MEET VELVET
FROM:
Silk, cotton, or synthetic fibers such as polyester.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
No.
IS IT DURABLE?
Yes.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
No.
IS IT WARM?
No.
HISTORY:
Velvet has a rich history that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to the ancient civilizations of Egypt, China, and India. The earliest evidence of its’ production dates back to around 2000 BCE in Egypt, where the fabric was made using silk fibers.
Velvet gained popularity during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance in Europe, becoming a symbol of luxury and wealth. It was highly prized by the aristocracy for its softness and other things that rich people love. The Italian city of Venice became a prominent center for velvet production, and textiles were traded along the Silk Road.
During the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, the invention of mechanized looms and the development of new manufacturing techniques made velvet way more accessible to a wider range of people. Velvet started to be made from a variety of fibers, including cotton and synthetic material.
The availability of synthetic velvets made the fabric more affordable and versatile in terms of color and texture options.
Today, velvet remains a popular fabric in the fashion industry, used for a variety of garments. It is appreciated for its luxurious feel, elegant appearance, and ability to add a touch of glamour to any setting. There is also a group of people that cannot stand the feel of velvet, so be careful who you invite if you have a velvet couch!
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
After the base fabric is woven, the pile is created by inserting additional loops of yarn, known as the supplementary warp, into the fabric. The supplementary warp is woven in a specific pattern, allowing the loops to stand upright and form the soft, raised surface characteristic of velvet. This step can be achieved using specialized looms or by additional processes such as jacquard weaving or warp knitting.
Once the pile is created, the fabric is cut into the desired length. The surface of the fabric is then sheared or trimmed to achieve a uniform pile height. This process removes any excess fibers, ensuring a smooth and even surface.
After shearing, the velvet fabric undergoes various finishing treatments to enhance its appearance and characteristics.
