An iron contains a heating element that heats the shiny base plate. A thermostat controls the temperature and a light turns off when the correct temperature is reached ( see p. 112). Irons contain a small water tank that creates steam which is released through the base making it easier to remove creases. • Check the care label and select the correct heat setting. • Iron clothes while they are still slightly damp or use a steam iron for a smoother finish.
• Iron some items inside out (why?). • Iron carefully to avoid creasing.
This section can be linked to CBA1: Creative Textiles. Classroom-Based
Assessment Revision Questions
1. Give three reasons why care labels are attached to textiles. 2. Sketch and describe a care label for (a) a wool jumper and (b) a pair of denim jeans.
3. Suggest a stain remover for each of these stains (a) blood, (b) oil and (c) ink. 4. What guidelines should be followed when washing and drying a linen dress? 5. List four guidelines to follow when ironing clothes.
Summary
O O Textiles get dirty and stained easily, so it is important to clean them before the dirt and stains become ingrained into the fabric. Clean clothes that are well cared for look better and last longer.
O O Fibres are tiny hair-like threads. They are twisted together into yarn and the yarn is then made into fabric.
O O Fibres are classified into natural fibres (plant and animal) and man-made fibres (synthetic and regenerated).
OO Blended fabrics are a mix of two or more fibres. Denier is the thickness of the fibre. Fibres are woven, knitted or bonded into fabric.
OO Finishes are applied to fabrics to make caring for them easier, and improve appearance and performance. Fabric finishes include brushing, anti-static, flame resistance, and waterproofing, dyeing and printing.
