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Once the thread is constructed, the thread may be finished in several different ways to enhance its suitability for various end uses. The thread finishes used at A&E and the relationship between construction, fiber type, and finishing are listed below.


Soft:

Refers to thread that receives no further processing to change its general physical characteristics. It is dyed to the proper shade and degree of colorfastness, wound on the proper size package, and lubricated for sewability.
Gassed:

Refers to a finish where cotton thread is passed through a flame at high speed to reduce its fuzz and have a greater sheen. Gassing is done in a wrap form prior to mercerizing and dyeing.
Mercerized:

Refers to a finish where cotton thread is treated in a caustic solution under controlled tension. This process causes the fibers to swell, resulting in greater affinity for dye penetration. Mercerization increases the luster of cotton threads and at the same time increases their strength.
Glaced:

Refers to a finish in which 100% cotton and some cotton wrapped core threads are treated with starches, waxes, and special chemicals under controlled heat and then brushed or polished to a high luster. The result is a glossy, hard finish that protects the thread from abrasion and enhances ply security during the sewing of hard to penetrate fabrics.

Bonded:


Refers to a finish where multifilament polyester or nylon is treated with a special resin that encapsulates the filaments forming a tough, smooth protective coating on the surface of the thread. This bonding process adds significantly to the thread's ability to resist abrasion and greatly enhances ply security during sewing.

Relationship Between Thread Construction, Fiber Type, and Thread Finish
Thread Construction Fiber Type Thread Finish

Core

Cotton wrapped polyester

Soft

Polyester wrapped polyester

Soft

Spun

Cotton

Soft, Mercerized, or Glaced

Polyester

Soft

Air Entangled

Polyester

Soft

Textured

Polyester

Soft

Twisted Multifilament

Nylon

Soft

Polyester

Soft or Bonded

Monocord

Nylon

Bonded

Monofilament

Nylon

Soft


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Related Topics
Fiber Science
Thread Construction
Thread Dyeing
Thread Science
 
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AAFA: American Apparel and Footwear Association
www.apparelandfootwear.org
AATCC: American Association of Textile Chemist and Colorists. www.aatcc.org
North Carolina Center for Applied Textile Technology:
  Part of the NC Community College System, NCCATT provides instruction in textile technology and related fields.
www.nccatt.org/home.asp