Table linen: Suppliers raise capability via functional fabrics

Amid increasing demand, China suppliers of home textiles are extending the use of functional fabrics to table linen and drapery. The application of such materials was previously limited to bedding.

Fire resistance is among the most commonly featured functionality. The majority of models with this attribute have been post-treated with chemicals that resist burning. As such, the fabric may gradually lose its functional property with frequent use and washing. There are, however, several releases made of fire-retardant fibers. Unlike post-treated versions, these are said to have lifelong flame resistance.

In response to China’s fire control law launched in May 2009, more suppliers have been increasing output of the latter. Zibo Saite Textile Co. Ltd, a specialist in permanently fire-retardant bedding, recently developed a window curtain line boasting the same characteristic. Products are exported mainly to the US and the UK.

Aside from flame retardation, anti-bacterial and UV-resistant properties are major trends in the table linen and drapery industry. To this end, makers are utilizing bamboo fabric. The material kills 95 percent of microbes in 24 hours. It also blocks harmful sunlight, with an almost zero percent penetration rate for 200 to 400nm, the most hazardous wavelength band of UV rays. North America is the main market for bamboo-based models.

Many suppliers likewise offer water- and stain-resistant designs. Such products are generally coated with PVC. Taking functionality a level higher, some makers are treating drapery with nanosilver that resists electromagnetic radiation. Others have launched table linen with micronized particles of ceramic. In addition to being anti-bacterial, such designs generate anions and far infrared, which is said to improve health.

China makers offer an array of table linen in polyester, cotton and polyester-cotton blends. Companies are also using polyester-PVC as the base material to make models with better texture, rigidity and wrinkle resistance. CVC, rayon, silk and bast fiber are other types adopted.

The fabric may come in a density of 120 to 200gsm, of which 120 to 160gsm types are the most popular. It can be plain or yarn-dyed, with the latter costing 5 to 15 percent more than the plain version. In general, the darker the color, the more expensive the dye is.

In terms of pattern, jacquard dominates although embossed and printed designs are likewise popular. The major theme trends are Christmas, floral, leaf, fruit, checkered and stripes. Plain white and cream-colored models with lace are also produced in large numbers.

Handwork includes embroidery and tassels, with the former more commonly employed, especially on light-colored designs.

Some tablecloths also feature border trimmings such as embossing, crescent design, hemming and binding using fabric of a different color or motif. The first three can raise cost by up to $0.29 per sqm.

Square and oval designs typically measure 40x40 to 320x550cm. Round designs are 40 to 320cm in diameter.

Versions not more than 3sqm are priced below $3, while those up to 6sqm go for as much as $10.

Products are offered individually or in sets consisting of placemats and table runners, skirts and napkins. Some models, particularly those reaching $20, may include cushion and seat covers.

Pure polyester and T/C are the main fabrics adopted for China’s drapery. CVC, pure cotton, rayon, silk and bast fiber such as jute, flax and ramie are also used.

Models span from sheer, crisp and lightweight textiles, including organza, voile and taffeta, to heavy velvet and jacquard. Rod pocket, and grommet, tab and tie top are among the styles available.

The range expands further through various design methods. Besides simple dyeing and printing, embroidery, beading and patchwork are employed. Additionally, some companies decorate curtains with inlaid thread and paillettes.

While makers generally focus on models for bedrooms or living rooms, several suppliers also offer drapery for kitchen windows. The latter usually comes in animal, fruit and scattered flower motif, in contrast with the romantic and elegant style of versions suitable for other areas of the house.

Products can be marketed per piece or in sets of three, consisting of two curtains and a swag, or two swags and a valance. Typical low-end window curtains from China are made of locally sourced polyester, cotton or T/C. These are usually plain but may also be embroidered or trimmed with lace, or feature drawnwork. Designs can weigh up to 90gsm and are priced from $1 to $5 each.

Midrange models in polyester-cotton blends or silk with some lace trimming go for $5 to $10. They may also be embroidered or pleated. Weight can reach 120gsm.

Upscale releases come in luxurious fabric such as pure polyester or cotton, silk and chenille. Some do not crumple or shrink when washed. High-end models from Zibo Saite come in fire-retardant aramid fiber and UV-resistant bamboo fabric.

While window curtains and table linen are typically auxiliary lines to bedding makers in China, there are several specialists that offer a wider selection of upscale models, including designs suitable for hotels.

About 80 percent of the suppliers are either manufacturers and direct exporters or trading companies with production capability. In fact, most started out as export agents and later set up their own factories.

Fabric cutting, sewing, embroidery and quilting are usually done in-house, although a few small makers subcontract the last two processes. Midsize and large players typically have textile mills. Some are joint ventures with fabric suppliers.

Meanwhile, some trading companies without manufacturing facilities have machine investment in their partner factories.

Needle detectors are standard equipment in most plants. To ensure quality, suppliers send product samples to SGS and Intertek for colorfastness, fire resistance and nontoxicity testing. Some makers, including Qingdao Fuyuan Arts & Crafts Co. Ltd Sanda Home Textile and Zibo Huazhou Fagoting Co. Ltd, use materials that meet the Oeko-Tek Standard 100.

Shandong province, which boasts a long history in embroidery and drawnwork, is the main hub for table linen and drapery. Makers in the area thrive on a rich supply of cotton. Most manufacture fabric in-house and subcontract dyeing and printing.

A large number of window curtain makers are also located in Zhejiang. The province is strong in chemical fiber production. The majority of companies there are fabric plants that expanded into home textile manufacturing.

This article "Table linen: Suppliers raise capability via functional fabrics" is originally posted in Global Sources.

Legend International
New Plus Arts Co. Ltd
Shandong Alldohua International Trading Co Ltd
Zibo Huazhou Fagoting Co.,Ltd