Raw Materials For Making Coats and Jackets: A Brief Overview

A coat is a garment worn by both men and women for warmth or fashion. Coats typically have long sleeves and are open at the front, fastening down the length of the body. Jackets are more lightly constructed garments worn by men and women and usually have shorter sleeves. The first coats were made of animal skins, dating back to the Stone Age. By the Middle Ages, coats were made of woollen cloth and were often lined with fur. 

In the 19th century, coats were made of woollen cloth, often black or dark. Today, coats and jackets are made from various materials, including leather, denim, and synthetic fibres. They come in various colours and styles, from casual to formal.

Did you know? Manufacturers use raw materials to produce finished products, which in turn may be sent directly to the retailer, or, less often, to the consumer.

Overview On Raw Materials

Businesses buy and sell raw materials in the factor market because raw materials are factors of production. Raw materials are substances primarily used in the production or manufacturing of goods. Reliable and unhindered access to certain raw materials is a growing concern within the EU and across the globe.

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Types Of Raw Materials

Various raw materials for jackets and coats are mentioned below:

1. Lining Fabrics

The type of lining used in a coat or jacket can significantly affect how the garment looks and feels. Here are some of the most popular types of lining fabrics used in making coats and jackets:

• Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is strong and durable. It is often used in cheaper coats and jackets as it is less expensive than other lining fabrics. Polyester can be slippery, so it is not the best choice for a garment that you want to stay in place.
• Acetate: Acetate is a synthetic fabric that is made from cellulose. It is smooth and soft, making it a popular choice for lining garments. Acetate is also less likely to wrinkle than polyester.
• Silk: Silk is a luxurious and natural fabric often used to line high-end coats and jackets. Silk is smooth and soft, making it very comfortable to wear. However, silk is also a delicate fabric and can be damaged easily.
• Cotton: Cotton is a natural fabric that is breathable and comfortable to wear. It is often used to line coats and jackets that are meant to be worn in warmer weather. Cotton can be a bit stiff, so it is not the best choice for a garment you want to drape well.
• Linen: Linen is a natural fabric that is made from flax. It is strong and durable, making it a good choice for a coat or jacket with a lot of wear. Linen is also breathable and comfortable to wear. However, linen can be a bit wrinkly, so it is not the best choice for a garment that you want to look neat.
• Wool: Wool is a natural fabric that is warm and durable. It is often used to line coats and jackets that will be worn in colder weather. Wool is also breathable and comfortable to wear. However, wool can be a bit itchy, so it is not the best choice for a garment you want to wear next to your skin.

2. Shell Fabrics

There are a variety of shell fabrics used in making coats and jackets. The most common shell fabric is wool. Wool is a natural fibre that is durable and insulating. It is often used in winter coats and jackets because it helps to keep the wearer warm. Other shell fabrics in coats and jackets include cotton, linen, and synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon.

When selecting a shell fabric for a coat or jacket, it is important to consider the intended use. Some shell fabrics are better suited for casual wear, while others are more appropriate for formal or dressy occasions. Solid colours are versatile and can be easily paired with other garments, while bold patterns can make a statement.

3. Shoulder Pad

Shoulder pads are used in making coats and jackets to give the garment extra structure and shape. They can be made from various materials, including foam, fabric, or recycled plastic bottles. The pads are sewn into the garment at the shoulder seams and can be removable or permanent.

Shoulder pads were first popularized in the 1920s as women began to adopt a more masculine style of dress. The pads helped to accentuate the broad shoulders that were in fashion at the time. 

Today, shoulder pads are still used in many coats and jackets, especially those with a more structured look. They can help to create a slimming effect and can also be used to add definition to the shoulders. Some people find shoulder pads uncomfortable, while others find them essential for a well-fitting garment.

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4. Interlinings (Fusible interlining)

Fusible interlining is used to reinforce the fabric and add structure to garments. It is usually made from a woven or non-woven fabric coated with a heat-activated adhesive. When fused to the wrong side of a fabric, the interlining becomes invisible but adds body and stiffness. It is often used in the construction of coats and jackets, where it can provide a warm, insulating layer.

Interlining is available in various weights, depending on the desired effect. The interlining can be fused to the fabric using an iron or a steam press.

When selecting an interlining, choosing one compatible with the garment's fabric is important. Some interlinings can be quite stiff and may not be suitable for delicate fabrics. It is also important to test the interlining on a scrap of fabric before using it on the garment to ensure that the adhesive is strong enough and that the two fabrics fuse nicely.

5. Zippers

Zippers are often used in making coats and jackets. They are fasteners that can be used to close or open a garment. Zippers come in a variety of sizes, colours, and styles. Some common types of zippers include metal, plastic, and invisible. Metal zippers are the most durable and are often used in outerwear. Plastic zippers are less durable but are often used in lighter garments. Invisible zippers are used when a garment needs to look seamless.

When sewing a zipper into a coat or jacket, choosing the right size and type of zipper is important. The zipper should be the same colour as the garment or a complementary colour. It is also important to ensure that the zipper is the correct length. 

The most common type of zipper for a coat or jacket is a metal zipper. Metal zippers are available in various sizes, colours, and styles. The size of the zipper will depend on the size of the garment. The zipper's colour should match the garment's colour or be a complementary colour. The style of the zipper will depend on the style of the garment. A zipper can be sewn into a garment by hand or by sewing machine.

6. Button

A coat or jacket button (also called a button-front or button-front fastener) is a button that secures the front of a coat or jacket. A coat or jacket button is typically made of metal, plastic, or wood and is fastened to the garment with a buttonhole or loop. The first coat or jacket button was probably made of bone or horn and was used to fasten a coat or jacket of animal skin. The ancient Egyptians probably used the first coat or jacket buttons.

Coat and jacket buttons are now made from various materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. They are available in various colours, sizes, and shapes. Coat and jacket buttons are often decorated with a logo, design, or monogram. They are also often used to show support for a cause or political candidate.

7. Stitching Threads

Threads used in making coats and jackets must be strong and durable, as the garments will see a lot of wear and tear. The most common type of thread used for this purpose is polyester, which is both strong and resistant to fraying. Other types of thread, such as nylon and cotton, can also be used, but they are not as durable as polyester and are more likely to break or fray over time. 

When choosing a thread for a coat or jacket, it is important to consider the fabric's weight and the type of stitching that will be used. Heavier fabrics require a stronger thread, while lighter fabrics can be sewn with a lighter thread. For decorative stitching, such as topstitching, a thread that contrasts with the fabric can be used to create a more striking look.

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Conclusion

Coats and Jackets today are made from a broad range of different raw materials. Traditional materials such as cotton, linen and leather are still sourced from plants and animals. But most clothes are more likely to be made of materials and chemicals derived from fossil fuel-based crude oil. Whether you're looking for warmth or style, a coat or jacket is a great way to add an extra layer to your outfit. With so many options, you're sure to find the perfect one for you.
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