As we mentioned in this article about the origin of silk, this natural fiber is made from the cocoons of sericigenous insects. But did you know that there are different types of silk? In fact, there are about 35 different types of silk fabric, depending on the production of the silk and the way the fibers are worked.
Types of silk according to their origin
In addition to mulberry silk, which is the most common and well-known, there is also Tussah silk. Do you know it?
Tussah silk
Tussah silk, or “shantung”, is the wild type of silk, produced by tussah silkworms that feed on oak and juniper leaves. Being a more peculiar feeding, this silk has a different feel and quality than mulberry silk.
Also, since these worms are not grown in controlled environments, their moths emerge from the cocoons and interrupt the length of the filament, resulting in short, coarser fibers, rather than the long, shiny fibers of mulberry silk. As a somewhat coarser silk, it creases less.
It is also a more difficult silk to dye, which often results in it being marketed in its natural color, which is a tan cream.
Mulberry silk
Mulberry silk is silk produced by mature, domesticated silkworms that secrete liquid silk or natural silk fiber.
It is the oldest animal fiber, used for thousands of years to make all kinds of light, soft, moisture-absorbing garments.
This type of silk contains more than 18 amino acids and protein fibers, making it a very healthy fabric choice for skin and hair.
Compared to Tussah silk, it is more luxurious and breathable.
Types of silk by weaving method
We can find different varieties of silk fabrics according to the weaving methods used.
Charmeuse silk
Charmeuse is a silk fabric made with a particular way of weaving, which gives it an extra sheen on the front and a more opaque finish on the back. This is why it is often selected for garments or products that do not need to show both sides of the fabric, such as bed linens.
Crêpe de Chine
This lightweight fabric is made from mulberry silk fibers, where some of these fibers are twisted in different directions. These twisted fibers give it a characteristic pebble-like appearance.
It is possible to find different varieties, it is a comfortable and breathable fabric, which wrinkles easily. Unlike other types of silk, this fabric has a matte texture and a rather dull sheen.
Silk chiffon
This fabric is light and matte, made with twisted threads, spaced apart to make the fabric sheer. It is a soft and stretchy fabric, very comfortable and breathable.
Georgette silk
Georgette silk, or Georgette crepe, is a lightweight fabric, woven with highly twisted yarns. It is a durable fabric, although it snags easily when it is being sewn. It is a less lustrous and heavier variable than chiffon. It is often used in ball gowns.
Habotai silk
China silk, Habutai silk or Pongee silk, is the classic silk fabric, first used for lining kimonos. Its weight can range from 5 mm to 12 mm for the heaviest ones.
Dupion silk
This type of silk is produced from two silkworms spinning a single cocoon, which makes the double-thread silk stronger, but also rougher.
This type of fabric usually has black specks that are part of the original cocoon and add a characteristic differential value.
Conclusion
In Hamzah you will find 100% natural and original silk scarves, made with techniques that respect at all times the production process to offer the customer a quality product, which has all the properties and characteristics of this natural fiber.
