So, what is wet-finish? It is basically a first wash of the fabric that has been cut off the loom. It is done on maximum temperature and agitation that the yarn can tolerate. It does the following:
- removing wax, loose fibre, and any other debris
- letting the threats move to reveal the final look of the woven structure
- allowing the fibres to shrink, swell, stretch, or whatever they are inclined to do
Before wet-finish, the fabric is called “grey goods” or “loomstate”. Here is an example of the cotton towel in waffle weave, just off the loom:
After the wet-finish, the stiff and somewhat fish-net looking grey fabric softens, shrinks and tightens. Same towels after being washed the first time – see how the waffle structure became 3D compared to the flat fabric before wet-finish:
After the wet-finish, the fabric is usually washed using the standard and not extreme settings according to the yarn type. Here is the link to my recommendations.
So, this is what I do after I cut the fabric off the loom:
- hem the edges
- fix the broken threads and any thread skips
- wet-finish
- put the fabric in the dryer with low temperature and rubber balls, to soften the yarn, if the yarn allows, or
- dry it on a rack
- check for any skipped threads that I missed earlier
- embroider the middle markers
- wash the wraps on recommended settings
- dry them
- steam-iron
- pack for shipping.
I use the least scented fabric detergent, as I am scent-sensitive. I don’t use fabric softener in the washer or dryer.
Cat allergy alert: I have 5 cats at home, and as much I clean and wash, I cannot guarantee that the wrap is 100% cat hair free. Weaving also adds dust bunnies (some yarns shed more lint than others, but all of them do), so I am vigilant on my vacuuming duty. I weave with the door closed, to avoid cat hair woven in, and I do not let cats to touch the fabric.
However, if you’re allergic to cats, please exercise caution and refrain from ordering the wraps from me.
If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact me.
THE SILKY WEAVE 