On-loom finishing of handloom products — An innovative &

Abstract

172-177In big sectors, finishing of textiles is not a matter of problem as the machines for this purpose can be fed with long length of fabrics. But the usual finishing techniques practiced in mill sectors can not be adopted in handloom sectors, because the products here are in the form of piece goods. In Fulia, Shantipur, Nabadweep and some other reputed handloom sectors of West Bengal, the weavers are found to apply size paste made of sago or starch mainly on saris and silk thans by hand on-looms (while weaving) only. But door curtains, towels, bed covers and many other handloom products are sold in the market without any finish. Many finishing can be developed on handloom products also by applying hand spraying system by the use of different softeners, stiffeners, glazers, etc. as required by the end-users, to make them more beautiful, attractive, lustrous and market competitive. In the paper, an innovative and indigenous approach has been made on trial basis for on-loom application of finish on handloom goods, and it has been proved by doing some simple testing that this indigenous approach is both technically and economically feasible not only for piece goods, but also for bulk application provided some other accessories like cottage level finishing chamber/steamer, ceiling fan, drier, etc. can be arranged. The products requiring this type of finishing treatments should not be hot pressed or ironed in any stage, otherwise the inherent fullness of the handloom goods will be adversely affected