An Exploration of Fancy Yarn Creation

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to compile a lexicon of fancy yarns, along with explore non-traditional methods of creating fancy yarns for use in the mechanized, or commercial textile industry. There are many different types of fancy yarns throughout the textile industry. Their uses range from upholstery to apparel and from transportation to home furnishings. Fancy yarns are regarded as any yarn which has deliberate inconsistencies applied during processing. This could include variation through the diameter of the yarn, character, or even in the color. Given the large number of fancy yarns, along with the possibility for a large number of variations, there is also a large number of manufacturing processes that are used in the creation of fancy yarns.

A few of the processes used to create fancy yarns include hollow-spindle machinery, fancy twisters, ring-spinning, and chenille machines. These methods have been researched and documented thoroughly.

After exploring the traditional methods for fancy yarn creation, untraditional methods were explored, mainly the Gilbos Air Twist System. This system consolidates input feedstock and inserts areas of s- and z-twist throughout the length of the yarn. These areas are separated by areas of entanglement, known as tack points. This research explores the possibilities of yarn creation on the Gilbos Air Twist System. Both yarn samples and fabric samples are included.