Egyptian cotton is as famous as the pyramids of Giza, even in far-flung places. What makes this wonder fibre from the land of pharaohs, a
preferred choice for apparel makers?
Cotton is a preferred choice for fabric due to its
breathability, comfortability, and feel. Egyptian cotton is very renowned among
the cotton fabric segment. It would be surprising to know that Egyptian cotton
is originally from the North America. Introduced in Egypt during the nineteenth
century, Egyptian cotton gradually developed and today has become a favorite
material for apparel manufacturers all over the world.
Cotton of Egypt is renowned for beddings. Generally for
ages, thread count was given utmost importance in deciding the quality of
beddings. But presently, consumer guidelines suggest that Egyptian cotton is
superior to any other. This cotton usually consists of extra long staple cotton
and is used by luxury and up market brands globally. Egyptian cotton staples range
from 1.5 inches to 2 inches. Their extra long length which is twice the size
of other cotton fibres facilitate them to be spun into fine yarns that are
soft, strong and durable in nature. The longer staple of Egyptian cotton
enables continuous fibres when making threads or yarns. The yarn is smaller is
diameter, but stronger, comparatively over others. Smaller yarn implies more
thread count for a square inch, which will result in stronger fabrics that are
light weight and posses good breathability.
Gift of the Nile Valley:
Egypt has perfect conditions for cotton cultivation. The moist and rich soil
from the River Nile gives toughness, comfort, durability, and richness in
appearance to the cotton fabrics. The extra long staples of Egyptian cotton
absorb water very well, and are hence used mainly for making bath textile
products. Fabrics made from Egyptian cotton are hard, when new. But like wine,
quality of the cotton fabrics improve with age and becomes softer with every
laundering. This cotton produces less lint, and hence does not pill after
repeated washings like some other fabrics.
Exports of Egyptian cotton are pretty well distributed among
the developed, and the developing countries. With regards to developing
countries, 98% of Egyptian cotton fibres are being exported to Asian countries.
Of this India constitutes 34%, China and Turkey; 9% each, Thailand 7%, and Pakistan by 18%. When considering Egypts exports to developed countries, EU takes
the lead accounting for 56% of the exports. (Source: UNCTAD, Market
Information in the commodities area)
Fashion with cotton:
Clothing made from Egyptian cotton pampers the body with
softness and luxurious feel. Apparels made from this cotton are infamous for
their durability and soft touch. Cotton is also blended with other fibres such
as polyester for extra strength, or wrinkle resistance. Mixing cotton with silk
fibres gives it sheen, but loses some breathability. Hundred percent pure
cotton is a miracle fabric, and is completely natural. Checked patterns have
popularity in country areas, while stripes took over the metropolitan and city
areas.
Due to its luxurious feel and qualities, Egyptian cotton is
rightly considered as King Cotton. The country will retain its crown of glory
for the years to come, in future too!
References:
1.
http://myarticlewizard.com
2.
http://www.essortment.com
3. http://r0.unctad.org/infocomm/
