Textile finishes

Finishes
Textile finishes applied after the colouring process generally fall into one of two general categories according to purpose or end result. These categories are standard, wet or chemical finishes and decorative or mechanical finishes. Let us take a look at the first category.

Standard, chemical or wet finishes augment the textile's durability or ability to perform in a given way. These finishes include antibacterial or antiseptic, anti-static, care-free, flame retardant, insulative, mothproof, soil and water repellent finishes.

Textile finishes

• Antibacterial or antiseptic finishes are typically applied in the form of bacteriostats -- chemicals that suppress mould and mildew and slow or prevent the rotting process. These finishes are important in health care settings.
• Anti-static finishes primarily are for carpeting and wall or furniture upholstery. There are two ways anti-static properties can be applied: by adding chemical inhibitors to the man-made fibre viscose solution, or as a topical application after the carpet or fabric is completed.

If added to the viscose, the anti-static finish will be durable. If applied topically then it is a soluble or non-durable finish. This finish is for personal comfort (to reduce shocks after walking across a carpet then touching the light switch, for example), and in office settings where computers or other delicate equipment would be protected against damage by reducing the potential static electricity.

Care-free finishes make a textile easier to care for. Bedding and other fabrics that are washed often and upholstery fabrics that receive much use can benefit from a wrinkle-resistant finish. Some wall and drapery fabrics and some upholstery textiles have a permanent wrinkle or pleated appearance. This effect may be accomplished by a permanent press finish. These are topical finishes that are heat-set or calendered into the fabric.