About
Silk is a natural animal fiber which is produced by the silkworm in the construction of its cocoon. It is the filaments from the cocoon that we use to produce the fine silk garments. Raw silk - which has not been processed, contains sericin, or silk glue, and is harsh and stiff. However, silk is soft and white when all the glue has been removed by steeping and boiling in soap baths.
Characteristics
Silk is noted for its strength, elasticity and outstanding resiliency - it hardly creases, and wrinkles tend to fall out. It has a beautiful luster and feels pleasant against bare skin due to its fineness and softness. Silk hardly build any electrostatic charge, because it always contains moisture which conducts away the charge. Much like wool, silk is seen as both cool and warm and is great to wear all year round. It can also absorb and hold 1/3 of its weight in water without feeling wet.
Good to know
Besides the mulberry silkworm, which is the most common cultivated silkworm, there are many wild species. The most important of these is the Tussah; wild silk that is gathered from trees and bushes
Blends
Silk is usually processes as the pure fiber. It can be blended with practically all apparel fibers. However, blends with wool and fine animal hairs of high quality are valued highly.
Aftercare
Silk garments do not have to be washed between each wear, simply hang it out in fresh air or in a damp bathroom to remove any odors.
Wash Silk garments carefully; hand wash or delicate machine wash in cold water on a mesh-bag.
Use a mild cleaning product, such as The Laundress Delicate Wash detergent.
Do not bleach. Iron with medium heat on reverse. Can be dry cleaned. Do not tumble dry, nor dry in direct sunlight.
* Sources: “Clothing Technology 3rd Edition” by Eberle, Hermeling, Hornberger, Menzer and Ring