Finishing encompasses all the processes applied to woven fabric after it leaves the loom, transforming raw greige goods into consumer-ready textiles.
Common Finishing Processes
Preparation: - Scouring (cleaning) - Bleaching (whitening) - Mercerisation (strengthening, lustre)
Colouration: - Dyeing - Printing
Mechanical: - Calendering (smoothing) - Sanforising (shrinkage control) - Brushing/napping (softening) - Shearing (for velour)
Chemical: - Softening agents - Antimicrobial treatments - Water repellent (not for towels) - Flame retardant (institutional)
Why Finishing Matters
Finishing determines: - Final appearance - Hand feel (softness) - Performance characteristics - Durability - Colour depth
The same greige fabric can become very different products depending on finishing.
Quality Considerations
Good finishing: - Doesn't damage fibres - Achieves consistent results - Uses appropriate chemicals - Properly removes residues
Poor finishing can leave towels stiff, prone to issues, or with chemical residues.
Factory Finishes
New towels have finishing residues that affect initial absorbency. Pre-washing removes these.
Related Terms
- Greige - Unfinished fabric
- Mercerisation - Specific finish
- Sanforisation - Shrinkage control