It's important to know the different properties of fibre blends like polyester/cotton, and how these properties affect the end use of fibres.
Polyester or nylon microfibres are 60 to 100 times finer than a human hair. They can be blended with synthetic or natural fibres and are used for clothing for outdoor pursuits and active sportswear.
Thermoplastic polyester or nylon microfibres can be heat-treated to give them coils, crimps and loops, which makes these textured yarns stretchy and warm. They are used for underwear, sportswear, knitwear and carpets.
Blending different fibres together produces yarns that have the combined properties of each component fibre. Using fibre blends improves the appearance, performance, comfort and aftercare of fabric. Blending can also reduce the cost of an expensive fibre.
Make sure that you know the properties and end uses of fibre blends such as polyester/cotton. You'll get extra marks for being able to link a fibre's properties to the product it's used for: eg, Tencel fibre is suitable for denim jeans because it is soft, drapes well and is easy to care for.
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