Some people need clarification about fabrics used to make different tartans. If you have the same query, this article is an accurate place to stay. Here, we will tell you about different fabrics like acrylic fiber, cotton, and wool that usually make tartans.
Not only this, but you will also learn about tartan-producing countries and some handy tips for caring for your tartan. First of all, let us have a short overview of tartan. tartan kilt
What Is Tartan?
Tartan is a criss-crossed pattern on kilts comprising two or more colors. They are historically vital since they have been a source of identity in Scottish cultures, and are specific to the clans.
People mostly wear tartans that their ancestors wore in the past. If you hear someone saying tartan is a fabric, there is no need to worry and comprehend it by yourself that he is talking about a fabric with tartan patterns on it.
Fabric And Tartans
Tartans are usually made with different fabrics and people have limited information about them. They only know that industries use cotton or wool fabrics to make tartans. However, the story is different; we have a list of fabrics used to make tartans.
Acrylic Fabric
Tartan is usually made with acrylic and currently it is the most used fabric. This fabric has some trading names, such as Acrilan, Creslan, Orlon, and Sayelle. Acrylic fabric is made with a synthetic polymer called acrylonitrile which is derived from petroleum and coal-based chemicals.
Did you know vegetarians usually avoid wearing this tartan? According to them, this fabric is made with sheep wool and they consider it as cruelty on animals. On the other hand, the acrylic fabric is warm enough to be worn in a cold atmosphere, and this point favors their claim.
However, the formulation of Acrylic fiber with chemicals answers the vegetarian community and clarifies wool is natural while this fiber is man-made.
Woven Wool
Tartans have different types, including traditional, universal, modern, etc. If you ever touch any traditional tartan, you will find it made with woven wool. Why is it so?
It is because woven wool was initially used to make tartans and now performs as a historical entity. If we deeply observe its history, people used it with colored threads to create different tartan designs to specify it for any clan.
Cotton Fabric
Cotton fabric is an essential to make tartans in this era. Its unique feature, being lightweight, makes it superior to others. In other words, this fabric is suitable for people who are allergic to wool or those who need to wear it on summer days. Cotton tartans are durable but they have less warmth compared to others.
Poly Viscose Fabric
Let us discuss the next fabric for tartans, which is a merger of polyester and viscose, and got the name polyviscose fabric. It is a heavy fabric material because of being dual-powered. In addition, it offers other benefits to wearers as it is cost-effective and more affordable than wool.
Nonetheless, it is not durable either and does not have a long lifespan comparatively. Usually, this fabric is plant-based, which means that it is sustainable or environmentally friendly.
Blend Of Wool And Silk Fabric
The final fabric on our list is the blend of wool and silk. Wool is a traditional fabric to make tartan, and silk is a natural protein fiber used to make fabric. Silk is the most robust fabric that maintains dyes for a long time, while wool is known for its warmth and other qualities like strength, elasticity, etc. Altogether, they make a tartan offering different qualities.
Countries That Make Fabric For Tartans
Tartans are historically worn in Scotland, clarifying that they are the top contributor to tartan-making countries. Computer looms there have taken the responsibility of making tartan in bulk. Still, some people make tartan by hand to appreciate the tradition and make unique patterns.
Besides Scotland, many other countries worldwide make tartans. For example, America has tartan making industries because of a high number of Scots residing there. Likewise, other countries follow America, such as Australia, India, Italy, and many more.
Caring For Tartan Fabric
Tartan fabrics are made with lightweight ingredients, so the proper care is essential. While getting one, you must know they are wool or cotton-made, and it is not good to wash them daily.
Still, if it is essential to wash tartan; it is better to wash tartans by hand rather than using an electrical gadget. You can also opt for dry cleaning after a specific time rather than washing.
If you get dust or debris over it, gently brush it. If you find some gentle spots on your tartan, use cold water and soak the affected place only. After you have washed it, drain the soapy water. Otherwise, it will harm your fabric. Once you finish washing
, ensure natural air drying instead of handing it over to the dryer attached with washing machines. Moreover, stay steer of unnecessary ironing to avoid damaging the fabric or use the low heat setting if you have no other option.
Conclusion
Once made with woven wool, tartans are now available in various fabrics like acrylic, cotton, poly viscose, and blends of these fabrics. Doubtlessly, tartan is a traditional identity for Scots, but wearers are easy to spot worldwide now. That’s why various countries make tartans now to fulfill the demand.
Though made of sensitive fabrics, it is also necessary to care for them. While caring, avoid rapid washing; choose dry cleaning instead. Ensure natural air drying rather than seeking help from electronics. What Kind Of Fabric Is Tartan?
