Yarn can be defined as a continuous strand of twisted threads of natural or synthetic material, such as wool or nylon, used in weaving or knitting. Yarn is used to make textiles using a variety of processes, including weaving, knitting, and felting. Yarn consists of several strands of material twisted together. A fairly high degree of twist produces strong yarn; a low twist produces softer, more lustrous yarn; and a very tight twist produces crepe yarn.
Wool is the fiber derived from the fur of animals, principally sheep, but the hair of goats, alpacas, llamas and rabbits may also be called wool. Wool's scaling and crimp make it easier to spin and felt the fleece. They help the individual fibers attach to each other so that they stay together. Because of the crimp, wool fabrics have a greater bulk than other textiles and retain air, which causes the product to retain heat. In addition to clothing, wool has been used for carpeting, felt, wool insulation and upholstery. Wool felt covers piano hammers and it is used to absorb odors and noise in heavy machinery and stereo speakers.
Jute is a long, soft, shiny vegetable fiber that can be spun into coarse, strong threads. Jute is one of the cheapest natural fibers, and is second only to cotton in amount produced and variety of uses. It is used for twine, rope, carpet and linoleum backing, and insulation. The discarded lower ends, called jute butts, are used for paper manufacture. Jute fiber is 100% biodegradable and recyclable and thus environment friendly.
Flax fiber is extracted from the bast or skin of the stem of flax plant. Flax fiber is soft, lustrous and flexible. It is stronger than cotton fiber but less elastic. The best grades are used for linen fabrics such as damasks, lace and sheeting. Coarser grades are used for the manufacturing of twine and rope. Flax fiber is also a raw material for the high-quality paper industry for the use of printed banknotes and rolling paper for cigarettes.
Hemp is the tough, coarse fiber of the cannabis plant, used to make cordage. Hemp fiber, which for many years was the major raw material used in the manufacture of rope, now is used mostly in the production of small twines, linen like fabrics and canvases, and, to some extent, in making special types of paper.
manila fibers are exceptionally strong and durable. The coarser ones are used for binder twine, matting, and rope, particularly used as ships' rigging and other marine cables. Because of their resistance to the action of saltwater. Manila fibers are also used for the manufacture of stencil papers, tea bags and sausage skins.
