A special synthetic fabric called lacquer: how it is produced and where it is used?

A special kind of synthetic material with a mirror-like sheen is called lacquer fabric. This striking fabric is frequently linked to high fashion, striking visual effects, and bold designs. Its glossy, smooth surface makes it a popular option for a variety of accessories and apparel pieces.

A layer of polyurethane is applied to a base material, typically polyester or another synthetic fiber, in order to produce lacquer fabric. The fabric gets its unique glossy look and strong, waterproof properties from this process. The end product is a fabric that is gorgeous to look at and has useful properties like moisture resistance and ease of cleaning.

In the fashion industry, lacquer fabric is frequently used, especially when making statement jackets, pants, and skirts. It’s also well-liked in the costume and stagewear industries, where its reflective surface can give shows a dramatic touch. Beyond apparel, lacquer fabric can be found in accessories like belts, purses, and shoes, where its eye-catching appearance can improve the overall style.

Type and general description

Lacquer, derived from the French word laquee, which means shiny and varnished, is a synthetic material that resembles extremely soft and thin patent leather. It is composed of a plain or twill woven fabric base (typically composed of nylon threads or nylon blended with viscose) onto which a pressure-sensitive layer of latex, polyamide, polyurethane, or other polymer resins is applied.

The strength of the material increases with the pressure at which the film is pressed into the fabric base.

Elastic, dense, and subtle, lacquer fabric typically has a brilliant, embossed front side, though it also occasionally has an embossed, matte surface. Although plain dyed fabrics are more common, varnish can occasionally be applied with a printed pattern.

Ideally, the material can be dyed any color. However, vivid hues and "metallic" coloring are the most sought-after choices for this textile.

The top layer of polymer materials can be made to have a dull matte shine and the metal-like iridescence known as the "degrade" effect—a subtle merging of light and dark shades—by mixing bismuth salts or titanium dioxide with the polymer materials.

China, Korea, and Italy are the top three producers of varnish worldwide.

History of origin

Lacque is a relatively new substance. Originally created in France in the middle of the 20th century, thus the name.

Composition and properties of the fabric

Varnish fabric’s composition differs depending on the type of fiber. These could be:

• Synthetic nylon or nylon fibers with increased density.
• Synthetic fibers mixed with viscose threads.
• Synthetic fibers at the base, mixed with cotton or woolen threads.

The material has a unique density and strength due to the synthetic weave of the varnish base, and the polyester resin coating ensures waterproofness.

Types of fabric

Varnish is usually categorized using two indicators.

Firstly, the composition of the textile basis, which can be:

• Kapronova.
• Semi-kapronova.
• Viscose.
• Knitted.

Secondly, according to the type of applied on the textile basis of the coating, which can be:

• Polyamide.
• Latex.
• Consisting of special impregnations.

Pros and cons of fabric

Virtues of varnish:

• Strength and wear resistance.
• Softness.
• Ease.
• Elasticity.
• Resistance to deformations (the material does not break, does not sit down, its edges do not crumble).
• The wealth of the color scheme.
• Water resistance.
• Pleshin resistance.
• Ease of care (things from material with varnish are often enough wipe with a damp sponge).
• Bright and impressive appearance.
• Affordable price.

Disadvantages of the material:

• Poor thermal insulation. Like any synthetic material, lacquer lets in little air and creates a greenhouse effect at high temperatures, so this fabric is not recommended for sewing summer clothes.
• Special requirements for the quality of the coating. If the quality of the top film is low, it can burst and peel off.
• The need to treat the coating carefully. If scratches appear on it, it will be impossible to get rid of them.
• Color change when ironing, which is why you cannot use an iron.
• Difficulty of working with the material at home. For sewing, you need a special sewing machine with a very thin and sharp needle and an overlock foot made of plastic, since a metal one will scratch the material.
• Noticeable electrification.

A distinctive synthetic fabric with a glossy finish and longevity is called lacquer. It is created using a unique coating technique that gives it a glossy, reflective surface, which makes it well-liked in the fashion world for accessories, shoes, and jackets. This material is preferred for both practical and fashionable applications due to its appealing appearance as well as its water resistance and ease of cleaning.

Standards and norms in manufacturing

GOST 28486-90 regulates the manufacturing, transportation, and storage of lacquer-type fabrics. These materials are made of synthetic threads on both the warp and weft and are used to make jackets, raincoats, and other water-repellent apparel.

In particular, the state standard specifies that instruments manufactured in Hungary, like FF-13, as well as instruments from the French company Sert are used to assess the degree of waterproofness of a fabric. For testing, a concentration of 2.5 g/dm for soap solutions or 2.0 g/dm for synthetic detergent solutions is utilized.

A sample of the material is left unfolded for a full day prior to testing, and then it is put through two tests: one to determine its water resistance prior to washing and another to determine its water resistance following three washes.

By ironing the fabric, the color fastness to heat is tested:

• Heated to 75-115 degrees – for polyamide fibers and with the addition of polyester threads.
• Heated to 105-155 degrees – for polyester threads.

Lacquer fabric is distinguished by its glossy, shiny finish, which gives it a distinctive look. A unique coating process used in its manufacture improves its durability while preserving its sleek appearance. Because of this, lacquer fabric is a preferred option in the fashion industry, particularly for producing eye-catching and fashionable apparel and accessories.

Beyond style, lacquer fabric can be used for a variety of practical purposes due to its water resistance and ease of cleaning. Its adaptability across various industries, from raincoats to decorative items, demonstrates that it’s not just about aesthetics but also functionality.

Lacquer fabric is a valuable material in modern design because it combines style and practicality, making it suitable for both high fashion and everyday use. Its capacity to blend durability and beauty guarantees that it will always be a popular option for both consumers and designers.

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