Natural Fibers Generate Excitement and Spark Innovation
In Global Textiles Product Development

Soft, supple, high-quality fibers are the foundation for the finest home fashions, and manufacturers all over the world are turning to natural fabrications in order to capture consumer interest.

Home textiles producers are using more premium cotton fibers, particularly long-staple Egyptian cotton, American Pima and branded Supima cotton, certified organic cotton and naturally-colored cotton. Suppliers also are turning their attentions to a wide variety

"Consumers have become accustomed to the luxury feel and look of higher thread count sheets." --Jesse Curlee, Supima

of alternative fibers, especially sustainable products such as bamboo, wood-based cellulose fibers, hemp, jute and linen.

Suppliers agree that natural fibers are the key component in manufacturing superior home fashions, and therefore demand is increasing. "The finest quality can only be attained when made from superior material," explains Sahar Mounir, executive director of the Cotton Egypt Association, which markets and certifies Egyptian cotton. "Fabrics made of Egyptian cotton are softer, finer and last longer than any other cotton in the world, which translates to guaranteed quality for discerning consumers."

Jesse Curlee, president of Supima, the branding and licensing organization of American pima cotton growers, points out, "Textile manufacturers around the world are using more Supima today than at any time. The reason is the increasing desire and demand for luxury home textiles. In sheeting, for example, consumers have become accustomed to the luxury feel and look of higher thread count sheets. These types of sheets require a longer and stronger fiber and Supima cotton meets this requirement. Supima cotton also gives towels a softer feel and a more vibrant appearance."

"The finest quality can only be attained when made from superior material."--Sahar Mounir, Cotton Egypt Association

The term "long staple" refers to the actual length of the cotton fibers; longer fibers produce fabrics that are both softer and stronger.

"The fiber is desirable because it has a more luxurious appearance and a superior hand or feel," Curlee notes. "It is almost 40% stronger than regular cotton, so products made of Supima cotton are much more durable."

Mounir asserts, "Extra-long and long-staple Egyptian cotton offers unique characteristics, renowned worldwide for the opulence of its products, which feature heavenly softness and vivid colors. Products made of Egyptian cotton retain durability and produce less lint and therefore will not pill after repeated washings. Also, thread count is important. The higher thread count means the fabric will be incredibly strong and will last for years and years. Since thread count is influenced by the composition and fineness of the yarn used, with Egyptian Cotton more threads can be woven into a square inch, which produces a finer fabric, sometimes surpassing 1,000-thread-count."

Home textiles manufacturers also are using a wide variety of alternative fibers, touting benefits such as sustainability, moisture absorbency and natural bacteria resistance.

"Bamboo fibers are super-soft and have a nice cool feeling on your body." --Rich Delano, Bamboo Textiles Bamboo transforms easily from raw plant material to finished fiber.

Bamboo, for instance, is one of the world's fastest-growing plants and requires no pesticides or chemicals. Fabrics made from bamboo fibers are soft and breathable, according to the manufacturers.

"Bamboo fibers are super-soft and have a nice, cool feeling on your body," explains Rich Delano, president of California-based Bamboo Textiles, speaking on behalf of the American Bamboo Society. "Many customers want to 'go green,' and bamboo grows without any chemicals or fertilizers."

Suppliers also show renewed interest in using classic luxury fibers, including linen. "Linen is now used in a contemporary way," declares Julie Pariset, project manager for Masters of Linen, a division of the European Confederation of Flax and Hemp. "Linen is naturally insulating in the winter, and fresh and breathable in the summer. It absorbs moisture and is anti-bacterial, making it the perfect choice for bed linen, home wear and bathroom linen.

"Sustainability is an important factor," Pariset adds. "Flax growing in Europe, which represents 70% of production worldwide, is environmentally friendly, thanks to the climate, soil and crop rotation which require very little fertilizer and pesticides. And absolutely no irrigation is needed."

Wool is another traditional standby that is increasingly popular due to its natural temperature regulation, softness, durability and natural flame-resistance. "Home textiles manufacturers are using more wool today, principally in the manufacture of carpets, rugs, and filled bedding," states Maria Cafici, information and communications coordinator, Woolmark Market Intelligence. "For thousands of years, wool has been the natural way to enjoy a comfortable, luxurious and tranquil night's rest. Today the bedroom is much more than a place for sleeping. It is a quiet haven, a retreat from the stresses of day-to-day life. Wool provides the perfect mix of strength and softness that gives powerful feelings of safety, security and comfort.

"Wool is warm in winter and cool in summer, because wool fibers trap millions of microscopic pockets of air," Cafici adds. "In addition, you can sleep easy knowing that you're utilizing one of the world's most eco-friendly textiles. Wool is a sustainable resource, each year a new fleece grows on the sheep's back."

Suppliers predict that global demand for natural fibers will continue to increase.

"Demand should stay high; linen lovers appreciate its qualities and character," Pariset comments. "Linen is solid, durable, and ages beautifully. It has a distinctive look; it's elegant and timeless."

Bamboo Textiles opened a new Chinese factory for bamboo products in February. "We see demand increasing, because not too many people know about bamboo fibers--—bamboo is only about 1% or 2% of the home textiles industry," Delano says. "However, once anyone tries it, they want more."

Supima cotton is used extensively in high-thread-count sheeting.

Supima's Curlee notes, "Our exports of Supima cotton continue to increase almost every year and world demand increases for both home textiles and apparel."

Mounir of the Cotton Egypt Association remarks, "When you ask consumers about the most renowned cotton, the common reply is 'Egyptian cotton.' They prefer Egyptian cotton because of its luxury, softness, comfort and durability."

Woolmark's Cafici notes, "New and innovative interiors product ranges, increasing consumer interest in finer wool products and natural fibers are all contributing factors to the increase in wool use by manufacturers. Wool's special comfort and safety properties are available in a wide range of beautiful, luxurious—--but highly affordable—--bedding products. Increasing consumer demand for natural and 'green' textiles will also have a positive effect. Our interior textiles area predicts that one of the growth areas will be in the luxury end of the market."