Special Weaving Methods

There is another method of producing 45° stitched fabrics by weaving a weft unidirectional fabric and then pulling the fiber on a special machine to introduce a 45° skew (Figure 21.35). The process does introduce a measure of crimp when the fiber is skewed, but heavy tows can be used, keeping costs down. A quadraxial lay-up could consist of ( 45°, 0°, 90°, —45°), where the 0° and 90° can be a conventional woven fabric used with the skewed 45° and —45° layers and after assembly, the three layers are then stitched together. The disadvantage is that the woven layer will introduce a measure of crimp. 

Most textiles are now produced in factories, with highly specialized power looms, but many of the finest velvets, brocades, and table linens are still made by hand. Lace is made by interlocking threads together independently, using a backing and any of the methods described above, to create a fine fabric with open holes in the work. Lace can be made by hand or machine. The weaving of carpet and rugs is a special branch of the textile industry. 

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