What makes cotton such a versatile material? How is silk produced? Why do some people have trouble wearing wool? In this program interior designer Brandi Hagen explains the qualities of different kinds of fibers, both natural and synthetic. Nylon, rayon, cashmere, flax, polyester, acrylic, bamboo, microfibers, and alpaca are only some of the many fibers discussed. Viewers also learn about fabric construction techniques such as felting and knitting, and types of surface design including resist printing-commonly known as tie-dye-screen printing, block printing, and ikat.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on July 02, 2011. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware. Video worksheet available under Additional Info Tag. Also available as DVD (DV4294).

Introduction to Textiles (2:31) -- Natural Fibers (2:28) -- Bast Fibers (4:49) -- Wool (2:56) -- Silk (2:23) -- Synthetic Fibers - Nylon (2:23) -- Synthetic Fibers - Polyester (1:26) -- Synthetic Fibers - Rayon (0:59) -- Synthetic Fibers - Microfibers (1:03) -- Synthetic Fibers - Acrylic (1:27) -- Fabric Construction & Other Fabrics (2:18) -- Surface Designs (1:53) -- Credits: 'All About Textiles' (0:38) -- .