All Categories

- Knowledge of silk

Home >  Blogs >  Knowledge of silk

What is Sand-Washed Silk Fabric?

2024.07.14

                                               What is Sand-Washed Silk Fabric?

  •          Sand washing is a processing method for silk that involves three steps: sanding, washing, and frosting. The frosting step enhances the fabric's softness and colorfastness, creating a white frost-like appearance on the surface that becomes more pronounced with use and washing.
  • Based on the effect, sand washing can be categorized into light, medium, and heavy sand washing.
  •          Sand washing is similar to regular washing but involves different additives, usually alkaline or oxidizing agents, along with some softening agents. The alkaline agents are used to break down the fabric’s surface structure, making the originally stiff fibers softer due to the intense erosion. This process results in a softer overall fabric with a slight nap and a subtle white haze.
  •         After sand washing, the fabric becomes soft and fuzzy with a matte finish, giving an illusion of increased thickness. However, this process can also make the fabric prone to tearing, especially with thinner materials. Therefore, it is generally not recommended to sand wash lightweight fabrics. For a sand-washed silk look, it is advisable to use silk with a weight of 19 momme or more.
  •          Sand-washed silk has a vintage, worn-in look, making it popular among designers who favor a retro aesthetic.

If you are interested in sand-washed silk, contact us for more information and samples.