ABSTRACT
This introductory chapter outlines that the purpose of this book is to identify the basic raw materials and the more important products and processes of relevance to the design and manufacture of textiles. The book covers subject areas of importance to textile and fashion designers and others who are not so much concerned with the engineering and scientific aspects of the subject but rather need to develop a general awareness of fibres, yarns and cloths, their properties and how they are processed. Largely, the order of chapters follows the chronological sequence of processing from fibrous raw materials to finished cloth and its testing.
It is stressed that the book is intended for those needing an outline of textile processing and products rather than a comprehensive scientific appraisal.
