Mackinaw is a type of heavy and durable woolen fabric that is widely used in the textile industry. It is known for its excellent insulation properties, making it a popular choice for outerwear and cold-weather garments. In this article, we will explore the meaning, history, types, handling tips, and top international users or manufacturers of Mackinaw fabric.
Mackinaw fabric gets its name from the Mackinac Island in Michigan, USA. It was initially developed in the late 18th century as a rugged and warm fabric suitable for the harsh winter conditions of the Great Lakes region. The fabric is traditionally made from 100% virgin wool, known for its insulating properties and durability.
The history of Mackinaw fabric can be traced back to the early fur trade era in North America when French-Canadian and Native American traders started using heavy woolen blankets for warmth during their expeditions. The fabric gained popularity among fur trappers, lumberjacks, and outdoor workers in the Great Lakes region due to its exceptional warmth and durability in extreme weather conditions.
During the 19th century, the Mackinaw fabric gained recognition beyond the local market and became a staple material for winter garments. It became synonymous with rugged outdoor clothing, including jackets, coats, pants, and shirts. The traditional red and black plaid pattern became iconic and is still associated with Mackinaw fabric today.
There are different types of Mackinaw fabric available, each with its own unique characteristics:
Tips in Handling Mackinaw Fabric
To ensure the longevity and quality of Mackinaw fabric garments, consider the following handling tips:
Top International Users and Manufacturers
Mackinaw fabric is still highly regarded and used by various international users and manufacturers. Here are some notable examples:
Mackinaw fabric, with its rich history and exceptional insulation properties, continues to be a sought-after material for cold-weather garments. The traditional and modern variations of Mackinaw fabric provide warmth, durability, and style, making it a favorite choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate high-quality textiles. With top international users and manufacturers like Filson, Pendleton, and Woolrich, Mackinaw fabric retains its position as a symbol of ruggedness and functionality in the textile industry.
Interfacing is a common term for a variety of materials used on the unseen or "wrong" side of fabrics in sewing. Interfacings can be used to stiffen or add body to fabric, such as the interfacing...
Read about InterfacingGalatea is a type of fabric that is commonly used in clothing and home furnishings. It is a heavyweight, plain weave cotton fabric that is characterized by its high-quality texture, durability, and...
Read about GalateaA Yarn Formed From An Elastomer., Note 1: Elastomeric Yarn May Either Be Incorporated Into Fabric In The Bare State Or Wrapped With Relatively Inextensible Fibres. Wrapping Is Done By Covering (see...
Read about Elastomeric YarnA garment length knitting machine is a specialized type of knitting machine used in the textile industry to produce seamless garments of various lengths. Unlike traditional knitting machines that...
Read about Garment Length Knitting MachineA brassiere or bra is an item of women's underwear consisting of two cups totally or partially covering the breasts for support and modesty. In addition to the connection of the cups it has usually...
Read about BrassiereA particular form of pressure mark (q.v.) in a fabric, and that is produced by the relief print-off of defects such as slubs or seams joining lengths of fabric, under excessive rolling tension or by...
Read about Seam MarkA nonwoven fabric in which the fibres are held together by a bonding material. This may be an adhesive or a bonding fibre with a low melting point. Alternatively, the material may be held together by...
Read about Bonded Fabrica) To allow textile materials (raw materials, fibres, slivers, yarns and fabrics) to come to hygroscopic equilibrium with the surrounding atmosphere, or with the standard atmosphere for testing...
Read about Condition (v)