When blending fibers, what is often the desired outcome?

Blending fibers is a common practice in textile manufacturing, and the primary goal is often to enhance both the performance and appearance of the fabric. By combining different types of fibers, manufacturers can capitalize on the beneficial qualities of each fiber type. For example, a blend of cotton and polyester can yield a fabric that has the breathability and comfort of cotton, along with the durability and wrinkle resistance of polyester. This synergy often results in fabrics that not only perform better in terms of wear and care but also have improved aesthetic qualities such as texture and drape.

When considering the other outcomes, increased shrinkage is generally not a desired effect; instead, blends are often developed to minimize this issue. Avoiding color fading is more about dyeing techniques and fiber properties rather than the blending process itself, while reducing fabric weight may not be the primary objective when blending fibers. Therefore, enhancing performance and appearance stands out as the key reason behind fiber blending.