Textile includes any fabric made from fibers, yarn, or materials. Earliest textile structures were nets and basketry from prehistoric times. Weaving appeared around 5000 BCE, preceded spinning. Ancient civilizations used cotton, silk, wool, and flax
Silk production began in China around 3rd millennium BCE. Legend credits Yellow Emperor's wife with teaching silk weaving. Mashan tombs from 4th-3rd centuries BCE show early weaving techniques. Song dynasty perfected kesi, a fine silk tapestry technique
Silk is the strongest natural fiber made from fibroin protein secreted by silkworms. It is hypoallergenic, breathable, and absorbs up to 30% of its weight in moisture. Silk can stretch up to 20% without breaking
Satin is a type of weave originating over 2,000 years ago in China. Features smooth, glossy face side created by floating warp yarns. Can be made from silk, polyester, cotton, acetate or other fibers
Canvas is durable cotton fabric with water resistance when blended with synthetics. Cashmere is soft wool from goats, warmer and lighter than sheep's wool. Linen is strong, lightweight fabric from flax plant, ideal for summer clothing. Merino wool is softest wool type, odor-resistant and moisture-wicking. Silk is natural fiber from silk worm, known for shine and softness
Cotton is most widely used, cheapest to produce, and used for over 7,000 years. Flax produces luxurious linen, used for thousands of years in ancient Egypt. Hemp is environmentally friendly, grows faster than most trees, and produces twice as much fiber as cotton. Ramie is long-lasting, lightweight, and eco-friendly, used as cotton substitute. Jute is cheapest natural fiber, grows in tropical areas, and used for clothing and packaging