The General Classification and Basic Introduction of Fabrics

The General Classification and Basic Introduction of Fabrics

 

Natural Fibers: Natural fibers are divided into plant fibers and animal fibers, with the most common being cotton, linen, silk, and wool. Among these, plant fibers are more commonly used in luggage.

 

1. Plant fibers mainly include cotton and linen.

Cotton fiber generally refers to cotton, which is used to make various specifications of fabrics. Cotton fabrics are strong, durable, washable, and can withstand high-temperature ironing.

Linen fiber refers to fibers obtained from various types of linen fabrics. It is breathable, stiff, and firm, and its toughness and abrasion resistance are stronger than those of cotton. Due to these properties, linen, and cotton are commonly used in bag manufacturing. Common plant fiber fabrics used for luggage include canvas and cotton-linen blended fabrics.

Linen Fabric

Canvas: Made primarily from cotton and linen fibers, canvas is extremely durable, has a strong load-bearing capacity, and is wear-resistant. It is mainly used to make casual-style backpacks, handbags, suitcases, and more. Examples include everyday backpacks, tote bags, work-style messenger bags, and outdoor picnic bags. Many well-known brands, such as COACH, C6, and Kiiwi O!, have released several canvas bags.

Canvas Material

Plant Fiber Fabric Products - Canvas Business Bag

Cotton-linen blended fabric: Combining the softness and comfort of cotton with the firm texture of linen, it also has good moisture absorption. This fabric is commonly used to make small handbags, shoulder bags, and natural, minimalist-style bags.

Animal fibers: These primarily include silks and wool fabrics, which are mostly used for making clothing.

Animal Fiber Fabric - Silk

 

2. Synthetic Fibers: Synthetic fibers are divided into four categories: polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex.

Fabric Sample Card

Polyester has high strength and elasticity, is wrinkle-resistant, doesn’t easily deform, and has good heat and light resistance. Compared to natural fibers, it is more resistant to insect damage and mold. However, polyester has poor moisture absorption and can generate static electricity, which can cause discomfort when worn. Nonetheless, its good breathability, moisture-wicking, acid-alkali resistance, and UV resistance make it suitable for making bags. Most backpacks and everyday bags on the market are made of polyester, which meets the basic needs of consumers.

Polyester fabrics are typically classified by their denier, such as 75D, 150D, 300D, 600D, 1200D, and 1800D, generally multiples of 75. These fabrics tend to appear darker and rougher compared to nylon fabrics.

Polyester research began in the early 1920s in the UK. For instance, the JANSPORT brand, which is very popular on US campuses, uses 600D polyester fabric for its Big Student Backpack, which is lightweight and durable. Many bags from the 5.11 brand are also made from 600D polyester, combined with PU coating and DWR treatment.

Nylon (also known as polyamide) is a high-density synthetic fiber with excellent abrasion resistance, strong durability, moisture absorption, elasticity, and wrinkle resistance. It doesn’t fade easily. Nylon is widely used in various travel bags, sports backpacks, and outdoor bags, such as hiking, cycling, and tactical bags.

Famous nylon fabrics include PERTEX and CORDURA. Nylon fabrics are also classified by deniers, such as 70D, 210D, 420D, 840D, and 1680D, with the numbers typically being multiples of 70. Nylon fabrics generally have a brighter appearance and smoother texture compared to polyester.

600D Nylon

Synthetic Fiber Fabric - 600D Travel Bag and Backpack

1680D Flame Retardant Fabric

 

Acrylic, synthesized by DuPont in 1941, is known as "synthetic wool," but it is prone to pilling. Spandex, also synthesized by DuPont in 1958, is an elastic fiber commonly used in clothing, and spandex’s elasticity has also made it applicable to medical uses.

 

3. Man-made Fibers: Also known as chemical fibers, these include viscose fiber, acetate fiber, and cupro fiber, each with its unique properties but generally not used for making bags.

Leather:

Leather is divided into natural leather and synthetic leather. Natural leather is highly flexible and elastic, with certain abrasion resistance and water resistance. It adapts well to the shape of the bag but has higher maintenance costs. Synthetic leather, which resembles real leather in appearance and touch, is cheaper but can peel and crack after extended use. It is commonly used for high-end handbags, briefcases, etc.

PU Leather: This material has a similar appearance and feel to real leather, offering some abrasion resistance, water resistance, and wrinkle resistance. It is lighter in weight and easier to maintain. PU leather is widely used in various fashionable bags such as handbags, wallets, and backpacks.

PVC Leather: Known for its excellent waterproof performance and durability, PVC leather is tear-resistant, affordable, and easy to maintain and clean. It is often used for making waterproof bags such as rain bags, swim bags, and coolers, and can also be used for bag decorations and patches.

 

Applications of Leather

Leather Bags

Different Leather Textures

 

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