Slipperiness

Definition and Overview

Slipperiness is the property by which, due to low friction on the textile surface, contact surfaces such as textiles and underwear move smoothly. In linings, it is valued as a function that reduces catching between the outer fabric and lining, or between the lining and inner layers, making dressing and movement easier.

Slipperiness is not determined by the material alone; it is also affected by factors such as yarn type, weave structure, surface smoothness, finishing processes, and conditions such as humidity and static electricity. Even if the hand feel is smooth, the sensation can change depending on the outer fabric it is paired with and the wearing environment.

Parts Used and Their Role

Linings with slipperiness are used in jacket and coat body linings and sleeve linings, pant knee linings, and linings for skirts and dresses. In particular, in areas with frequent contact with the outer fabric and repeated bending and stretching, such as sleeves and knees, they affect ease of movement and ease of putting on and taking off.

In napped or uneven outer fabrics, brushed outer fabrics, and knits, insufficient lining slipperiness makes catching inside the garment more likely. However, even if slipperiness is improved, sticking may still occur in combinations prone to static electricity.

• Sleeve linings reduce resistance when putting your arm through a sleeve.
• Knee linings reduce friction against the outer fabric when sitting, standing, and walking.
• Body linings reduce friction with innerwear and affect the overall wearing comfort of the garment.

Materials and Types

Linings are made from cupro, polyester, rayon, acetate, and others. In general, woven fabrics with a smooth surface made from filament yarn are easier to achieve slipperiness with, and the feel and glide also vary depending on the weave and finish, such as taffeta, twill, and satin.

Stretch linings and knit linings are suitable for garments that require elasticity, but their surface feel and glide differ from woven linings. Even when high slipperiness is desired, moisture absorption and release, antistatic performance, durability, and sheerness should also be checked according to the intended use.

How to Choose and Points to Note

It is important to check the slip by layering the lining with the outer fabric that will be used. If the reverse side of the outer fabric is rough, resistance may still be felt even if the lining alone is smooth. In prototypes, check actual movements such as putting on and taking off, bending and stretching the arms and knees, and sitting.

For stretch outer fabrics or tight silhouettes, consider stretch linings that are less likely to hinder the stretch of the outer fabric. On the other hand, if only the lining stretches significantly, it can lead to seam waviness or lining sagging, so compatibility including elongation recovery rate must be checked.

For light-colored or sheer outer fabrics, also check the lining color, luster, and sheerness. Choosing a highly glossy lining for slipperiness may affect how it appears through the outer fabric. For products that require antistatic performance, evaluate sticking, including in dry conditions.

Sewing Considerations and Differences from Similar Terms

Highly slippery linings are prone to shifting during cutting and sewing, and may cause seam allowance creep, seam waviness, and puckering. Condition the fabric by relaxing it off the roll, and check stacking method during cutting, feed amount, presser foot pressure, and thread tension according to the fabric.

Slipperiness indicates the property of reduced friction during wear, and is different from seam slippage. Seam slippage is a term related to the phenomenon or performance in which yarns in a woven fabric slip or pull out from the seam area. Drape is the property by which a fabric hangs naturally; it may be related to slipperiness, but it does not mean the same thing.

Frequently Asked Questions