Final answer:
Fibers are the fundamental components of textiles, with natural fibers like cotton, linen, wool, and silk being derived from plants and animals. Manufactured fibers are engineered materials. Textiles are formed through spinning fibers into yarn and then creating fabrics via weaving, knitting, or bonding.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fibers are the smallest visible unit of a product and come in various forms. Natural fibers originate from plant, animal, or mineral sources. Cotton, for example, comes from the cotton plant and has been a staple for clothing and weaving since 4500 BCE. Linen is derived from flax plant fibers and is prized for its coolness and absorbency in hot climates. Wool is sourced from shearing animals like sheep, llamas, or yaks and is notable for retaining warmth even when wet. Silk, known for its luxuriousness, comes from the cocoons spun by silkworms, while ramie is another plant-based fiber.
Manufactured fibers, such as polyesters and nylon, are engineered for specific qualities like softness or water repellency. To create textiles, fibers are first spun into yarns, which are then woven, knit, or bonded to form fabrics. A blend refers to a fabric made from two or more different types of fibers or yarns.
The three basic methods by which most fabrics are made include weaving, knitting, and bonding. Woven fabrics are created by interlacing yarns at right angles, while knit fabrics are produced by interlocking loops of yarn. Bonded fabrics have a distinctive quality of fusing fibers together to create a unique texture. The process of dyeing involves adding color to fibers, yarn, or fabrics, and finishes are applied to fabric to enhance its properties or appearance.
Lastly, a care label should be present on all clothing items to instruct proper maintenance and washing procedures.