Noil silk fabric is also known as ‘raw silk’. The fabric is
very versatile and durable with matte surface and rough finish. It is
spun thick and nubby, just like cotton. It has a casual feel with
natural elasticity and is easily distinguished from other silk for the
subtle flecks on it, which are natural particles of the cocoon. The wrinkle resistance quality of the fabric has made it a good choice for traveling. Knit sweaters and pull-on garment made of noil silk fabric is widely used. Noil is also woven for suits, jackets, pants, skirts, slacks, etc.
Noil silk is obtained from the shorter fibers which are left after the longer ones are reeled out of the cocoon. These are normally of one inch or even shorter than that with tangled fibrous knots very often and black flecks of the cocoon. Noil silk which has not been properly de-gummed (the natural sericin removed) attracts dirt and odors. Hence washing before sewing is necessary.
Characteristics of Noil Silk Fabric
- It has a nubby feel and a low sheen.
- It sews easily.
- It doesn’t show pin holes.
- It has a gentle drape.
- It is durable.
- It can resist wrinkle.
- It is not very strong.
- It is off-white in color.
- It is easy to care.
- It is hand washed and looks better after every wash than with dry cleaning.
- It shrinks, hence pre-shrink by hand washing is necessary in lukewarm water and mild soap.
Noil silk drapes well, resists wrinkling and is easy to care. This quality of the silk has made it the perfect choice for travelers. The fabric is bulky, so it is widely used as the knit sweaters and pull-on garment. It is also used as suits, jackets, pants, skirts, slacks, etc. Noil silk fabric comes at a relatively lower cost.
