Textile Fibers

Types, Properties, and Sustainable

Learn about textile fibers, from natural to synthetic types, their properties, production, and sustainable innovations shaping the future of fabrics.

Textiles are an integral part of our daily lives — from the clothes we wear to the furnishings in our homes. At the core of every textile is a fiber, the basic building block that defines its look, feel, performance, and sustainability.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of textile fibers, their propertiesproduction processes, and the innovations shaping the future of fabrics.

What Are Textile Fibers?
Textile fibers are slender, thread-like structures that can be spun into yarn and woven or knitted into fabric.
They are broadly classified into two main categories: natural fibers and synthetic fibers.

From Fiber Knowledge to Fabric Production in Bali
Understanding textile fibers is just the first step — turning them into beautiful, functional garments requires skilled craftsmanship and the right production partner. In Bali, Bali Garment Manufacture works with both natural fabrics such as linen, cotton, and rayon, and synthetic blends like polyester-spandex, to produce high-quality apparel for brands around the world.
Our team can help you choose the best fiber for your design, source sustainable materials, and handle every stage of production — from pattern making and sampling to bulk manufacturing and quality control. Whether you’re launching a resort wear line in breathable linen, creating eco-friendly collections in hemp and organic cotton, or designing activewear with performance fabrics, our Bali-based facility delivers ethical, small-to-large-scale manufacturing with worldwide shipping.

Types of Textile Fibers
Natural Fibers
Natural fibers are derived from plants, animals, or minerals, and are valued for their comfort, breathability, and biodegradability. Many are considered more eco-friendly than synthetics, making them a preferred choice in sustainable fashion.
Plant-Based Fibers
Cotton is the most widely used plant-based textile fiber, known for its softness, breathability, and high absorbency. Derived from the bolls of the cotton plant, it is versatile enough for everyday wear and household textiles. Linen, made from flax plant fibers, offers exceptional durability, a crisp texture, and a natural sheen. It is ideal for warm climates thanks to its cooling properties. Hemp is another strong and sustainable plant fiber, naturally resistant to mold and UV rays, and requires minimal pesticides and water compared to cotton. Jute, often used in bags, ropes, and mats, is coarse but fully biodegradable, making it a low-cost and eco-friendly choice grown mainly in Bangladesh and India.
Animal-Based Fibers
Wool, sourced from sheep, is prized for its warmth, elasticity, and ability to wick moisture away from the skin. Its variations range from the ultra-soft merino wool to the coarser lambswool used in outerwear. Silk, produced by silkworms, is one of the most luxurious fibers, valued for its smooth texture, elegant drape, and natural sheen. Cashmere, obtained from cashmere goats, is incredibly soft, lightweight, and insulating, though it is considered a premium fiber due to its labor-intensive harvesting process.
Mineral-Based Fiber
Asbestos is the most recognized mineral-based fiber, historically valued for its fire resistance. However, due to serious health risks, it is no longer widely used in textile production.

Synthetic Fibers
Synthetic fibers are man-made materials produced through chemical processes, often using petroleum-based resources. They are known for their durability, wrinkle resistance, and ability to be engineered for specific performance needs.
Polyester is one of the most common synthetic fibers, offering strength, quick-drying capability, and resistance to shrinking and stretching. It is often blended with natural fibers to enhance fabric durability. Nylon is another popular option, valued for its elasticity, smooth texture, and abrasion resistance, making it ideal for activewear, sports gear, and outdoor equipment. Acrylic is a lightweight and warm synthetic fiber that mimics the feel of wool, commonly used in sweaters and blankets. Spandex, also known as Lycra, is celebrated for its exceptional elasticity and is typically blended with other fibers to add stretch to garments like leggings, swimsuits, and athletic wear. Rayon is considered a semi-synthetic fiber because it is derived from natural cellulose but undergoes chemical processing. It is soft, breathable, and drapes well, making it a popular choice for dresses, blouses, and linings.

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