What type of fibers come from plants or animals?

Natural fibers are derived from organic sources, which include both plants and animals. Plant-based fibers typically come from parts of plants such as leaves, seeds, and stems, examples of which are cotton, linen, and jute. Animal-based fibers originate from the hair, fur, or secretions of animals; examples include wool (from sheep), silk (from silkworms), and cashmere (from goats).

Choosing natural fibers is significant in textiles and fashion due to their biodegradable properties and the sustainability aspect, as they can be produced from renewable sources. This understanding is crucial when discussing sustainable practices in family and consumer science, as there is an increasing focus on the impact of materials on the environment.

Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, are made from chemically processed materials and do not come from natural sources. Blended fibers refer to combinations of both natural and synthetic fibers to create fabrics with diverse properties. Modified fibers are those that have been chemically altered to enhance certain characteristics but still must originate from a natural resource.