Different fabrics are part of our everyday life and embody a complex set of histories, inviting a range of speculations about their wider cultural meaning and social interpretation. If you take a quick look aroundm, you will see that textiles are one of the most common features of daily life.

It is estimated that more than 1 million tonnes of textiles are thrown away every year, with most of this coming from household sources. The majority of post-consumer textiles are currently collected by charities like the Salvation Army and Oxfam.

Textiles can be made in various strengths and degrees of durability, from the finest gossamer to the sturdiest canvas. While most textiles are now produced in factories on highly specialized power looms, many of the finest velvets, brocades, and table linens are still made by hand.

Silk

Satin

Fleece