General Dyeing and Finishing used in Upholstery:
Backing or Coating
A latex layer is applied to the back of the fabric with a squeegee. Various amounts (light, medium, or heavy) of latex can be applied depending on the looseness of the weave and the durability standards desired. The latex is applied as the fabric is held in place, or taut, with a tenter frame. The tenter uses small pins along the selvedge of the fabric to secure it.
Calendering
Used to add the shine to cotton prints in creating chintz, as well as adding luster and a softer hand to other woven fabrics. Fabric is passed between two drums, one metal, that apply extreme pressure and heat. Additional luster is achieved by pressing the face or topside of the fabric against the metal drum. Pressing the backside of the fabric against the metal drum derives a lower luster. Adjustments in heat and pressure will affect the end result.
Crypton
This is a finishing process that has been embraced by the contract furnishings industry making the fabric virtually stain proof. This many step process is highly used in hospitals, restaurants, and other high traffic areas.
Moiré Finish
A finish created by passing fabric between two rollers or drums that have non-matching grooves carved into them. When the fabric passes between the drums it is permanently engraved with a pattern that resembles a watermark.
Needle Punching
A finish applied when fabrics may not have enough structural stability, usually due to loose weaves or a low end or pick count. In this process barbed needles push fibers from the face of the fabric to the back of the fabric. Once the fibers are on the back surface, a latex coating is applied to hold the textile together, making it stronger and enhancing its performance.
Spray Coating
A latex coating is sprayed on the back of fabric to give the textile additional stability. This is applied without the use of a tenter frame but the fabric is kept in a relaxed state and not held taut or stretched by the framing.
Steam Setting
In this process fabrics are treated with hot steam rather than being submerged into liquid. The advantage of this method is the reduction in the amount of shrinkage that results from washing while yielding some of the soft look and hand of the wet process.
Washing
Washing is a method of submerging textiles in large vats of water. The exposure to water causes yarns to bloom or soften. While drying, the fabric may also shrink in both width and length. The loss of dimension may be an issue in that it reduces yield requiring more yardage to create products. The higher loft, softer hand and drape may offset the loss of size depending on the desired end result for the textile.