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.
Uses of Noil Silk Fabric
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.
