How to source good and consistent quality yarns

Yarn defects are irregularities in the yarn diameter that affect the quality of the fabric produced. There are various types of yarn faults that can occur during the yarn manufacturing process. Here are some common yarn faults:

1. Unevenness or irregularity: This is the variation in fiber distribution along the material, which results in mass per unit length variation. It is generally known as “irregularity” or “unevenness.” 
2. Imperfections: These are the extremes of variations, i.e., the thin places, thick places, and neps.
3. Objectionable yarn faults: These are faults larger than 100 per cent based on the mean yarn cross-section. Yarn defects have sizes from 100 per cent and larger and lengths of 1 mm and longer.

Types of yarn faults

These are mainly categorised into two types: frequently occurring faults and seldom occurring faults. Frequently occurring faults are faults occurring in the range of 10 to 5,000 times per 1,000 m of yarn. They include thick places, thin places, and neps . Seldom occurring faults include slubs, spun in fly, and long thin places

When it comes to yarn sourcing, there are a few common mistakes that should be avoided. Here are some of them:

1. Verify the supplier’s reputation: It’s important to research the supplier’s reputation before making a purchase. This includes checking their reviews, ratings, and feedback from other customers. You can also ask for references from the supplier and contact them to verify their experience with the supplier.

2. Consider the quality of the yarn: The quality of the yarn is crucial to the quality of the final product. It’s important to ensure that the yarn meets your requirements and specifications. You can request samples from the supplier to test the quality of the yarn before making a purchase .

3. Consider the price: While quality is important, it’s also important to consider the price of the yarn. You should compare prices from different suppliers to ensure that you’re getting a fair price for the quality of the yarn.

4. Consider the environmental impact: Yarn production can have a significant environmental impact. It’s important to consider the environmental impact of the yarn you’re purchasing and choose suppliers that prioritize sustainability.