There are different types of silk of commercial value, obtained from different species of silkworms. These silkworms in turn feed on different food plants. Except mulberry, all other types of silk are considered as non-mulberry silks. Silk fabric has unique characteristics and uses which makes it the most precious and exquisite fabric. Here are some of the different types of silk fabrics.
Mulberry Silk
Mulberry silk is one of the most popular silk types produced from the silkworm, Bombyx Mori L, which solely feeds on mulberry leaves. The major mulberry silk producing states are Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Jammu & Kashmir. The greatest quantity of the professional silk is produced from mulberry silk.
Dupion Silk
Dupion silk is produced from two silkworms that spin a cocoon together which results in a strong double-thread silk. This silk features irregularity in thinness and rough yarn. Dupion silk is a lustrous fabric.
Tussar Silk
Tussar silk, also known as Kosa silk, is produced from Tussar silkworms that feed on juniper and oak leaves. This silk fabric type is difficult to dye and is available in its natural colour. It is very comfortable because of its light-weight and it doesn’t wrinkle easily which makes it an ideal choice for travelling.
Raw Silk or Noil Silk
Raw silk is a very versatile silk which is made from the short fibres left after carding and combing the fibres. It doesn’t shine like other silk fabrics and is off-white in colour. It is similar to cotton, but resists wrinkling and feels soft against the skin. This fabric just gets better after every wash.
Muga Silk
Muga silk fabric is golden yellow in colour and is mainly cultivated in Assam, India. It is produced from Antheraea assamensis which is a semi-domesticated silkworm which feeds on the leaves of Som and Soalu plants. It is highly valued product and is majorly used in making products like chaddars, sarees, etc.
Eri Silk
Eri silk is popularly called as Errandi silk or Endi silk. This fabric is creamy white in colour and is produced from the cocoons of Philosamia ricini which feeds on castor leaves.