Author: Ilja Stall

Jacquard is known for its complex patterns, textures and images, made possible through the use of the Jacquard weaving machine. This machine, invented by Joseph Marie Jacquard in the early 19th century, enabled the weaving of intricate designs through the use of perforated cards. These cards caused different threads to be lifted up at different times, creating the desired pattern. Today, the process is fully automated. 

The ability to weave sophisticated details into the fabric creates an artistic and luxurious look. Jacquard can be either woven or knitted. Where woven Jacquard is produced on a Jacquard loom resulting in a firmer and dense structure, knitted Jacquard fabrics are produced on knitting machines. In this process, the pattern is knitted directly into the fabric, giving these fabrics a lighter, more elastic and softer texture. This makes knitted Jacquard fabrics perfect for comfortable garments such as sweaters and dresses. Woven Jacquards are also great for interior fabrics and other decorative applications due to their strength. Furthermore, Jacquard fabrics are sometimes reversible, meaning that the pattern can be seen on both sides.

At Polytex Stoffen, we have both knitted and woven Jacquards. How about this knitted floral pattern in various colors from recycled yarns? Or this woven shiny jacquard? Or this more classic pattern?

In short, Jacquard is not just another fabric and is a work of art in itself. Discover the magic of Jacquard and be inspired by the endless possibilities this beautiful fabric has to offer! 

Washing fabrics is an essential skill to ensure that clothing and other textile products look fresh and clean while preserving their lifespan. However, not all fabrics can be washed in the same way. In this article, we share useful tips and guidelines for washing different types of fabrics.

Before washing a new fabric, it is crucial to carefully read the washing instructions. Here, you will find information on specific washing guidelines and any restrictions, such as maximum wash temperatures or special treatments. Following these instructions helps prevent damage to the fabric.

Cotton
Cotton is one of the most common fabrics and fortunately, one of the easiest to maintain. Most cotton fabrics can be machine-washed using a regular cycle and a suitable detergent. It is recommended to wash colors separately to prevent color bleeding. Dry cotton preferably at a low temperature to prevent shrinkage.

Check out our cotton fabrics.

Wool
Wool fabrics require a bit more care. In most cases, wool should be hand-washed in cold water with a mild wool detergent. Avoid rubbing or wringing the fabric to prevent felting. After washing, wool should be laid flat to dry, away from direct sunlight.

Check out our wool fabrics.

Silk
Silk is a delicate fabric that requires caution when washing. Hand wash in cold water with a mild detergent suitable for silk. Avoid strong friction and wringing. Let silk fabrics dry flat, away from direct sunlight.

Check out our silk fabrics.

Viscose, Tencel, and Bamboo
Natural artificial silk fabrics like viscose, Tencel, and bamboo also require special care when washing. Although considered natural fibers, they have a delicate nature similar to silk. It is advisable to hand wash these fabrics in cold water with a mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics. Prefer machine washing? Do it at 30 degrees. Avoid wringing or squeezing the fabric to prevent damage. Drying viscose, Tencel, and bamboo should be done lying flat, preferably on a drying rack or towel, away from direct sunlight. This careful treatment helps maintain the texture and sheen of artificial silk fabrics, contributing to the longer lifespan of garments made from these beautiful materials.

Check out our viscose, Tencel, and bamboo fabrics.

Synthetic Fabrics
Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, can usually be safely machine-washed. Use a mild detergent and choose a delicate or synthetic fabric cycle. Wash synthetic fabrics at lower temperatures to prevent shrinking and hang them up or lay them flat to dry.

Special Treatments
Some fabrics require special treatments, such as delicate embroidery or fabrics with sequins or beads. For these fabrics, hand washing is often the best option. If possible, consult a professional dry cleaner for advice on cleaning these fabrics.

In conclusion, washing fabrics is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Different fabrics require different care and attention. On the attached label, we always provide the washing instructions.

If you are unsure how to wash a fabric from Polytex Stoffen, contact us at sales@polytexstoffen.com.
We are happy to help!

Slow Shopping: An Experience of Conscious Enjoyment and Sustainability

In today’s busy and fast-paced world, where online shopping has become the norm, there is a growing need for a more relaxed and mindful approach to shopping. A new trend has emerged: Slow Shopping, which revolves around “looking leisurely and buying mindfully.” This movement opposes the hyper-shopping phenomenon, where consumers rush and shop impulsively with the goal of buying what they need as quickly as possible. Slow Shopping, on the other hand, takes the time to savor the shopping experience and pays attention to sustainability.

The Origin of Slow Shopping

Slow Shopping has emerged as a response to increasingly hectic shopping experiences and the growing dominance of online shopping. In contrast to the speed and convenience of online shopping, Slow Shopping emphasizes a decelerating and enriching experience in physical stores. Instead of rushing through the aisles, Slow Shopping invites customers to slow down and take the time to explore, discover, and experience.

Experience and Entertainment in Stores

An essential aspect of Slow Shopping is the emphasis on experience and entertainment in stores. Retailers have realized that customers not only want to buy products but also seek a meaningful experience. Stores are transforming into true experiential centers, where customers are invited to taste, test, learn, and create.

In modern slow shopping concepts, we find Experience Centers, Brand Flagship Stores, and Experience Salons. These stores offer much more than just products. They can serve as meeting places, with spaces to relax or enjoy a cup of coffee. Workshops and events are organized to engage and entertain customers.

Sustainability and Conscious Living

Another key pillar of Slow Shopping is sustainability and conscious living. Stores that embrace slow shopping pay close attention to the origin of products, the use of natural materials, and the environmental impact. They work to minimize waste and strive for a more circular economy.

Conscious consumers are drawn to slow shopping because of its focus on sustainability. In these stores, products come with a story, from the origin of raw materials to the production process and recycling after use. Customers feel engaged and supported in their pursuit of a conscious lifestyle.

The Emotional Connection with Brands

Slow Shopping is also about building a deeper emotional connection between customers and brands. Due to the longer dwell time in stores, customers have the opportunity to connect with the brand and its values. This leads to higher brand loyalty and a preference for physical stores over online shopping.

Experience It with Polytex Fabrics

At our fabric wholesale, sustainability is not just a trend but an integral part of who we are as a company. The vast majority of our fabrics adhere to OEKO-TEX guidelines, ensuring that you receive fabrics that are free from harmful substances and safe for people and the environment. We remain committed to making the most sustainable and responsible choices in our product range and practices, and we invite our customers to join us in striving for a more conscious and sustainable future. Explore our sustainable fabrics here.

Source: “Look, look, … buy!” from Fashion United.

Printing on Fabric: A Journey Through Time and Technology
Printing on fabric is an ancient art that reflects the evolution of human creativity and technology. Over the years, craftsmen and technicians have developed various methods to create stunning prints on fabric, ranging from traditional techniques to advanced digital methods. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through time and introduce you to the different ways of printing on fabric and the techniques used at Polytex Stoffen.

The Origin of Textile Printing
The history of textile printing dates back thousands of years. Early civilizations in Egypt, India, and China were already using techniques to decorate fabrics with prints. One of the oldest methods is block printing, where wooden blocks were carved with patterns and then used to paint the fabric. This artisanal technique is still used in some parts of the world to create unique fabric prints.

Rotary Printing: A Breakthrough in Industrial Printing
In the 19th century, rotary printing was invented, revolutionizing the textile industry. This method allowed for the rapid and efficient printing of large quantities of fabric using rotating cylinders. With rotary printing, complex designs and patterns could be reproduced with higher precision and speed than ever before.

Some examples of rotary printing are our successful graphic design on tricot jersey and this jogging inspired by the popular Netflix series ‘Emily in Paris.’

Digital Printing: A New Era of Creativity
In modern times, digital technology has taken fabric printing to a new level. Digital printing utilizes advanced printers that directly print digital designs on the fabric. It offers unprecedented opportunities for creativity and customization, with every detail of the design accurately reproduced.

At Polytex Stoffen, we often use digital printing techniques for fabric printing. This method allows us to create a wide range of designs and colors, perfectly tailored to our customers’ preferences. Whether it’s vibrant floral prints, geometric patterns, or realistic images, digital printing makes it all possible.
How to recognize a Polytex Stoffen digital fabric? Look for the word ‘dig’ in the product description. View all digital fabrics.

Transfer Printing: An Alternative Approach
In addition to digital and rotary printing, we also occasionally use transfer printing. This method involves special transfer papers, where the design is first printed on the paper and then transferred to the fabric using heat and pressure. Transfer printing is particularly suitable for special effects like glitter prints, foils, and metallics.

Some examples include this knitted mesh fabric with a foil leopard print or this knitted tulle with heart patterns attached using a silver foil.

Sustainability in Fabric Printing
With the ongoing focus on sustainability in the textile industry, we aim to use environmentally friendly and responsible printing methods.

Fabric printing is an art that has evolved over the centuries and continues to innovate with technological advancements. At Polytex Stoffen, we embrace these technological advances and strive to achieve stunning and sustainable fabric prints. Whether it’s traditional methods like block printing, industrial techniques like rotary printing, or modern digital printing methods, each step in this journey has contributed to the beautiful world of textile printing that we know today!

With this beautiful late summer, we can enjoy all the summer trends even longer. Let’s take a closer look at these ‘summer 2023’ trends once again!

1. Punk Vibes

Punk is back and stronger than ever. Spring and summer 2023 are characterized by edgy and bold looks. Think high platform heels, spikes, and eye-catching jewelry to make a statement. Combine graphic tops with leather accents to create a fearless look that leaves an impression. For example, with our soft leather-look fabric!

2. Sunny colours

A refreshing change from recent years, the trend colors for spring/summer 2023 are sunnier and more vibrant than ever before. Pantone predicts an abundance of red-orange shades that amplify the summer vibe. From ruby red to peach, dark yellow to salmon pink, nearly half of the colors lean towards the orange spectrum. Dare to play with these lively hues and give your wardrobe a summer boost. How about this cheerful print? Or opt for this solid fabric!

3. Sheer Fabrics

Transparency is a key trend in 2023. Sheer fabrics grace the runways, creating a playful and seductive look. Combine a sheer blouse with a bandeau top underneath for an elegant yet daring appearance. This trend allows you to experiment with layering and adds an airy touch to your summer outfits. What about this organza with a playful floral design?! Or this romantic print as a top!

4. Frills and Ruffles

Frills, also known as ruffles, are back in full force. These refined embellishments add a touch of romance to your summer wardrobe. Opt for a ruffled dress or a top with voluminous sleeves for a feminine and graceful look. This trend is versatile and suits both casual and formal occasions.

5. Double Denim

Denim remains a classic, and in the summer of 2023, we see the rise of double denim. Dare to wear denim on denim by pairing a denim jacket with matching jeans. This effortless and stylish look is suitable for any occasion and is sure to leave a lasting impression. Have you discovered our denim collection yet?

6. Prints and Stripes

Summer prints and stripes are unmissable in 2023. Go for floral prints, tropical motifs, or vibrant stripes to brighten up your summer wardrobe. Combine different prints for a bold mix-and-match look that reflects the sunny days.

With this fabric, you can create a daring sheer blouse with stripes!

7. Metallic and Sparkling Effects

Give yourself a glamorous update with metallic and sparkling fabrics. From glittering dresses to metallic accessories, this trend adds a touch of shimmer to your summer ensemble. Perfect for evening parties and special occasions. With this waterproof fabric, you’ll have those summer vibes both in and around the pool!

8. Let’s go retro

The 1980s are making a strong comeback with vintage-inspired styles. Think oversized blazers, bold shoulder pads, and colorful prints. Combine these retro elements with modern pieces for a contemporary look that harks back to the glory days of fashion. How about these ‘retro balls,‘ exclusively designed and made for Polytex Fabrics?

9. Swimming in Style

Peepholes and backless designs are not just for cute dresses or tops; this bold trend has also made its way into swimwear. Initially, it may create interesting tan lines, but it offers versatile options for the ultimate capsule vacation wardrobe. How? Wear your swimsuit as an elegant dinner top in the evening. Pair it with a stylish skirt, add some embellishments to your ears, and slip into a chic heel: et voilà, you’re ready to dine in style. Steal the show with one of our neon terry fabrics!

Overall, the summer of 2023 is all about boundless creativity. Let your imagination run wild and embrace the sparkling vibes of these summer trends!

In one of the last issues of Fibre Mood Magazine (no. 22), teacher Sas (Saskia) saw a dress she had to make anyway: dress Judy! With the sewing pattern and our bamboo in aubergine, teacher Sas went to work! You can see the result here!

Did you know that the fabric used by teacher Sas is also available in other cheerful colours?
Or make another model from the latest Fibre Mood magazine!