First of all, it should be remembered that SILK is a MATERIAL and that SILK CHIFFON , also called CHIFFON , is only a METHOD OF WEAVING silk.
Don't be mistaken when you read the term “fabric type” and think that it is the material the fabric was made from.
A type of fabric simply refers to a way of weaving a material.
For example, the fabric type Chiffon means that the Silk was woven using weaving techniques called Chiffon.
If you only find the mention “Muslin”, it could be a muslin weave made from a material such as cotton, wool or even polyester.
Now that the distinction has been made between silk and muslin, we will describe the characteristics of this type of weaving, its derivatives, the use that can be made of it, as well as the way of maintaining the fabrics which result.
Chiffon - Chiffon
The History of Chiffon:
Silk chiffon also called silk chiffon originated from the city of Dakha in Bangladesh.
After the industrial revolution, this weaving technique spread throughout Europe via the Middle East. Muslin became popular in France in the late 18th century.
In the 19th century, this armor was woven exclusively from silk, which made the fabric extremely expensive and therefore mainly intended for aristocrats and nobility. At that time, chiffon was synonymous with luxury and wealth.
It was between 1938 and 1958, when nylon and other synthetic materials were introduced, that muslin fabrics became affordable.
Making silk chiffon:
Muslin uses twisted and gathered threads to create a fabric with a crinkled effect.
This technique consists of using s-twist and z-twist crepe threads which will be twisted respectively in the direction of a clockwise, then in the opposite direction, to finally be woven in “plain weave”. That is to say, a single weft thread will alternate over and under a single warp thread.
It is a difficult fabric to sew due to its flexibility and it can fray easily.
The characteristics of silk chiffon:
Chiffon is light and transparent, similar to tissue paper.
This fabric will have a plain, shimmering weave and a slightly rough texture.
Chiffon is very durable but will tend to easily fray, lose its shape and sag over time.
The different possible uses of silk chiffon:
Silk chiffon is suitable for interior decorations as well as for making clothes.
This weaving technique is perfect for creating loose, flowing garments, for layering and for adding volume.
Thanks to its beautiful drape and shimmering appearance, chiffon is commonly used in making wedding dresses.
Its light and fluid side makes it the perfect fabric for scarves, shirts, airy feminine tops and nighties.
Its transparency also makes it an excellent fabric for lingerie.
Chiffon is very famous for making saris. To bring out the beauty of a saree, one should use a brightly colored fabric. What makes silk chiffon ideal for this type of clothing is its ability to retain dyes and bring out colors well.
Chiffon Washing Instructions:
Dry washing is recommended for silk chiffon fabrics to preserve their shine and not to dull their color.
Weaving is an art that translates into diverse and varied forms. However, what must be remembered is that no matter the material used, a specific weaving technique will always give the fabric an almost similar appearance.
For example, a chiffon fabric will look very similar to a polyester chiffon fabric. The big difference will lie in the benefits that one material brings compared to another.
It is therefore important not to be fooled by the appearance of a fabric, and to always check the label of an item to find out the material from which it was woven.
Discover the benefits of silk
Discover how to recognize real silk