ALM works in partnership with a large number of suppliers in France, Europe, and Asia. We offer a range of over 1500 fabric references with a wide variety of compositions. All are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified (analyzed for over 300 substances).
Our products are therefore manufactured using a wide selection of raw materials, weaves, weights, and finishes.
Main Fabrics
The choice of fabrics will depend on the final use of the items offered by ALM (clothing, linens, etc.). This is why we offer both woven fabrics (twill or plain weave) and knitted fabrics (weft or warp knit).
They are characterized in particular by their:
- Blend (polycotton, predominantly cotton, predominantly polyester, etc.),
- Yarn type (ring/ring, ring/open-end, etc.)
- Weave (twill, plain weave, knit, etc.)
- Weight/m² (180g/m², 195g/m², 210g/m², 245g/m², etc.)
- Finishes (mechanical: sanforizing, brushing, sanding, heat setting, etc.),
- Treatments (anti-crease, water-repellent, etc.)...
Example of weaving: twill weave
This fabric is made by the perpendicular interlacing of two sets of threads:
- in the longitudinal direction: the warp
- in the transverse direction: the weft
A compromise between satin and plain weave, it is essential to apply a special finish to prevent it from deforming along its diagonal.
ALM prefers a composition of 65% Polyester and 35% Cotton in 210 g/m².
- Good resistance and durability.
- Gives the product a diagonally striped appearance.
Main names: gabardine, denim
Example of weaving: plain weave (or tabby weave)
ALM prefers a 50% Cotton 50% Polyester composition in 180 g/m2.
- Resistant to wear: strong, uniform, stiff…
- Some creasing may occur with use.
Example of knitting: weft knit fabric
This fabric is made by interlacing a loop of yarn, called a stitch, from bottom to top.
ALM prefers a 50% Cotton 50% Polyester composition in 240 g/m2.
Applications:
- T-shirts, polo shirts, sweatshirts, fleece, pullovers, jackets, underwear and outerwear
- Technical use: automotive, transport, medical, composite sectors...
Advantages:
- Ease of processing
- Excellent suitability for shaped knitting: seamless and full garment knitting
Main Raw Materials
The choice of raw materials will depend on the intended use of the items offered by ALM (comfort, durability, etc.). This is why we offer items made of polycotton, predominantly cotton, predominantly polyester, or other materials.
The fabric can be composed of fibers of natural origin (derived from plants or wood), synthetic fibers (derived from petroleum), or recycled fibers (resulting from the defibration of end-of-life clothing).
Example of natural fibers from plants: cotton
Cotton fibers come from the cotton flower, which is a small ball 5 to 6 cm in diameter. The flowers are picked, baled, and then transported to processing facilities.
Cotton fibers are short, and their color varies depending on their origin (from yellowish to whitish).
Advantages:
- The fabrics have good durability and a pleasant feel.
- They absorb water easily (after treatment), but have low air permeability (poor insulating quality).
Disadvantages:
- Cotton items dry slowly and are easily flammable.
- They wrinkle easily and are difficult to iron, requiring ironing after washing.
Example of fabric: Prorime (50% Cotton 50% Polyester Canvas 175g/m2)
Example of natural fibers derived from wood: lyocell
Lyocell is obtained by spinning a wood pulp solution previously dissolved in a solvent. Environmentally friendly.
The fibers are white and lustrous.
Advantages:
- The colors obtained are deep and intense.
- The articles do not show a loss of strength when wet and have better durability.
Disadvantages:
- Tendency to fibrillate on the surface, causing an uneven, fuzzy appearance when this is not desired.
Example of fabric: Oxford (50% Lyocell 50% Polyester Twill 195g/m2)
Example of synthetic fiber: polyester
Made from products extracted from petroleum.
The resulting fibers can be matte, semi-matte, or glossy. The surface is initially smooth. Crimping can be achieved through texturing.
Advantages:
- Polyester is strong and wrinkle-resistant.
- Items are easy to care for and dry quickly. No shrinkage.
Disadvantages:
- Polyester does not absorb moisture, resulting in an unpleasant clammy feeling.
Example of fabric: KG317 (65% Polyester 35% Cotton Twill 215g/m2)