Silk is a natural fiber which is extracted from the cocoons of silkworms. Amazingly, one continuous thread from a single cocoon can measure up to 900 meters! It’s also incredibly strong – one of the strongest natural fibers in the world.
Silk production, known as sericulture is a quite labor intensive process which dates back thousands of years. Silk was first produced in China around the 27 century BC with cultivation eventually spreading to Japan and India. Nowadays China is still the largest producer of silk with India in second place.
Known as ‘the queen of textiles’ traditionally silk was used exclusively for high end society and today still holds its reputation for being an elegant, luxurious fabric.
Silk has a natural sheen and luster due to the structure of the silk fibers. This shape of the silk fiber refracts the light at different angles, which gives it a shimmering appearance. The shine of the fabric also depends on the weave and production. There are several different weaves that are used, each giving the silk a distinct look.
Here are some examples of popular silk weaves:
- Silk Satin (also known as charmeuse) is sleek, glossy and glamorous. It has a glossy face with a matte back.
- Silk Crepe is lightweight with a crisp texture and granular surface.
- Silk Chiffon is sheer with a soft feel and matte crepe texture.
- Georgette is made with a high twist resulting in a dry, grainy surface feel.
- Habutai is a basic plain weave traditionally woven in Japan (hence the name) however nowadays woven in China. Lightweight and commonly used as a lining.
- Crinkle has a subtle crinkled pleated appearance, it’s great for layering.
Silk fabric is measured by momme weight (mm). The bigger the number the heavier the silk weight, meaning more silk has been used in the weaving process. A very sheer silk chiffon may be 6mm while a silk satin might be 16mm.
Silk is graded A, B or C with A being the best. Grade A silk is high quality and comes from pearly white cocoons. At Silky Jaya we supply grade A silk and guarantee the best quality.
Be careful if you are purchasing from a different supplier as there are plenty of synthetic imitations out there! Remember silk is a relatively expensive fabric (due to the production process), so if you are getting it at a super cheap price, there is a possibility it is fake.
Why we love silk
Silk is durable, lightweight, breathable and hypoallergenic. It drapes beautifully and dyes easily, no wonder it’s such a favourite in the fashion industry. Being a natural fibre it is biodegradable and requires less water in production compared with cotton. It’s also thermo regulating, a stylish blouse or dress will keep you cool in hot climates while also providing insulation in colder climates if worn close to the skin.
How to care for Silk garments
We recommend hand washing in cool water. Some silks can be put on delicate cycle in the washing machine or you could have it dry cleaned. Dry your fabric flat, out of direct sunlight. You can steam it or iron it on a cool setting.
In addition to our 100% silk fabrics, we have a variety of different blends such as silk velvet, silk linen & silk cotton.