Properties of Textiles (AQA GCSE Design & Technology): Revision Note

Exam code: 8552

Philip Holton

Written by: Philip Holton

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

Updated on

Properties of textiles in commercial products

  • Commercial products are made from textiles because of the properties that these materials have

  • For each commercial product, the material used will have properties which benefit the use of that product

Commercial products made from textiles

  • Everyday clothing

  • Upholstery/furnishings

  • Sportswear/performance clothing

Properties of textiles and their uses

  • There is a wide range of textile based commercial products

  • The material that the manufacturer has chosen to use for each depends on the properties that material has

Everyday clothes

Material

Wool

General properties

Natural fibres from animals which are flame resistant

Performance properties

Excellent insulator

Mechanical properties

Crease resistant

Physical properties

Absorbs moisture well

Upholstery/furniture

Material

Cotton

General properties

Natural plant fibres

Performance properties

Breathable and easy to dye

Mechanical properties

Moderate strength

Physical properties

Soft to touch

Sportswear

Material

Polyester

General properties

Synthetic

Performance properties

Durable and resistant to creasing

Mechanical properties

Strong

Physical properties

Low absorbency

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Philip Holton

Author: Philip Holton

Expertise: Design and Technology Content Creator

Phil is a Design and Technology specialist with over 22 years of experience across education, curriculum development, and assessment, working with major exam boards and organisations across the UK. He focuses on making GCSE D&T clear and accessible, helping students build the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in their exams.

Bridgette Barrett

Reviewer: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Development Editor

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 30 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.