What do riders wear during speedway matches? What does the shoe used by speedway riders look like? What elements protect the riders’ bodies? World vice-champion Bartosz Zmarzlik presented the complete speedway ‘armour’.
Thigh protectors, knee protectors, special shoe inserts, and finally a waistcoat to protect the back. Some speedway riders also use an element very similar to those used in Formula 1.
Speedway Race Suit composition:
Speedway racers dress in a one-piece race suit constructed of materials that can withstand fire. Many race suits are made from materials like Nomex, a flame-resistant synthetic fibre that is frequently used in motorsport, but the exact composition may differ across manufacturers. To meet safety requirements while maximising comfort and mobility, many material combinations and layerings can be used.
Speedway race suits frequently include eye-catching patterns with team colours and sponsor logos. The design can feature padding in strategic places for increased protection in addition to serving branding and identification functions.
Unlike traditional motorsports, speedway racing doesn’t involve a cockpit, while the drivers are still outside and may come into touch with other riders. To provide safety during collisions or slides, some speedway race suits feature cushioned parts or additional reinforcement in places like the elbows, shoulders, and knees.
Speedway motorcyclists shield their head and face from harm and flying debris by using full-face helmets with clear or tinted visors. These helmets are made for high-speed racing’s aerodynamics and vision.
The race suits and protective gear that speedway drivers wear are specifically created to reduce the possibility of injury while also allowing for the comfort and mobility required to compete at high speeds on the oval circuit. As technology and safety requirements in motorsport improve, it’s possible that the composition and design of these suits will change further.
Source: po-bandzie.com.pl
In tribute to my beloved grandfather.
9.9.1952 – 9.5.2023
Navigating Sensitive Skin: Choosing the Fabrics for Comfort. Sensitive skin can be a challenge to manage, often causing discomfort, irritation, and even allergic reactions. One area where sensitivity can significantly impact daily life is in the choice of clothing fabrics. Thankfully, a growing awareness of this issue has led to a variety of options tailored to those with sensitive skin. In this article, we will delve into insights from several reputable sources to understand the best and worst fabrics for sensitive skin and provide guidance on making informed choices.
Understanding Sensitive Skin
Before delving into fabric choices, it’s crucial to understand sensitive skin. Sensitive skin can manifest as redness, itching, dryness, or even allergic reactions upon contact with certain substances. These reactions are often exacerbated by clothing fabrics, making the selection of the right material essential for maintaining skin health and overall well-being.
The Best Fabrics for Sensitive Skin
According to experts at Bambooclothes.com, bamboo fabric is frequently touted as one of the best options for individuals with sensitive skin. This fabric is not only exceptionally soft but also possesses hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking properties. It allows the skin to breathe and minimizes the risk of irritation caused by trapped moisture.
Another article from Vinmec.com emphasizes the significance of natural fabrics like cotton and silk for sensitive skin. Cotton, a staple in clothing, is known for its breathability and gentle touch on the skin. It allows air circulation, reducing the likelihood of irritation. Silk, on the other hand, is incredibly smooth and less likely to cause friction against the skin.
The Worst Fabrics for Sensitive Skin
Certain fabrics, though stylish and durable, might spell trouble for navigating sensitive skin. Choosing the Fabrics for Comfort. As highlighted in a piece on Today.com, synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are less forgiving for those with sensitive skin. These materials often lack breathability and can trap moisture, leading to discomfort and potential skin issues.
WebMD further emphasizes the potential risks of synthetic fabrics, particularly for individuals with textile allergies. The chemicals used in manufacturing these fabrics can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It’s advisable to avoid fabrics with high chemical content, opting for organic and naturally derived options instead.
Making Informed Choices
When shopping for clothing, especially for those with sensitive skin, it’s essential to consider a few key factors. Firstly, prioritize natural fabrics such as cotton or silk. These materials are less likely to cause irritation and discomfort. Additionally, opt for garments with flat seams and tagless labels to minimize friction against the skin.
Careful washing is also vital. Using hypoallergenic detergents, avoiding fabric softeners, and thoroughly rinsing clothes can help remove potential irritants from the fabric.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fabrics for sensitive skin is a crucial aspect of managing skin health and overall comfort. While fabrics like bamboo, cotton, and silk stand out as top choices because they have hypoallergenic and breathable properties, approach synthetic fabrics with caution. By making informed choices and prioritizing skin-friendly materials, individuals with sensitive skin can enjoy clothing that not only looks good but feels good too. Remember, when in doubt, consulting with a dermatologist can provide personalized guidance to ensure your clothing choices align with your skin’s needs.
source: https://www.today.com/shop/best-fabrics-fibers-sensitive-skin-t242078
MEET GINGHAM
FROM:
Cotton or a cotton-blend.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
Yes.
IS IT DURABLE?
Yes.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
Yes.
IS IT WARM?
No.
HISTORY:
The history of gingham dates back several centuries, with its believed origin in Southeast Asia, particularly in the region of Malaysia and Indonesia. People traditionally crafted it from handwoven cotton and gave it a checkered pattern.
Gingham found fame in Europe during the 17th century when it arrived from India. People frequently used it for making aprons, dresses, and shirts. By the 18th century, gingham had become linked to the rural lifestyle in England and was a common choice of clothing for farmers and rural communities.
Today, gingham is recognized as a timeless pattern that is used in a wide range of applications, from clothing to tablecloths and interior design.
Personally I always think of the cute aesthetically pleasing picnic blankets!
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
Manufacturers typically use cotton or cotton-blend yarns to make gingham fabric. They can dye the yarns either before or after the weaving process to attain the desired colors. They wind the warp yarns, which run lengthwise in the fabric, onto a beam to form the warp beam. This process involves arranging the yarns in a specific order and tension to ensure uniformity and strength.
Workers thread the warp yarns through the loom, and they interlace the weft yarns, which run horizontally across the fabric, with the warp yarns to craft the checkered pattern. This weaving process can be executed on different types of looms, ranging from traditional handlooms to modern automated ones.
Finishing processes can also involve treating the fabric to make it softer, more wrinkle-resistant, or resistant to shrinkage. Inspectors check the finished gingham fabric for defects or inconsistencies, ensuring it meets specifications for color, pattern, strength, and overall quality.
After producing the gingham fabric, manufacturers can cut it into the desired pattern pieces and sew them together to create various garments or textile products
MEET JERSEY
FROM:
Cotton or a blend of cotton with other fibers like polyester or viscose.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
Depends on factors, but most of the time yes.
IS IT DURABLE?
Yes.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
Yes.
IS IT WARM?
Depends on the fibre blend.
HISTORY:
The history of jersey fabric dates back to the 19th century. The name “jersey” comes from the island of Jersey in the English Channel, where the fabric was first produced. Initially, people crafted jersey fabric from wool and primarily used it for fishermen’s clothing because it provided warmth and insulation even when wet.
In the early 20th century, advancements in textile technology allowed for the production of jersey fabric using cotton and synthetic fibers. This led to the popularity of jersey in the fashion industry, as it offered a comfortable and versatile fabric suitable for various garments, including T-shirts, dresses, and sportswear.
Jersey gained further prominence in the 1920s and 1930s with the rise of sportswear and the introduction of knitted jersey dresses by renowned fashion designer Coco Chanel. The fabric’s stretchiness and draping qualities made it suitable for creating form-fitting and elegant designs.
Since then, the fabric has remained a staple in the fashion industry due to its comfort, versatility, and ease of care. People commonly use it for a wide range of garments, from casual wear to athletic apparel, and still appreciate its softness, breathability, and ability to conform to the body’s shape.
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
The first step is to select the fibers that will be used to create the jersey fabric. Common fibers used for jersey include cotton, polyester, rayon, bamboo, and blends of these fibers. Workers spin the fibers into yarns using ring spinning or open-end spinning, depending on the fiber type and desired properties.
The yarns are then fed into knitting machines to create the fabric. Knitting machines use needles to interloop the yarns, forming a series of interlocking loops that create the fabric structure. After knitting, the fabric may go through processes such as dyeing and finishing to enhance its appearance and properties. Dyeing adds color, while finishing treatments can include softening, anti-pilling, or moisture-wicking processes.
Once the fabric is ready, it is typically cut into pattern pieces and then sewn together to create the desired garment or product. This step is typically done by garment manufacturers or individual sewers.
MEET FLEECE
FROM:
Polyester
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
No.
IS IT DURABLE?
Yes.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
No.
IS IT WARM?
Yes.
HISTORY:
The need for a lightweight, insulating, and moisture-wicking fabric for outdoor activities and cold-weather apparel drove the development of fleece. Initially, outdoor enthusiasts and athletes primarily used fleece in performance garments because of its excellent thermal properties and quick-drying capabilities.
The fabric gained widespread recognition and became a staple in outdoor apparel, including jackets, sweaters, and blankets. Fleece’s popularity also extended to other areas, such as casual wear and home textiles.
Over time, advancements in fleece manufacturing techniques and the introduction of recycled fleece made from post-consumer plastic bottles have contributed to its evolving sustainability profile.
Today, fleece continues to be a popular choice for a wide range of applications, offering warmth, softness, and moisture management. Its versatility and performance characteristics have made it a go-to fabric for outdoor adventures and cozy everyday wear.
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
Fleece is typically made from polyester, which is derived from petroleum. The first step is to produce the polyester polymer. This involves the polymerization of purified terephthalic acid (PTA) or dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) with ethylene glycol (EG) in the presence of a catalyst.
Once they obtain the polyester polymer, they melt it and extrude it through fine holes to create long filaments. They then cool and solidify these filaments, resulting in continuous polyester fibers.
The polyester fibers may undergo additional treatments to enhance their properties. This can include processes such as texturing, where the fibers are mechanically or chemically treated to give them a crimped or textured appearance. Workers spin the polyester fibers into yarn, which can be achieved through either ring spinning or the air jet spinning method, resulting in a bulkier yarn with more loft.
The yarn is then used to knit or weave the fleece fabric. Knitting is the most common method for fleece production, creating a fabric with a looped or brushed surface. The loops trap air, providing insulation and a soft texture. The fabric may also undergo additional processes such as shearing or brushing to enhance its softness and appearance.
MEET FLANNEL
FROM:
Wool, cotton, or a blend of these fibers.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
Depends on the blend.
IS IT DURABLE?
Yes.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
Yes.
IS IT WARM?
Yes.
HISTORY:
The origins of flannel trace back to the 17th century in Wales and Scotland. People initially crafted the fabric from either wool or worsted yarn, and it was known for its warmth and durability. During the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, flannel production expanded as textile mills emerged. The introduction of power looms and mechanized processes increased production efficiency.
In the 19th century, flannel shirts gained popularity, particularly among workers and outdoorsmen due to their warmth and comfort. Flannel shirts became associated with practicality and functionality. In the 20th century, flannel saw shifts in its perception and usage.
It became associated with various subcultures, such as the grunge movement in the 1990s. Flannel shirts became a fashion statement, embraced by musicians and youth culture.
Today, it is widely available and used for various clothing items, including shirts, pajamas, dresses, and blankets. It is produced using different fibers, such as cotton, wool, and synthetic blends, offering a range of textures, weights, and patterns.
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
The selected fibers are carded, a process where the fibers are cleaned, straightened, and aligned. This helps to create a more uniform and even texture. After carding, workers spin the fibers into yarn, which can be achieved using spinning machines or traditional spinning techniques, depending on the scale of production and desired quality.
Workers weave the spun yarn on looms to create the characteristic fabric. The weaving process interlaces the vertical (warp) and horizontal (weft) yarns to form a tight, warm, and fuzzy fabric.
Flannel fabric is often napped to enhance its softness and warmth. Napping involves brushing the fabric surface to raise tiny fiber ends, creating a fuzzy texture. This process can be done using mechanical brushes or specialized machines. After weaving and napping, the fabric undergoes finishing processes. These may include washing, dyeing, or printing to add color and patterns to the fabric. Some finishing treatments may involve the use of chemicals or dyes, which can impact the sustainability of the final product.
Inspectors check the finished flannel fabric for quality, addressing any defects or imperfections. Afterward, workers cut the fabric into suitable shapes and sizes for further garment or product manufacturing.
They sew the cut flannel fabric pieces together to create flannel garments or other textile products, such as blankets or bedding.
MEET LACE
FROM:
The main materials: Natural Fibers: Cotton, linen, and silk or Synthetic Fibers: Nylon and polyester.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
Depending on what its made out of.
IS IT DURABLE?
Depending on what its made out of.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
Yes.
IS IT WARM?
No.
HISTORY:
Although we consider its exact origins a mystery, we can trace early forms of lace-like embellishments back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. However, true form as we know it today emerged during the late 15th and early 16th centuries.
Production prospered during the Renaissance era in Europe, especially in Italy, Belgium, and France. It was initially made by hand using techniques like needle lace and bobbin lace. Mostly used by the upper classes as a status symbol, garments, accessories, and home decor.
It stole the show during the Baroque and Rococo eras! Imagine intricate collars, cuffs, and ruffles, making everyone go gaga for glamour. Special lace-making centers sprung up in Venice, Brussels, and Alençon, where skilled artisans wove magic into exquisite designs.
Enter the 19th century and voilà, the Industrial Revolution! Its’ roduction got a makeover with machines doing their thing, thanks to the bobbin net machine in Nottingham, England. Suddenly, it became more accessible to the middle class. But do not worry, handmade lace still held a special place for its craftsmanship and top-notch quality.
Jumping ahead to the 20th century, lace roared back with a vengeance! Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements embraced motifs in fashion and design.
And guess what? The story isn’t over yet! In modern times, it still dazzles the bridal world, lingerie, and fancy formal attire. A true blend of tradition and modern tech, lace now comes in countless styles and designs, leaving everyone spoilt for choice.
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
The lace production process begins with the design and creation of a pattern. Designers either create the pattern digitally using computer-aided design (CAD) software or draw it by hand. The pattern serves as a guide for the production.
The choice of materials for its’ production depends on the desired look and feel. Common materials include natural fibers like cotton, linen, and silk, as well as synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester. Manufacturers prepare the threads or yarns for lace production by winding them onto bobbins or spools. This step ensures that the threads are organized and ready for the lace-making process.
- Handmade Production:
- Needle Lace: In needle technique, artisans stitch individual threads together using a needle to create the pattern by hand. They follow the design and make intricate stitches to form the desired shape and texture.
- Bobbin Lace: Bobbin involves the use of multiple bobbins, each wound with a thread. The pattern is created by crossing and twisting the threads around pins on a special lace-making pillow or cushion. The artisan uses specific movements to create the desired pattern.
- Machine-made Production:
- Jacquard Looms: Jacquard looms are used for machine-made production. The pattern is programmed into the loom, and the machine weaves the threads together to replicate the desired design. These looms can create intricate patterns quickly and on a larger scale.
- Warp Knitting: Some types of lace, such as Raschel, are produced using warp knitting machines. These machines create the pattern by interlacing the warp threads with a set of guide bars that control the movement of the needles.
After production, manufacturers subject lace to a finishing process, potentially involving washing, steaming, or heat-setting to enhance its appearance, stability, and softness. Finishing may also involve trimming any excess threads or applying additional decorative elements.
MEET CORDUROY
FROM:
Typically made from cotton.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
Can be.
IS IT DURABLE?
Yes.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
No, because its dense and textured nature.
IS IT WARM?
Depending on the blend.
HISTORY:
The history of corduroy dates back several centuries. The fabric’s origin can be traced to ancient Egypt, where a similar ribbed textile called “fustian” was produced. Fustian was made from a combination of cotton or linen fibers and was known for its durability and versatility.
Corduroy as we know it today began to emerge in Europe during the 18th century. It gained popularity in England, particularly in Manchester, as a sturdy and hard-wearing fabric for workwear and trousers. The term “corduroy” is believed to have derived from the French words “corde du roi,” which translates to “cloth of the king.”
Industrial Revolution
During the Industrial Revolution, corduroy became more accessible as advancements in textile machinery allowed for its mass production. Its durability and comfortable texture made it a practical choice for clothing worn by laborers, farmers, and workers.
In the 20th century, it began to be embraced as a fashion fabric. It was associated with counterculture movements and became a popular choice among artists, intellectuals, and musicians. Corduroy garments, such as jackets, pants, and skirts, became fashionable and were adopted as a symbol of individuality and non-conformity.
Today, people still appreciate corduroy for its distinctive texture and durability. They use it for a wide range of clothing and home furnishings, and it comes in various styles and colors to suit different fashion preferences.
The history of the fabric showcases its evolution from a practical workwear fabric to a versatile and fashionable textile that remains popular to this day.
The timeless tale of corduroy. Picture ancient Egypt, where a similar ribbed wonder called “fustian” was weaved from cotton and linen, known for its strength and adaptability.
Today
Now, fast forward to the 18th century in England. Corduroy started making waves in Manchester, strutting its stuff as a tough and rugged choice for workwear and trousers. The name “corduroy” itself sounds quite majestic.
During the Industrial Revolution corduroy decided to go mainstream! With new textile machinery, it became a wardrobe staple for the working class – durable and super comfy.
But there’s more! The 20th century brought a style revolution, and corduroy hitched a ride on the wild side. Artists, rebels, and free spirits couldn’t resist its charms, making it a symbol of individuality and non-conformity.
Fast forward to today. Admired for its unique texture and tough nature, it’s still the go-to choice for clothing and home furnishings. With an array of styles and colors to choose from, corduroy has something for everyone’s fashion flair.
So there you have it, the delightful tale of corduroy – from practical workwear to a symbol of self-expression and timeless style. The fabric that never goes out of fashion!
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
In the initial step, workers prepare the yarn, typically using cotton. They clean, card, and spin the cotton fibers into yarn to ensure it possesses uniformity and strength. Subsequently, they weave corduroy on a specialized loom known as a “corduroy loom” or a “velvet loom.” The loom creates the characteristic raised ridges, known as wales, that are a defining feature of corduroy. The length and thickness of the wales can vary depending on the desired design and quality of the fabric.
After the fabric is woven, the loops on the surface of the fabric are cut to create the pile or “nap” of the fabric. The cutting can be done by mechanical or automated machines that shear the loops at a consistent length. The cutting process determines the depth and appearance of the wales.
Once the pile is cut, the fabric goes through various finishing processes. These processes can include brushing or sanding the surface of the fabric to enhance the texture, removing any loose fibers, and applying any desired treatments, such as dyeing or printing.
After finishing, inspectors carefully examine the corduroy fabric for any defects. They implement quality control measures to guarantee that the fabric conforms to the desired standards in terms of appearance, strength, and durability.
Manufacturers then utilize the finished corduroy fabric to craft a wide range of garments and products, including jackets, pants, skirts, and home furnishings.
MEET TULLE
FROM:
Various fibers, most common ones being silk, cotton, nylon, or polyester.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
No.
IS IT DURABLE?
No.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
Yes.
IS IT WARM?
No.
HISTORY:
Tulle has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. It was named after the French city of Tulle, which was known for its lace and silk production. The fabric was developed as a variation of silk bobbinet, a fine fabric used in clothing and accessories.
The invention of tulle is credited to a Frenchman named Charles Staub, who introduced a machine way of producing netting in the 1700s. This innovation transformed the production of lightweight and transparent fabrics.
Tulle gained popularity in the 19th century and became particularly fashionable during the Romantic era. It was used extensively in women’s clothing, bridal veils, evening gowns even ballerina tutus. The appearance of tulle made it a favorite choice for creating soft, voluminous, and romantic silhouettes.
In the early 20th century, it continued to be an essential fabric in the world of fashion, especially in wedding trends. It became synonymous with bridal veils, adding a touch of elegance and romance to bridal looks.
Over time, the production of it expanded beyond silk to include synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester. These synthetic materials made tulle more accessible and affordable, allowing it to be used in a wider range of applications and designs.
Today, tulle remains a popular fabric in fashion, costume design, and crafting. Its lightweight nature, and ability to create volume and texture make it a go-to choice for creating whimsical and feminine looks.
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
The first step is to select the appropriate fiber for production. Tulle can be made from various fibers, including nylon, polyester, silk, or cotton. The chosen fiber will determine the characteristics of the final fabric. The selected fibers are processed and prepared for weaving. This may involve spinning the fibers into yarns or filaments, and treating them to enhance their strength, texture, or other desired properties.
Warping becomes the next crucial step, as the yarns are wound onto a warp beam with utmost precision, forming a continuous array of parallel threads. This serves as the backbone of the tulle fabric. Weaving machines, the artisans of this artful process, skillfully interlace the weft yarns with the warp threads, bringing the tulle to life.
For those seeking intricate designs, a jacquard attachment steps in, empowering the fabric with breathtaking patterns by controlling individual warp threads. After the intricate weaving process, the fabric enters a phase of finishing treatments, where it is carefully washed, dried, and treated with utmost care to refine its properties, such as softness, stiffness, and drape.
With an eagle eye, each tulle masterpiece undergoes a thorough inspection to ensure it meets the most stringent quality standards. Only the finest creations pass this rigorous examination. Finally, the fabric is cut with precision into desired lengths or shapes, and with reverence, it is carefully packaged for distribution or further crafting.
Tulle emerges as a symbol of elegance, grace, and sophistication.
MEET CHIFFON
FROM:
Typically made from silk, polyester, or a blend of these fibers. Traditionally, chiffon was made exclusively from silk, which gave it a luxurious and delicate quality.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
Can be if made from silk.
IS IT DURABLE?
No.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
Yes.
IS IT WARM?
No.
HISTORY:
This lightweight and sheer fabric has a long history dating back several centuries. Chiffon’s precise origin is unknown but it is speculated to have originated in France in the 18th century.
The word “chiffon” comes from the French for “rag” or “cloth” and it was once composed entirely of silk.
Chiffon’s appeal grew as it became more widely accessible to consumers in the early 20th century. Chiffon production changed from being entirely handcrafted to being machine-based as textile manufacturing technology advanced. This increased effectiveness and made chiffon more cost-effective.
Silk was once more expensive, but polyester chiffon has since replaced it with similar lightweight and sheer qualities.
Chiffon is used in a variety of modern fashion items, such as dresses, blouses, scarves. It is prized for its exquisite and romantic look, flowing drape, and delicate feel.
Chiffon’s growth from a pricey material used only by the rich to a versatile material loved by a larger audience can be seen throughout its history. Chiffon is a popular option in the world of fashion and design due to its charm and popularity.
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
For silk chiffon, the first step is the cultivation and harvesting of silk cocoons. To read more about silk production – read here SILK.
The yarns are woven or knitted on specialized machines to create the fabric. Weaving involves the interlacing of horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp) yarns, while knitting involves interconnecting loops of yarn. After the fabric is woven or knitted, it undergoes various finishing processes to enhance its appearance and properties. This may be washing, dyeing, printing, or applying special finishes for texture or sheen.
For silk chiffon, an additional process called sheerification is performed. This involves treating the fabric with chemicals or heat to dissolve the outer layer of silk fibers, resulting in a more transparent and lightweight fabric. Once the chiffon fabric is ready, it is cut into desired patterns and pieces for garment construction. The fabric edges are often finished with techniques like hemming or serging to prevent fraying.
The cut fabric pieces are then sewn together to create the final garment or product. This involves stitching, seaming, and adding any necessary closures or embellishments.