Hello Thelama
Thank-you for your question. Knowing this is a vast area, I have
taken some time to fully research your question. I have attempted to
identify 5-10 easily available waterproof and absorbant fabrics for
your report and gathered relevant information on each for you. Rather
than regurgitate information from the manufacturers websites I have
given you direct links, where applicable, this allows you to contact
the manufacturers directly should you have any questions on their
products.
As the types of fabrics is nearly endless I have restricted my list to
the ones below, there are definitely alternatives should none of these
fit your needs.
It is also very difficult to rank the materials on their cost as this
depends on such a large number of variables (such as color, weight of
fabric, amount ordered etc). Where possible I have attempted to get
an average price per yard or metre of fabric.
Waterproof Fabrics
==================
1) "Sunbrella", "Diklon", "Para" are 100% solution dyed acrylic
fabrics and are the materials used to make boat canvases and awnings.
Sunbrella is the the number 1 solution dyed fabric in the USA and
comes in a vast range of styles and options:
http://www.fabricscentral.com/acrylic_fabric.html
http://www.fabricscentral.com/firesist_info.html
http://www.fabricscentral.com/furniture.html
http://www.awning-net.com/dicksfab2000.html
http://www.sunbrella.com/usa/
2) 1000 Denier Cordura - $26 per metre
This is one of the strongest fabrics on the market and is used for
backpacks, sports bags and strengthening patches. It is 100% nylon.
http://www.cordura.com/
3) Rainslick - $25 per metre
An easy to sew fabric with a knitted back.
4) Weatherguard - $15 per metre
This is a matt finish fabric that is perfect for low activity outerwear garments.
5) Extreme, Hydroflex, Ultrex - $25 per metre
These are waterproof, windproof, breathable laminated fabrics.
6) West Coast Cloth/Snowboard - $15 per metre
These are both 65% polyester, 35% cotton materials which are probably
classed more as water-repellent than waterproof.
7) Nylon-backed fabrics - $8 per metre
http://www.fabricuk.com/fabrics.php?categ=23
8) Mardi-Gras Tent Fabric
If you require a highly durable fabric this is one of the premium
fabrics available.
http://fabricscentral.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=Mardigra
9) Gore-tex and Windstopper fabrics
Some of the premium outdoor materials that are both breathable and waterproof.
http://gore-tex.com/
Absorbant materials
===================
For this list I have left it simple as the list is endless in this
category. For a good absorbant material you only need to think of the
materials we use in every day life to dry things, things such as
towels and dish-cloths come to mind. Almost any natural fiber is
absorbant and can be treated to be made waterproof with a plastic
coating or spray.
All of the fabrics in this list can be obtained easily for less than
$15 per metre but their exact pricing again depends on the weight of
the fabric and the quantity ordered. All are easily foldable and
durable as to your requirements.
1) Toweling
2) Terry Cloth
3) Cotton
4) Flannel
5) Linen
6) Calico
7) Satin
8) Fleece
9) Wool
I would urge you to visit each of the sites below which detail some of
the fabrics I have mentioned in my answer above.
Stores used for price guidance:
http://www.fabrics-store.com
http://www.sundroptextiles.com
http://fabricscentral.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=Clear_Vinyl
http://www.online-fabrics.co.uk/shop/browse/category_id/Specials
http://www.sewsweetfabrics.com/FabricsDepartment.html
http://www.justmakeit.com/wholesale/waterproof/
Some useful links regarding different fabric types:
http://www.sundroptextiles.com/fabrics/wnbfabrics.htm
http://www.sundroptextiles.com/fabrics/wpbfabrics.htm
http://www.sundroptextiles.com/fabrics/wrwfabrics.htm
http://www.sundroptextiles.com/fabrics/syntheticfleece.htm
http://www.sundroptextiles.com/fabrics/activewear.htm
http://www.thomasregisterdirectory.com/fabrics/coated_fabrics_0039842_1.html
http://www.carefreeofcolorado.com/FabricVinyl.html
I hope this answer enables you to choose the fabric you require and
gives you some guidance as to where to start looking. If you have any
questions on this subject please ask for clarification and I will do
my best to help. |
