyeing because of sheerness and irregularity of twisted yarns. It is washable and retains crispness only if washed in cold water and needs to be pressed while still wet General Uses Silk organza is very light-weight and sheer, but a bit stiff, and can be gathered for bouffant uses, used alone or over other fabrics for fitted to loosely fitted blouses, dresses and evening wear. It is also useful for facings, interfacings or lining. Silk organza can be used as an underlining to add crispness to parts of a garment. It sews easily, doesn't show pin holes. It is usually reserved for underlining another silk, flower girl dresses, christening dresses, some bedding accessories and 8

Pile fabric
Pile fabrics are currently enjoying a renewed popularity. They are not only an important upholstery fabric but also are gaining importance in other textile end-uses such as apparel, footwear, toys and accessories. Pile fabrics are made in both natural and synthetic fibres as well as natural and synthetic fibre blends.

Non Woven
Non-wovens are textiles made of fibers that have been bonded into a fabric. Non-woven fabrics are made by methods other than weaving or knitting, the yarns and fibers being held together, often quite loosely, by means other than geometric

interlacing. These fabrics can vary from felts which have loose and open structures of essentially random fibers, to thin semi-regular arrays of yarns, not dissimilar to conventional textile fabrics. Charecteristics Of Non Woven Non-wovens are typically not strong, unless reinforced by a backing and do not stretch. Nonwoven fibrous materials include felts, mats, fillers, insulation, diaper fillings, absorbers and adsorbers, filters, and endless other things made from chopped, random length and continuous fibers which are laid down in organized or random manner and which simulate woven fabrics and are used in similar ways. Non woven fabrics provide specific functions such as absorbency, liquid repellence, resilience, stretch, softness, strength, flame redundancy, wash ability, cushioning, filtering, bacterial barrier and sterility. These properties are often combined to create fabrics suited for specific jobs, while achieving a good balance between product use life and cost. Uses They can mimic the appearance, texture and strength of a woven fabric and can be as bulky as the thickest padding. In combination with other materials they provide a spectrum of products with diverse properties, and are used alone or as components of apparel, home furnishings, health care, engineering, industrial and consumer goods.

aniline leather, where the surface has been brushed and polished and has a velvet like texture with lush appearance. It is also known as Chaps, Distressed, and Bomber. Like velvet, the textured surface will show a difference in shading when you run your hand over it. Goat Suede: Goat Suede is generally the inner side of the hide or skin next to the meat of the animal, buffed to a smooth finish. Suede may also be split from a thick hide. Goat Suede is available in many attractive finishes with different texture. Cow Nappa: Cow Nappa is a smooth and soft surface leather, which is taken out from the outer skin of the cow. This leather is available in various colors and finishes. Due to its softness, cow nappa leather is used in making a host of fashion apparels. This leather is wrinkle free. Lamp Nappa: Lamp Nappa leather is the softest leather, which is taken out from a lamb or young sheep. Its a soft and light-weight leather. It is generally used for making sports wear jackets. Sheep Nappa: Originally, only sheep skin was referred to as "Nappa." However, in recent years, the word "Nappa" has become an adjective, meaning "soft" and now this term covers all leathers with a smooth and soft surface, which comes from the outer of the animal. Pig Suede: Pig Suede leather is generally the inner side of the hide or skin next to the meat of the pig, buffed to a smooth finish. Suede may also be split from a thick hide.

Leather Fabric
Leather will always bear the marks of its natural origin and these characteristics can show as scratches, growth marks, areas of differing fiber density and hair pore structure. These characteristics in no way detract from the wearing qualities of the leather. With use, it develops a patina, which enhances its beauty. Types of Leather Aniline Leather: Aniline leather is the most natural looking leather with the unique surface characteristics of the hide remaining visible. Aniline leather is colored only with dye and not with a surface coating of polymer and pigment . Nubuck Leather : Nubuck Leather is actually 9

Plastic Fabric
The term plastic covers a range of synthetic or semi-synthetic organic condensation or polymerization products that can be molded or extruded into objects or films or fibers. The name is derived from the fact that in their semi-liquid state they are malleable, or have the property of plasticity. Plastics vary immensely in temperature tolerance, hardness, and resiliency. Combined with this adaptability, the general uniformity of composition and lightness of plastics ensures their use in almost all industrial applications today. Characteristics of Plastic These are organic material with the ability to flow into a desired shape when heat and pressure are

applied to them and to retain the shape when they are withdrawn. People have been using artificial organic polymers for centuries in the form of waxes and shellacs. A plant polymer named "cellulose" provides the structural strength for natural fibers and ropes, and by the early 19th century natural rubber, tapped from rubber trees, was in widespread use. Types Of Plastic There are two basic types of plastic: thermosetting, which cannot be re-softened after being subjected to heat and pressure; and thermoplastic, which can be repeatedly softened and re-molded by heat and pressure. When heat and pressure are applied to a thermoplastic binder, the chainlike polymers slide past each other, giving the material "plasticity." However, when heat and pressure are initially applied to a thermosetting binder, the molecular chains become cross-linked, thus preventing any slippage if heat and pressure are reapplied

colors, they will definitely provide a contemporary look. And here is the versatile knit fabric, that can give all kind of colors, forms, textures and dimensions to a room. They can be used for almost any home furnishingscushion covers, bed coverings, sofa throws, rugs, curtains, sofa covers and what not! They are capable of giving traditional as well as contemporary look, that too with style.

Techniques
Large number of and kinds of textiles are being used to mnaufacture beautiful home furnishings. Cotton, viscose, silk, sheer are few of the popular textules used. Various techniques are employed by manufacturers and exporters to further beautify the textile, this can range from printed to embroidered textile, from woven to knitted textile etc. Printed Embroidered Woven Non Woven Dyed Stitched Handmade

Styles Achieved Through Fabrics

A house furnished with exactly the right home furnishing fabrics at the right place truly gives a heavenly experience. And for this 'so-muchdesired' experience, people spend money on everything from interior decorator's fee to furniture, flooring and many more things just to create magical environment with right match of color, theme, textures and fabrics. In fact, fabrics can give stylish, traditional as well as contemporary look to any decor. Chenille fabric and printed flocked fabric, used with a creamy white background color along with subtle shades of patterns will give a shabby chic style to a room. The rough strong corduroy fabric, used in various coverings, curtains and cushions give a contemporary stylish look. The same corduroy when combined with Damask- plain or with patterns- will give a traditional appearance. Jacquard fabric and brocade fabric-again available in plain or patterns- will give traditional looks. Stripes and chequered fabrics can make a room look bright and informal and when different sized stripes and checks are mixed and matched with complimentary 10

Printed
Printing is done on all kinds of fabrics, such as cotton, silk, viscose, rayon, pure linen, pure hemp, pure ramie and other polyester fabrics. Fabric printing involves the production, by various means, of coloured patterns or designs on all kinds of textile materials. Beautiful tropical designs, quaint cartoon figures, bold geometric, abstract designs and luscious fruit and flowers are some of the famous prints. Just as fashion changed and evolved through the decades, so did the styles of the printed fabrics. Designs & Styles Styling of printed fabrics are characterized by geometric prints, squares, circles, stylized florals, good luck symbols, horse shoes, wishbones, laurel wreaths, and ribbon and animal prints. Other popular styles are human

forms with insect wings, butterflies, peacocks, women with flowing hair, the Iris flower, and fantasy type prints and moon and stars. Floral prints include roses, lilacs and morning glories were some of the new flowers that are in vogue.Techniques Stenciling is restricted to single and very low volume prints, custom windsocks and kites for example, where the graphic is too fine for applique, or for large banners printed on synthetic fabrics. Block printing is the method to create prints with a block of wood, copper or other material bearing a design in intaglio with the dye paste applied to the surface is pressed on the fabric and struck with a mallet. More recent printing processes include screen printing, a hand method especially suitable for large patterns with soft outlines, in which screens, one for each color, are placed on the fabric and the color paste pressed through by a wooden squeegee; spray printing, in which a spray gun forces the color through a screen; and electro coating, used to apply a patterned pile.

There are various widely acclaimed dyeing techniques for a variety of fabric, in which the dyers transfer colors, images or designs to the fabric and textile through various dyeing techniques. Tie dye & batik is famous dye. Batik is a method of dyeing fabric using removable wax on the parts of the fabric where dye is not required. Tie dye is a method of dyeing fabric after knotting or rubber banding it to produce interesting and irregular patterns. Characteristics Needed in Textile Furnishings
Home furnishings

Dyed
Dyed fabrics are a rage in the international market and has gained worldwide recognition based on the sheer variety of natural and synthetic dyes available here, and the distinct types of dyeing methods employed in the textile industry. Dye is any substance, natural or synthetic, used to color various types of fabrics. Dyers use both types of dyes; natural as well as synthetic dyes for processing of fabrics.

are not meant only for decoration. They have to be enough strong or light, resistant to some materials such as water or fire, and should have many other properties according the purpose they are intended to be used. Curtain fabrics should have light fastness. Upholstery fabrics and curtain fabrics again should have resistance to seam slippage. Bedding fabrics should have resistance to pilling and stains. Quilting fabrics and fabrics used for pillow covers, cushion covers, mattress cover etc. should have resistance to snagging. Fabrics for kitchen linen should be flame resistant fabric. Shower curtains should be made from water repellent fabrics. Other fabrics for bathroom furnishings like bath towels should have high water absorption ability. Upholstery and other fabrics like that for aprons should have shape retention capability. It is this requirement of properties that some fabrics are preferred more for one home furnishing item and some others are liked for other home furnishings

Types

Of

Dyes

Dyes are classified also as acidic or basic according to the medium required in the dyeing process. A vat dye, e.g., indigo, is so called from the method of its application; it is first treated chemically so that it becomes soluble and is then used for coloring materials bathed in a vat. Although some materials, e.g., silk and wool, can be colored simply by being dipped in the dye, others, including cotton, commonly require the use of a mordant that fixes the dye to the fiber.

Factors Affecting Selection of Home Furnishing:

recognizing current trends and issues in housing and interior design (e.g., energy efficiency, technology, environmental issues) demonstrating knowledge of the elements and principles of design and color theory recognizing how social, psychological, physical, environmental, cultural, and economic 11

Techniques

factors affect interior design applying knowledge of space-planning skills (e.g., creating floor plans, reading blueprints, computer drafting) used to plan or modify interior and exterior living environments recognizing functional and aesthetic factors (e.g., use of space, traffic flow, focal point) related to designing various living environments demonstrating knowledge of the advantages and limitations of various lighting options, wall treatments, floor coverings, window treatments, and finishes demonstrating knowledge of historical and contemporary furniture styles; furnishings; and architectural finishes, treatments, coverings, and household equipment recognizing factors that affect the selection of home furnishings (e.g., durability, affordability, care requirements, accessibility to the marketplace) demonstrating knowledge of basic home care and maintenance procedures, and home safety issues identifying procedures (e.g., laundering, mending garments) for cleaning and maintaining different types of textile products

aesthetically

as

possible."

Recent Trends Furnishing

In

Home

A beautiful home is truly a home-owner's delight. But most home-owners hesitate to start any redecoration projects because finding the right look and style for your home is usually easier said than done. Doing up your home is not just about choosing the right colour of paint or picking pretty drapes., "A home must reflect it's owner's personality. The true mark of a well designed home is one that merges comfort with style at the same time ensuring that it speaks volumes about the people who reside in it. The same holds true for corporate interiors as well. When you walk into MTV's office, you expect to see a fair amount of jazz and energy. Multihued walls would fit right in. Now, can you imagine the same kind of interiors for a Bank? Of course not! So really interiors is all about what the owner wants and how to achieve the results as 12

Be Vibrant With Colours: Brilliant and lively colours such as rich fuchsias, electric blue, bright ochre yellows, and purples are what's going to be popular in the coming year. Interior designer Kumpal Mittal says, "Gone are the days when staid creams and dull greys were seen all through a home. People now want something to brighten up their living spaces and adding vibrant colours is just the way to do that." If that's too drastic for you, try doing up just 1 wall of your bedroom or living room in a bright colour instead of all of them. Less Is More: Clean surfaces and straight lines is what define the newest concept of interior decorating. More like a futuristic look where less is definitely more. As far as finish is concerned, it's glossy all the way. Matte is definitely out. Accents & Accessories: 2008 is going to see people use accent pieces as accessories, even if they are few in number. Strategically placed acrylic lamps and area rugs are very popular and can make a room look much more attractive without spending too much. Animal skins as rugs make for extremely eye-catching accessories. Hey! We're all for preventing cruelty to animals so faux fur is fine too. Mirror Mirror On The Wall: Wallpapers are making a comeback, cool coloured ones at that. Mounting glass on walls also provides a cool glossy look and can be quite functional as well. You can backlight the glass for a really great look. Another great thing about using glass and mirrors on walls is that it makes tiny spaces look larger. Jointless Flooring: Flooring that does not have any joints is the new trend and looks very clean and classy. A jointless look can be achieved using vinyl, or through poured concrete with epoxy or mosaic. The look that is achieved is incomparable to anything else, but yes such flooring can be quite high maintenance. If completely jointless flooring is not practical, try and use larger sized tiles and bigger slabs of marble or granite, so as to reduce the number of joints in the flooring. According to Mittal, another important thing people must keep in mind when decorating their homes is that they need to plan ahead. Many people start off with no concrete idea of what they want to achieve. Consequently not only do they waste a lot of time and energy, but end up with

homes that are nowhere close to what they originally wanted. Fun Furniture: Once again, the trend is shifting towards simple, straight lined furniture. Adding a hint of accent material on the furniture gives it an added design appeal. Accent materials such as leather (as patches), cork, beaten copper, mother of pearl (as studs) can make your furniture very different and attractive. Gone are the days of 3seater sofas with huge arms and even bigger backs. Recreational Spaces: If you can find some extra space in your house, then think about converting it into a personal Den or a Study. Such spaces are very trendy and are also very functional as they provide you with some much-needed space for recreational activities. You can use the space to house a home library, to work in, to exercise in (by installing a treadmill or other home exercise equipment), or to simply relax in surrounded by your music instruments, TV, CDs, DVDs, and gaming consoles. Natural Materials: Nowadays, materials used in their raw form are quite in vogue says Mittal. Bison boards and MDF boards polished in the raw form look stylish and chic, such as the boards used for the bar in this picture. Also, try and use natural veneers for furniture instead of Formicas. Lighting: And lastly, to create the perfect ambience in your home, that is cosy and warm; you should install mood lighting in the form of indirect lighting. Uplights, shades, and encased lights can all do the trick wonderfully. Dimmers also help to create the desired mood lighting. Save harsh tube-lights for the children's study room.

Eco-Decorating Eco-decorating or green decorating has been a trend for quite a while and this is the one trend you can really bank on continuing and possibly becoming evergreen. Look for colors that are inspired by nature, materials that are made in an environmentally friendly way and look for more wood everywhere. Believe it or not, wood paneling is even becoming popular again.

Clothing Inspired Decorating

Decorating in a way that reflects your personal dressing style is gaining in popularity. People are realizing that the colors that they know look good on them also look good around them. If youd like to explore this decorating trend you first have to take a trip through your closet and make note of your favorite colors, prints, and styles. Then examine your accessories and get an overall sense for what you like to accessorize with. Keeping this all in mind, translate it to interiors and youve got a home that will not only flatter you but everything youre wearing as well.

Music Influenced Decorating

Another way to take personal style and translate it into home dcor is a little more obscure but becoming trendy, decorating influenced by musical styles. If youre really drawn to a type of music and that is an integral part of your life then you may want to lean your decorating in that direction. Country music fans would lean toward more rugged interiors with earthy colors. Heavy metal music enthusiasts would be more apt to like black and silver colors with hard edges and metallic accents.

2011 Interior Decorating Trends

Interior decorating is beginning to become a hot topic once again as the economy is seeming to recover and people have a little more money to spend on home interiors. But throughout the economic crisis a few lessons were learned that have found their way into interior decorating and are destined to be there for quite a while. Decorating is more personal and plays to individual interests and passions. Also that expensive isnt always best, people are looking to repurpose, recycle and reuse items in unique and creative ways. 13

Vivid and Bright Decorating

As if to shuck aside the years of financial depression, people are looking to add more color to their home and bright happy colors at that. Some people are going as far as to decorate the whole home with a bright palette and others are taking a bit more conservative approach by including smaller touches of color that pop with excitement.

The best thing about interior decorating trends for 2011 is that theyre very personalized and bring homeowner and home closer together. This is key as the home has become more central in individual and family lives.

14