Our textile chemists have compiled this useful basic list of some of the most distinct properties of the cotton fiber. Cotton fibers and cotton blends can be found when dyeing cotton garments, tie-dyeing clothes, and piece goods dyeing.
For starters Cellulose is the main property in the cotton fiber. Cellulose is an organic compound and the basic structural component of plant cell walls.
Cellulose accounts for nearly the entire cotton fiber (about 90%). The remaining components of the cotton fiber are waxes, water, and resins.
Cellulose is made of CHO (Carbon, Hydrogen & Oxygen).
The wax that is found in cotton fibers creates a somewhat slippery surface that aids in the spinning of the yarns.
The wax also creates a resistance to dye absorption. Often a souring process post knitting and pre-dyeing is required to prepare the fiber for maximum dye absorption. Scouring baths are formulated with a wetting agent, soda ash, and an auxiliary detergent.
Cotton yarns are found in a wide variety of textiles. The most popular yarns for learning how to tie dye clothes are cotton.