Textile Term: Combing
Combing is a textile process that involves the removal of short fibers, impurities, and neps from the long-staple fibers of a textile material. It is a process used to prepare fibers for spinning into yarn.
The process is particularly useful for fibers like cotton and wool, which have shorter staple lengths and tend to have more impurities compared to longer-staple fibers like silk.
This process is done using a machine called a combing machine, which is fitted with several rows of combs. During the combing process, the fibers are aligned in a parallel direction by running them through the combs with closely spaced teeth. The combs have different sizes of teeth that help to remove the short fibers and impurities.
This process results in a more uniform fiber length and quality. Combed yarns are stronger and more durable than carded yarns, as the removal of short fibers prevents them from creating weak spots in the final product.
Combing is mostly used for the production of high-quality fabrics, such as fine dress materials, high-end bed linens, and premium quality towels. Combed cotton, for instance, is known for its softness, strength, and durability, making it a popular choice for luxury bedding and high-quality shirts.
