Silk Fabric
TIANCHEN: Wholesale Silk Fabric Manufacturer
Complete Process System
Tianchen Textile was founded in 2018 by Mr. Wang Yuan (RICHARD). As early as 2008, Mr. Wang Yuan was engaged in the development and sales of silk, silk scarves, silk ties, silk bow ties, etc. The company has a one-stop service for gray cloth, dyeing, printing, and finished product production. We are a company specializing in the production and development of silk.
Wide Products
The company has been engaged in the design, development, and production of silk products since its establishment. The main products include various plain crepe satins, electric spinning, silk chiffon, silk Georgette, and other silk fabrics, as well as derived silk products. The annual sales of silk fabrics exceed 100,000 meters, and more than 50,000 neckties and scarves of various colors.
Experienced Company
We have developed a variety of special silk fabrics, scarves, and ties with Ms. Jocelyne, a senior designer from Magenta Design Company in Canada. We have established good cooperative relations with companies such as MPS in the Netherlands and Richard Behr & Co. Gmbh in Germany. Our company is looking forward to winning the trust of more customers and looking forward to working with you in the silk field.
Professional Service
We are committed to providing customers with good services. Before sales: we will provide customers with consultation, and quotation, as well as provide some data on the country's market for customers' reference. After-sales: we will provide good after-sales service based on the feedback provided by the customers, and conscientiously solve various problems encountered by the customers.
What Is a Silk Fabric?
The strongest natural protein fibre composed mainly of Fibroin, silk is a shimmering textile known for its satin texture and famous for being a luxurious fabric. The most common silk is produced from silkworms, small creatures which mostly live on mulberry leaves. The protecting cocoon created around themself is harvested and used for silk production.
The global average of silk production accounts for 80,000 tons per year, of which approximately 70% is produced in China.
What Are the Properties of Silk Fabrics?
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Fabric name |
Silk |
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Fabric composition |
Fibers created by the silkworm insect |
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Fabric possible thread count variations |
Up to 600 (momme count is more important) |
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Fabric breathability |
Highly breathable |
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Moisture-wicking abilities |
High |
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Heat retention abilities |
Low |
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Stretchability (give) |
Low |
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Prone to pilling/bubbling |
Low |
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Country where fabric was first produced |
China |
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Biggest exporting/producing country today |
China |
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Recommended washing temperatures |
Cool or warm |
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Commonly used in |
Nightgowns, lingerie, robes, eveningwear, blouses, suits, sport coats, curtains, pillow ruffles, parachutes, bicycle tires, medical dressings |
What Are the Common Types of Silk Fabrics?
Silk can be made from a variety of different silkworm, and all carry different qualities and features that make them the perfect fit for specific garments. Here is a guide to the most common, sought after types of silk fabrics:
Mulberry Silk
Mulberry silk is the most common and widely used type of silk. It is produced by silkworms fed exclusively on mulberry leaves, resulting in smooth and fine threads. Mulberry silk is known for its exceptional quality, softness, and natural sheen.
Tussar Silk
Tussar silk, also known as wild silk, is derived from silkworms that feed on a variety of trees. This type of silk has a unique texture and a slightly rougher feel compared to mulberry silk. Tussar silk is cherished for its natural and rustic appeal.
Charmeuse
Woven with a satin weave, Charmeuse is a soft lightweight fabric with a nice drape to it. Often confused with satin, Charmeuse also has a lustrous shine on one side and a dull matte finish on the other. The difference between the two, is that Charmeuse is a shinier fabric.
The qualities of Charmeuse makes it the perfect silk for producing delicate dresses, scarves, lingerie and blouses.
Chiffon
A sheer, elegant fabric with a slightly rough gauze-like texture and a beautiful drape. Made from fine twisted fibres, Chiffon silk is a very lightweight fabric with a slight stretch to it.
The perfect fabric for layering and creating volume. Commonly used for special occasion and wedding dresses in which a chiffon overlay creates a stunning flowy appearance. Also used for scarves, blouses and shirts.
Dupion Silk
A plain-weave, tightly woven double-thread silk with a crisp, textured appearance. Woven with different sized weft and warp threads produces a strong, durable fabric with a lustrous shine. Notice the occasional black speck which may run through the weave, this is part of the original cocoon of the silk worm.
A silk with plenty of charm and character, an iridescent look may be achieved by weaving two different coloured threads – known as shot silk. Dupion lends itself perfectly to elegant dresses, jackets, evening wear and bridal wear.
Georgette
Made with highly twisted yarns, Georgette is a sheer, lightweight , plain-weave fabric with a coarse texture. Not to be mistaken with Chiffon, Georgette is a heavier fabric though carries the same characteristics in terms of not creasing and holding a beautiful drape.
Dresses, blouses, evening gowns and scarves are a popular choice for putting Georgette silk to use.
Silk is primarily used in garments and household items, but it is also employed in unexpected ways, such as in bicycle tires and in medicine. Silk is great for summer clothing because of it's absorbent nature and how it wicks moisture, and it is also a staple for winter wear since it has low conductive properties. Here are some examples of the material's many uses.
Bridal and Formal Wear
Silk is a staple of many gowns and dresses thanks to its beautiful drape, and the long floats of yarn on one side create a dressy and lustrous appearance.
Ties and Scarves
The material's strength and nuances with color make it ideal for accessories. Many high-end ties are made from heavy silk, which allows for tightly woven patterns, rich colors, and durable material. Silk is also a great material for scarves for both decoration and for warmth.
Bedding
Silk sheets are the height of luxury and the material's softness and absorbent nature makes it truly shine in the bedroom.
Parachutes
Silk was originally used for parachutes for its strength and elastic properties; however nylon is more commonly used today.
Upholstery
Silk is used to cover furniture and pillows, and thanks to its strength and durability, it provides a long-lasting covering.
Wall Hangings
Decorative wall hangings are often woven from silk, as the material is beautiful and dynamically reacts with colors and dyes.
Bicycle Tires
The material is sometimes used in the tire's casing because of its lightness, durability, and flexibility. Since silk can be expensive, the casings can also be made from nylon and cotton.
Surgical Sutures
Since silk is a natural material, it has amazing uses in medicine. The material does not cause an autoimmune response and cannot be absorbed by the human body.
What are the Advantages of Silk Fabrics?
Luxurious Texture
Silk fabric has a soft, smooth texture that feels wonderful against the skin. It is often described as the epitome of comfort and elegance.
Natural Sheen
Silk has a natural luster that gives it a radiant appearance. This sheen contributes to its aesthetic appeal.
Breathability
Silk is a breathable fabric that helps regulate body temperature. It keeps you cool when it's hot and retains heat when it's cold.
Hypoallergenic
Silk is hypoallergenic and gentle to the skin. It is less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions compared to synthetic fabrics.
Durable
Despite its delicate appearance, silk is a strong and durable fabric that can withstand regular use if properly cared for.
How Are Silk Fabrics Made?
Fibroin is a protein fibre produced by larvae during their cocoon stage and consists of a continuous filament produced from the silkworms salivary glands. The silk production can be summarised into the following 6 steps.
A female silk moth lays around 300-500 eggs per month. The eggs hatch into larvae which feed from the burberry leaves. During their growing process, the hatched larvae molt 4 times.
When climbing onto a twig, they extrude some of the fibroin protein and create a net to hold themselves to the twig.
The netted larva swings itself while excreting the saliva that forms the silk. The silk solidifies and becomes a solid cocoon. In 2-3 days, the larva spins about 1 mile worth of silk filament around itself.
The next step is known as the degumming process: The silkworm larvae is boiled to remove the sericin and free the filament. At this stage, the poor larva dies.
The start of the filament becomes visible by gently brushing the boiled cocoon and is then wound onto a reel. One cocoon will produce around 1,000 yards of silk filament.
The single silk filaments are combined to form a strong silk thread which will be woven to produce fabrics.
Proper storage is of utmost importance when it comes to preserving the quality and longevity of your silk garments and textiles.
- 1)To prevent creasing, moth damage, and discoloration, storing your silk items correctly is essential. Start by ensuring that they are clean before storing them, as any stains or dirt left on the fabric can set over time and become more difficult to remove later.
- 2)When folding your silk garments, consider using acid-free tissue paper to place between the folds. This will help prevent creasing and minimize the risk of fabric damage. Acid-free tissue paper acts as a protective barrier, allowing the fabric to retain its shape and preventing any unsightly creases from forming.
- 3)In addition to using tissue paper, investing in breathable garment bags for storing your silk items is recommended. These bags should be made from natural fibers like cotton or linen, which allow air circulation and prevent the fabric from becoming musty. Avoid using plastic or vinyl covers, as they can trap moisture and lead to mold or mildew growth. Silk needs to breathe, so opting for breathable storage solutions is essential.
- 4)Choose a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area when selecting a storage location. Avoid areas prone to high humidity, direct sunlight, or extreme temperature changes, as these can damage the fabric and cause discoloration. It's also a good idea to periodically rotate your silk collection, alternating the use of your garments. This helps prevent excessive wear on specific pieces and allows them to maintain their condition for longer periods.
Silk fabric is a delicate, luxurious material that is loved by many. It's soft, light, and flowy, perfect for almost anything. But it's also delicate and sensitive, so you must be careful when caring for your silk items. Here are some tips for keeping your silks looking brand new:
Don't Wash Silk in the Washing Machine
Even though there is a delicate cycle in the washer, it's best to handwash silk with cold water and uses a gentle detergent to avoid causing damage to the textile.
Hang Dry Silk Away from Direct Sunlight
Dry your silk items flat or hang them up to dry in a cool place instead of using an automatic dryer because they can cause shrinkage and damage to the fibers.
Don't Use Bleach
Using cleaning agents with harsh chemicals can cause discolouration or fade over time.
Avoid Washing Your Silk Garments Too Often
If possible, try to limit the number of times you wash your garment per year because this can cause damage to dyes and fibers alike over time.
How to Choose Best Silk Fabrics for Sewing?
Evaluating the Quality of Silk
One of the first things to look for when selecting silk fabric is it's quality. High-quality silk should have a smooth texture, even weave, and minimal flaws or blemishes. Take the time to carefully inspect the fabric for any snags, holes, or discoloration before making a purchase.
It's also important to consider the silk's weight and thickness. The weight of silk is measured in momme (mm) – the higher the momme weight, the thicker and more durable the fabric. For lightweight garments, such as airy summer dresses or delicate blouses, choose silk with a lower momme weight. On the other hand, heavier items like coats or structured skirts may require a higher momme weight for added durability and structure.
Considering the Weight and Drape of Silk
When it comes to the weight and drape of silk, these factors play a significant role in the overall look and feel of your finished garment. The weight of the silk refers to how thin or thick the fabric is, while the drape refers to how it falls and moves when worn or hung.
For flowing, loose-fitting garments that require a delicate and ethereal touch, lightweight silk fabrics like chiffon or charmeuse are ideal choices. Their lightweight nature allows for graceful movement and a soft, romantic drape. On the other hand, if you’re working on structured garments that require more body and shape, medium-weight silk such as dupioni or taffeta would be more suitable. These fabrics provide a stiffer drape that adds structure and definition to your designs.
Understanding Silk Care and Maintenance
Before you finalize your decision on silk fabric for your sewing project, it is essential to understand the care and maintenance required to keep your silk items looking their best for years to come.
Silk is a delicate fabric that typically requires special handling. To prolong the life of your silk garments, it is recommended to either handwash them or have them professionally dry cleaned. Harsh detergents can damage the fabric, so it's best to opt for gentle cleansers specifically designed for silk.
It's important to keep them in breathable bags to prevent any moisture buildup or damage. Avoid storing them in plastic bags, as this can cause the fabric to become discolored or develop a musty odor.
How to Determine if Silk is Genuine？
Do a Touch Test
This is a quick spot test that one can do especially before buying anything made from silk. The idea is to rub the silk with your hands. If you feel warmth on rubbing it, it's real. With artificial or synthetic silk, it is impossible to experience warmth on rubbing.
Perform a Wedding Ring Test
If the silk that you are planning to buy is not very heavy, this test is perfect! Genuine silk of lower ply can be easily threaded and pulled through a wedding ring because silk is naturally flexible and smooth. On the other hand, artificial silks would scrunch up and would be impossible to pull through.
Consider the Price
Of course, genuine silk is always significantly costlier than the synthetic ones. Sometimes the synthetic silk is priced much higher and looks like silk to an untrained eye but mostly low price is a very good indication of its being fake.
Examine the Lustre of the Material
Silk is especially known for its lustre. The lustre is usually because of the combination of threads which gives a particular sheen to the material. The colour on the surface appears to change as the angle of the light changes. Artificial silks, however, gives a white sheen no matter what the angle of light falling on it.
Look at the Weave
Hand woven silk boasts of uniqueness. There are minor variations in the evenness of the texture which is quite noticeable. Machine woven silks look perfect.
Burn Test
This is perhaps the best and most definitive test to find genuine silk. You can take a few threads from the material and burn it with a flame. Genuine silk burns with smell of burnt hair. When you burn the edge of real silk fabric, the flame is invisible and it will stop burning as soon as the flame is removed. The ash produced hence, is black, crispy and brittle. It turns to powder when twisted in fingers. With the artificial silk, it is quite the opposite. When synthetic silk is burnt, there is a flame and smell of plastic. No ash is produced. Needless to say, you might need to exercise caution with this step, due to its inherently dangerous nature.
Chemical Test
If you really need to know, consider a Chemical Test. Real silk dissolves in bleach, while fake silk does not.
Our Factory
Frequently Asked Questions About Silk Fabric
As one of the most professional silk fabric manufacturers and suppliers in China, we're featured by quality products and good service. Please rest assured to buy customized silk fabric made in China here from our factory.
Printed Silk Scarf, Floral Silk George Fabric, 8mm Floral Silk Chiffon Fabric