Jeans Pai Nai, Spotlight on Jeans Fashion

Jeans, what to look for if we buy them? Irregular yarns, spinning techniques

New processes are being developed to achieve the same effect at lower costs. Sandblasting is a process which projects particles at denim fabric under controlled pressure settings. The treatment is more mechanical and abrasive than chemical. Another approach uses enzymes which break down cotton fibers used in denim, causing the highly twisted yarns to release indigo dye and soften.

Regardless of the method used to produce distressed denim, durability is decreased and the life of the garment shortened. Excessive bleaching and abrading weaken fibers and may cause holes to form and seams to break after a few wearings. It is estimated that "acid wash" processing is equal to 25 home launderings. Shrinkage becomes less of a problem in the purchased garment, however, since the "acid wash" or other processes also pre-shrink the fabric.

Several products or kits are now available to consumers who want to "distress" their own denim fabric. All systems use some type of mild bleaching action or mechanical abraders such as a pumice stone for rubbing, or emery boards. These processes may not be as harsh as commercial treatments, but still lower the garment's durability and wear life.

Denim producers also use special or irregular yarns and spinning techniques to give denim a cleaner appearance and softer, loftier hand than traditional denims. Some result in an "antique" look without distressed edges. Or, a variety of finishes, such as sandblasting and stonewashes, are used to enhance the antique or worn looks.