The textile industry has adopted fleece fabric because of its softness and warmth. It goes through a number of meticulous steps to get from raw fiber to processed texture. This blog focuses on the most important steps in the production of fleece cloth and examines the fascinating process of making it, and selling it at cheap streetwear clothing stores.
The selection of the raw materials
It is the first step in the journey. Polyester, which comes from petroleum, is the most common synthetic fiber used to make fleece. Additionally, polyester that has been recycled from plastic bottles is frequently used as an eco-friendly alternative.
Polymerization
The chemical reaction between ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid at high temperatures to form a polymer, is the process by which polyester fibers are produced. After that, this polymer is melted and extruded through spinnerets to make long fiber strands.
Drawing and Crimping The molecules of the extruded fibers are aligned by drawing them out, which improves their strength and flexibility. After that, the fibers are crimped to add bulk and texture, which is essential for the fleece’s insulation properties.
Fiber Spinning
Yarn is produced from the crimped fibers. The fibers are twisted together in this manner to form a single, continuous strand of yarn. A strong, long-lasting yarn for use in knitting can only be made through the spinning process.
Knitting Circular
knitting machines are used to knit the spun yarn into the fabric. The yarn loops are joined together by these machines to create a tubular fabric that is cut and laid flat. Knitting is preferred to weaving for the production of fleece because it produces a fabric that is stretchier and more flexible, streetwear clothing near me making it ideal for garments that require mobility and comfort.
Wire brushes are used to raise the fibers on the surface of the knitted fabric during the brushing process. Fleece’s characteristic soft and fluffy texture is the result of this step. By creating air pockets that hold heat, brushing not only increases the fabric’s softness but also its insulation properties.
Shearing
To ensure a uniform pile height after brushing, the fabric is sheared. Shearing entails slicing the raised fibers to the desired length to produce a surface that is uniform and smooth. The fleece’s aesthetic and functional qualities depend heavily on this step.
Dyeing
After that, the fabric is dyed to get the color you want. Depending on the effect you want and how the product is made, dyeing can be done before or after knitting. The fabric is submerged in dye baths during this stage, where it absorbs the color. After dyeing, the color is set by washing and drying to remove any excess dye.
Enhancing the fabric’s properties
Preparing it for garment production are the goals of the finishing stage, which includes the following steps:
Heat Setting The fabric is heated to set its dimensions and prevent it from shrinking when washed. The fabric is processed through heated rollers or an oven during this procedure.
Treatment for Anti-Pilling In order to stop small fiber balls from forming on the surface of the fabric, anti-pilling treatments are frequently applied to fleece. The garment’s lifespan is extended and its appearance is preserved by this treatment.
Water Repellency A water-repellent finish can be added to the fleece for some applications to make it more water-resistant and useful for sports and outdoor clothing.
Quality Control
Quality control measures are in place all through the production process to make sure the fabric meets industry standards. This includes examining the overall quality and consistency of color and texture. Before the fabric moves on to the next stage, any flaws are found and fixed.
Cutting and Sewing
After the fleece fabric is finished, it is cut and sewn into clothes or other items. Making a pattern, cutting the fabric into specific shapes, and sewing the pieces together are all part of this stage. These tasks are completed by skilled workers or automated machines to produce the final product, which may be a warm fleece jacket, blanket, or accessory.
In conclusion, the process of transforming raw synthetic fibers into a supple, warm, and adaptable fabric known as fleece cloth is intricate and complex. The fleece’s functionality and quality are ensured at every stage, from fiber production to the final touches. Understanding this journey not only demonstrates the complexity of the textile manufacturing process, but it also demonstrates the creativity and skill required to produce this beloved fabric.