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Posted by Sara on June 7, 2007, 3:23 am
AK&DStrohl (strohls@enter.net) writes:
> >I have found some wick-away lycra for the top.
> I am also trying to make wick-away sports tops and shorts, close fitting to
> wear in place of regular underwear (I perspire profusely).
> I haven't made any before and I'm not 100% sure of the fabrics that are
> used.
> I bought what was billed as a wick-away fabric but you wouldn't want to use
> this fabric alone, teeny slits. And which side goes against the skin?
> Most sports bras have a smooth exterior at least, but what is this made of.
> My guess from what I've read is that it is a cotton/lycra blend. I hope so,
> I just bought 15 yds in 3 colors.
>
> > what to use for the shorts, and especially the liner for the shorts (like
> > men's swim trunks).
> Does this need any other liner? My first thought would be yes, but again
> what specific fabric. Cotton diaper fabric?
>
> > I would greatly appreciate any tips from anyone who has worked with this
> > fabric before and/or made work-out clothing.
> > Kirsten
>
> I'm with you, more information is needed.
> AK in PA
Retail wicking gear is polyester (brand name varies by manufacturer),
or poly/spandex (same), no cotton. It comes in a variety of weaves and
finishes many of which don't have that slick polyester hand and feel if
not exactly cotton-y maybe sort of cotton-blend-y or rayon-y.
In retail athletic shorts the liner is a knit polyester with a soft
hand. This is what retail wicking underwear is made of as well. I think
adding a layer of cotton would defeat the idea of using the wicking
fibers-- the cotton holds moisture a lot longer than the wicking fibers
do.
For sources for wicking fabrics you might try:
Seattle Fabrics. http://www.seattlefabrics.com/stretch.html#Wicking%
20Lycras .
Quest Outfitters. http://www.questoutfitters.com/wicking_fabrics.htm .
Nice summaries of the differences between the different options.
The Rain Shed. The only ones with Coolmax (first and best known of the
wicking fibers, but lesser names work well too), AFAICT.
http://www.therainshed.com/ .
All of these have samples/swatches available.
HTH, and apologies if you knew this stuff already.
-Sara the lurker
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