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Fabric finishing is where performance properties are activated. The right finish transforms a basic knit into a high-performance textile. Mibein applies professional-grade finishes to all performance fabrics in our product range.
Why Finishing Matters
Raw fabric from the knitting machine has basic structural properties but lacks performance features. Finishing treatments add or enhance specific properties. The Wikipedia article on textile finishing explains the range of possible treatments. Quality finishes are durable, consistent, and rigorously tested.
1. Wicking Finish
Wicking finish is the most important performance finish for activewear: A hydrophilic chemical finish is applied to synthetic fibers (which are naturally hydrophobic/water-repelling). This makes the fiber surface attract moisture, enhancing capillary action that pulls sweat away from the body. Quality wicking finishes withstand 20-30 home launderings before performance begins to fade. Wicking finish adds approximately $0.10-0.30 per yard to fabric cost. Mibein applies durable wicking finishes to all moisture-wicking fabrics.
2. Anti-Pilling Finish
Pilling is the formation of small fiber balls on the fabric surface. Anti-pilling finishes reduce this through two methods: enzyme treatment that removes loose surface fibers, and resin coating that bonds fibers together, preventing them from migrating to the surface. The ASTM D4970 Martindale test measures pilling resistance, with ratings from 1 (severe pilling) to 5 (no pilling). Performance fabrics typically target rating 4 or higher.
3. Brushing Finish
Brushing is a mechanical finish that creates a raised fiber surface for softness and warmth. The fabric passes through rotating wire brushes that lift fibers to the surface. Brushed fabrics include fleece (brushed on both sides) and French terry (brushed on the face only, loops on the back). Brushing adds softness and insulation but can reduce wicking performance if not properly engineered.
4. Compacting Finish
Compacting (also called compressive shrinkage) controls fabric shrinkage. The fabric is mechanically compressed in the length direction, relaxing the yarns so they cannot shrink further during home laundering. A standard compacting finish reduces potential shrinkage from 5-8% to 1-2%. For garment brands, proper compacting is essential for consistent sizing across production runs. Mibein’s stretch fabrics receive controlled compacting for dimensional stability.
5. UV Protection Finish
| UPF Rating | % UV Blocked | Protection Level |
|---|---|---|
| UPF 15-24 | 93-95% | Good |
| UPF 25-39 | 96-97% | Very Good |
| UPF 40-50+ | 97-98%+ | Excellent |
UV protection finishes (UV absorbers) are applied during dyeing or finishing. They absorb UV radiation and convert it to harmless heat. Fabric construction also affects UPF: tighter knits and darker colors provide more natural UV protection. For outdoor and performance apparel, UPF 50+ is the standard.
Cost Impact of Finishes
Wicking finish: +$0.10-0.30/yard. Anti-pilling: +$0.05-0.15/yard. Brushing: +$0.08-0.20/yard. Compacting: +$0.05-0.12/yard. UV protection: +$0.10-0.25/yard. Combined finishes: +$0.30-0.80/yard. While finishes add cost, they can enable significantly higher garment pricing.
How to Choose Finishes
Define the garment’s end use. High-intensity activewear needs wicking + anti-pilling. Cold-weather fleece needs brushing. Outdoor apparel needs UV protection. Structured garments need compacting. Most performance fabrics benefit from a combination of 2-3 finishes. Work with an experienced fabric manufacturer to select the right finish combination for your application.
FAQ
What is the most important fabric finish for activewear?
Wicking finish is the most important for activewear. Without it, synthetic fabrics do not effectively move moisture away from the skin.
How long do fabric finishes last?
Quality wicking finishes last 20-30 washes. Mechanical finishes (brushing, compacting) last the life of the garment.
Can a fabric have multiple finishes?
Yes. Most performance fabrics combine 2-3 finishes. For example, wicking + anti-pilling + compacting is common for quality activewear.
Do finishes affect fabric cost?
Yes. Finishes add $0.05-0.30 each per yard. A fully finished performance fabric costs $0.30-0.80/yard more than unfinished.
Professionally Finished Performance Fabrics
Finished to perform, backed by testing. Mibein applies and tests all major performance finishes. Contact us for finished fabric samples and test reports.