What is the Difference Between Spun Yarn and Filament Yarn?

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The primary difference between spun yarn and filament yarn lies in the fibers they are made from and their appearance. Here are the key differences:

  • Spun Yarn:
  • Made from fibers with short discrete lengths, such as cotton and wool.
  • Created by twisting staple fibers together to form a strong thread.
  • Less lustrous and generally softer in terms of handle than filament yarns.
  • Tends not to slip as much as filament yarns and do not tend to snag as much.
  • Often used for hand or machine sewing, textiles, knitting, weaving, embroidery, and rope.
  • Produced in a complex manner.
  • Filament Yarn:
  • Made from long, continuous filaments, such as silk.
  • Created by extruding polymers derived from natural gas, used for synthetic filament yarns like polyester.
  • Smooth and lustrous appearance.
  • Stronger and more durable than spun yarn due to its continuous strand of fiber.
  • Produced straightforwardly.

In summary, spun yarn is made from short, discrete fibers and has a dull, fuzzy appearance, while filament yarn is made from long, continuous filaments and has a smooth, lustrous appearance. Additionally, spun yarn is generally less lustrous and softer than filament yarn.

Comparative Table: Spun Yarn vs Filament Yarn

Here is a table comparing the differences between spun yarn and filament yarn:

Feature Spun Yarn Filament Yarn
Type of Fibers Cotton, linen, wool, or synthetic fibers Natural silk fibers as well as synthetic fibers
Length of Fibers Short discrete lengths Continuous filaments
Look Dull or less lustrous Cool and lustrous
Softness Less soft Softer and more pliable
Strength Less strong More stronger
Absorbance More absorbent Less absorbent
Manufacturing Complex process Simpler process
Twig Twigs less Twigs more
Hairiness More hairy Smoother

Spun yarn is made from fibers with short discrete lengths, such as cotton, linen, wool, or synthetic fibers. It has a dull or less lustrous look and is less soft compared to filament yarn. Filament yarn, on the other hand, is made from continuous filaments of natural silk fibers as well as synthetic fibers. It has a cool and lustrous look, is softer and more pliable, and has a simpler manufacturing process compared to spun yarn.