Textiles, such as cotton and linen, are used as a substrate for art, particularly painting. The quality and strength of the textile fiber, composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, and other substances, affect the durability and performance of the artwork. Cotton fibers, for example, contain approximately 70% crystalline regions, making them stronger and more resistant to chemical and biological attack, but also more prone to degradation in humid conditions (Source ID: 6).
The weaving process, including warp and weft fibers, and the addition of lubricants and sizing, can impact the texture and stability of the fabric (Source ID: 1, 2). Artists should be aware of these factors when selecting and preparing their substrate for painting.
Golden Artist Colors provides information and products to support artists working with textiles, including guidelines for preparing and using cotton and other fabrics as a painting surface (Source ID: 4, 8). The company also offers materials, such as the GAC 900 Heat-set Fabric Painting Medium, specifically designed for wearable fabrics (Source ID: 9).
Overall, understanding the properties and behavior of textiles is crucial for artists working with these materials to achieve their desired effects and ensure the longevity of their artwork.