WEEK 9 Floorcoverings

 WEEKLY SUMMARY 

In this week's readings and learning, we went through an overview of the different kinds of floor coverings available for use in residential and commercial settings to enhance the interior of the building's structure and environment. In extensive work done through chapters 20 and 21, we got to see the complete process of which floor coverings are selected, instailed, and  how they provide various degrees of improvement to the space. 

When looking through the various kinds of floor coverings available, it is important to understand that the different types of fiber materials used in the making of it. Each fiber has its own unique list of attributes that go into positive reasonings for implementing them into floor coverings. Since what they are being used for will be underfoot, it is important for the particular fibers to have traits of dimensional stability, and high levels of durability and crush resistance. They also must be comfortable as well, since many of the applications of floor coverings are used for texturedized carpeting. Fibers that are popular for the construction include wool, cotton, polyester, olefin, and nylon. The two major fibers typically seen in the construction of these floor coverings are nylon and olefin (polypropylene). Much of today’s floor covering material has transitioned over to using more synthetically manufactured materials rather than natural, even in cases of highly desired wool products.  The way wool is used in soft carpets and rugs has changed as a result of several variables. The growing price of wool is one important aspect, which has caused carpet makers to look for less expensive alternatives. Customers want eco-friendly carpets and rugs that are free of synthetic components, which is why they are becoming more interested in materials that can replace wool. But people still want to utilize wool in sophisticated and opulent carpets and rugs since it's natural, cozy, and long-lasting.

When the fibers are selected to be used in the desired floor coverings, it is important to note that they must be spun in order to fulfill their proper purpose. About 40% of the textile industry's market is made up of spun yarns. These yarns have fewer problems with fibers sticking out, shedding, and pilling because they use longer filaments and staples, making them more resilient. BCF yarns, also known as bulk continuous yarns, generate fewer unwanted pills on fabric because most of these filaments' loose ends are concealed within the yarn. These yarns frequently have the look and feel of wool when coupled with heather color patterns.

When selecting and installing soft flooring for a space it is important to keep in mind the necessity to have floor coverings that are meant for those with restricted mobility. For the correct selections to happen it is crucial to take into account the use of short, dense fibers in the flooring should wheelchairs be utilized. In order to prevent tearing, it must be ensured that the flooring is securely attached to the floor so there is no unevenness within the surface. It is also key to take into account how securely the edges grip the floor in order to prevent slippage. Using carpet in these situations has the benefit of providing some cushioning to lessen the impact of inadvertent falls and also helping to control noise. But those with disabilities are not the only important factor to consider when making the right selections of flooring within a space. Life-cycle costing is vital in the process to review and examine the expenses associated with a textile product across its entire life cycle, including manufacture, maintenance, and disposal. This technique assists manufacturers in making more educated decisions about available materials, production methods, and design options in order to reduce overall costs and environmental impacts while maintaining product quality and sustainability.

RESEARCH INITIATIVE - African Weaving Techniques

For this weeks research initiative  I decided to explore societies outside our typical sphere of influence in the world of academia and take a closer look into what traditional techniques where and still are used for weaving in different African tribes and cultures. 

It is important to note that weaving traditions in the various African tribes and cultures have existed and passed down for as long as mankind has kept record of events in time. Especially in the north African regions, their weaving techniques are presumed to be the oldest passed down traditions we have to date.  

Each weaved object has a tale to tell about long-standing African customs much akin to the hieroglyphic writing forms found in ancient egypt. They serve as a timeless craft traditionally accomplished by women. African tribes have developed this art form using accessible local resources such as reeds, grass, raffia, or palm fibers, with forms, patterns, and shapes unique to each community's location, culture, and needs. African tribes often weave using one of four techniques: coiling, plaiting, twining, or checkerboard. Plant fibers are cleaned of any dirt or grime left from its harvesting and then stripped. On occasion these plant fibers were  sometimes dyed before being woven into their specialized forms and patterns before weaving can begin. Basket and cloth weaving techniques have progressed from an essential and functional aspect of community life to a highly expressive form of contemporary art.

Many of the motifs and patterns used in these accent eras have begun to resurface in the forms of textile patterns and major artworks as seen below. 

Boris Nzebo, Laissez-Nous Sortir (2016). Courtesy Jack Bell.

SOURCES

AFRICAN WEAVING TECHNIQUES:

https://www.amatuli.co.za/2021/12/woven-together-the-art-of-african-weaving/#:~:text=African%20tribes%20typically%20use%20four,their%20specific%20shapes%20and%20patterns.

ARTWORK:

https://news.artnet.com/market/154-contemporary-african-art-fair-nyc-945596