By:Courtney LaPere


Introduction


Fabricated textile products require joining fabric togetherby some means. A variety of methods include: sewing, gluing, thermally bonding,etc. This joined fabric is required to have similar strength at the point ofjoining as the original fabric. This method of joining is commonly calledseaming. Seams are the basic element of structure of any apparel, homefurnishing product and industrial textiles. The main focus of thisinvestigation is to study the joining parameters of fabric using a standardsewing machine.


Two different seam designs will be investigated on threewoven fabrics made from cotton, wool and silk. Textile products are producedfrom various fibers and different fabric construction, hence finding a specificseam that will best suit each individual product. Fabric seams are the mostimportant parameter to maintain product integrity.


Statement of Problem


It is necessary to determine the most appropriate seam foreach type of fabric to achieve a desired product quality. Quality reflects theperformance of the apparel or textile product. Distinct seams are suitable forparticular fabrics because each fabric has its own unique properties. Fabricquality is related to physical property and performance features.


The fiber content influences the overall characteristics ofa fabric. Understanding the components of the fabric and the quality of theseam will ensure the best performance for that particular product.


Purpose of Study


This study will lead to the optimization of seam designs forcotton, wool and silk fabrics that are used in home furnishing and apparelmanufacturing. From this purpose of study the following specific objectiveswill be addressed:


  1. Determine the effect of two different seam designs on fabrics produced from cotton, wool and silk yarns.
  2. Determine the range of seam efficiency within the same fabric utilizing a specific seam.
  3. Determine which seam design produces the highest seam strength for each of the three fabrics.


Significance of Studies


Maximize a potential seam to ensure that seam will interactwith the components of the fabric to ensure the best product durability.Besides the strength of the fabric, seams help guarantee the construction of aproduct. The functional performance features of the fabric and seam enhanceserviceability.


The majority of fabrics aesthetic properties relate toluster, drape, texture and hand. Each seam construction will establish adifferent relationship to the fabric because of the properties of the fabricand of the sewing thread. Comprising the knowledge of a specific seam thatproduces the greatest seam strength will be highly beneficial for new tests andproducts.


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About the Author


The author is associated with Eastern Michigan University, Michigan.


Originallypublished in New Cloth Market; July 2009