A SCREENING TECHNIQUE FOR FABRIC HANDLE

An objective screening technique for fabric handle is presented. This method is based on the use of a simple device fitted to a tensile test ing machine, and measures the force generated while passing a fabric s pecimen through a ring. The method proved capable of detecting differe nces in fabric handle between comparable fabrics, as illustrated by st udies on shirting fabrics, and on fabrics with functional finishes. Th e results were validated by comparison with measurements of fabric mec hanical properties obtained from the KESF (Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabrics). The handle force measurement gives a summed single value result for fabric handle.