Types of natural silk – learning how to choose fabric

Creating with 100% natural silk is clearly not a cheap pleasure. But the modern textile industry has learned to make not only artificial silk but also to blend natural silk with other fibers. And I think everyone has benefited from this, from manufacturers to us, the end consumers 😉 So, let's identify fabrics that contain real silk.

1. Chiffon.

The silk fibers in it are twisted with a tight crepe twist, which makes the surface uneven, almost sandy, and pleasant to the touch. But there is a lot of air between the fibers, so the fabric is light and flowing – it makes amazing, almost weightless dresses.

2. Satin.

Possesses an almost perfectly smooth surface. A mirror-like, polished-looking sheen is visible on the face. This fabric is perfect for special occasions, such as a wedding.

3. Silk velvet.

It was originally customary to place velvet pile specifically on silk fabric. About 200 years ago, only the highest nobility could possess such splendor.

4. Silk batiste.

A light yet durable material. It is made using a plain weave of silk threads. The most expensive variety of this fabric is distinguished by the fact that the fibers are twisted by hand, achieving perfectly even threads along the entire length.

5. Silk gauze.

A very delicate, transparent fabric, like a cloud – it can easily be passed through a lady's ring. Depending on the arrangement of the fibers, you can find a smooth (satin) weave, as well as a diagonal (twill) and a simple plain weave.

6. Solid-dyed silk.

Perhaps the most expensive silk in the history of textiles: the best silkworm cocoons are selected for it, which can be turned into a perfectly smooth and long thread of the highest quality.

7. Crepe.

A fabric with a very dense structure of fibers twisted into characteristic waves. It drapes perfectly and almost does not wrinkle – a godsend for those who require easy-care clothing.

8. Matelassé.

A noble, durable material with a well-recognizable jacquard texture. The volume of the pattern can be so noticeable that it may resemble quilted fabric, which hardly frays when cut and holds its shape perfectly.

9. Muslin.

Very similar to batiste, only one type of fiber weave is used – plain. The silk fibers are tightly twisted but are at a noticeable distance from each other, so the loose texture allows air to pass through well.

10. Brocade.

Combined with metallic threads and a complex pattern on a silk base, you get truly royal fabrics. Brocade is a smooth, durable, and fairly heavy material.

11. Taffeta.

Distinguished not only by a hard twist but also by a very dense weave of threads, so it is able to hold its shape well, despite the thinness of the fabric.

12. Shantung (Tussah).

I am sure many have heard very little about this fabric, if at all. It is made from tussah – a special subspecies of "wild" silk, whose dense fibers form threads of uneven thickness. Due to their weave, a fairly rough, textured surface is obtained. This is the cheapest variety of silk. But it is also faked, so be careful when choosing.

If you are offered silk at a very attractive price, but you are not sure of its authenticity, be sure to check it for "genuineness." The girls have already written about this in detail here: Tips - Artificial and natural silk: fabric specifics - Fabrics and materials - Forum ✂ KomoK