Blogs

Hemp is back in the spotlight for textiles, nonwovens and composites. Yet labs and mills still face a basic problem: how to measure fineness and length consistently . Unlike wool, bast fibres lack a single, trade-standard method that everyone follows for micron/width and true length distribution. Recent reviews emphasise fragmented methods, challenging sample prep, and inconsistent outputs . ( MDPI ) This guide summarises what’s commonly measured today, where the gaps are, an

When fibre measurements drive grading, contracts or genetics, method clarity matters. Two IWTO procedures sit at the centre of reliable results: IWTO-47  — measures the mean and distribution of fibre diameter  using an Optical Fibre Diameter Analyser (OFDA) . ( member.iwto.org ) IWTO-62  — determines fibre length distribution  (true length) and diameter in wool top & slivers  using the OFDA4000 . ( member.iwto.org ) Below is a plain-English walkthrough of what each covers (an

Flax has earned its place in modern textiles for performance and sustainability, but consistent linen quality still depends on what’s...

If you work with wool or other animal fibres, getting fibre diameter (“micron”) right isn’t optional — it drives handle, processing...

Flax is enjoying renewed interest. From premium linen to bio-composites and low-impact homewares, this bast fibre sits at the...

Silk fabric has been treasured for centuries, admired for its luxurious feel, natural sheen, and remarkable strength. Originating from...

In the world of textiles, fabric quality is determined by much more than colour or pattern. The very fibres that make up a fabric its...

In the vast world of natural fibres, few have stood the test of time like flax material. Ancient civilisations spun it into linen for...

Linen has long held a place of prestige in the world of textiles. Known for its crisp feel, natural elegance, and durability, it’s the...

For thousands of years, linen fabric has been a cornerstone of civilisation; used in clothing, bedding, décor, and even mummification....

Imagine a fibre that has been cherished for thousands of years, woven through the history of civilisation, and yet is now shaping the...

Textile fibre is the fundamental component of all fabrics and garments we use every day. Whether it’s the cotton shirt you’re wearing,...

In the world of wool and textile fibre analysis, precision isn't just a luxury—it’s essential. Accurate micron measurement plays a...

Wool has long been treasured for its warmth, versatility, and natural appeal. But behind every high-quality wool product lies a...

In today’s textile, wool, and fibre industries, fibre testing is no longer just a quality check—it's a crucial step in ensuring...

Fibre is at the heart of countless products we use every day – from the clothes we wear to the carpets we walk on. For industries like...

When it comes to textile production, one factor underpins every stage of the supply chain—from fibre sourcing to final product: accurate...

In an era where sustainability is no longer optional but essential, industries are increasingly rethinking traditional materials and...

When it comes to premium textiles, few fibres exude as much elegance and sophistication as mohair. But what is mohair exactly, and why...

When you hear “OFDA,” diameter is probably the first metric that comes to mind. But there’s another equally important parameter:...