GERMAN WOOL SUBSTITUTE

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXIX, Issue 20098, 3 May 1935, Page 9

GERMAN WOOL SUBSTITUTE

DEEP INTEREST IN BRITAIN CAUTIOUS ACCEPTANCE OF CHANGES United Press Association —By Electric Telegraph —Copyright LONDON, May 1. Though he made no detailed investigation into the German wool substitute, woolstra, Mr D. H. Wilson, Director of the Wool Industries Research Association, of Leeds, informed the Australian Press Association that a limited range of the fabrics was examined, with the following conclusions: The ratio of wool fibre in them varied from 1.1 to 1.2; the cloths spun as worsteds have a “good handle,” and are attractive, but have a dull appearance. The only inherent advantage is their silky “handle” for fancy effects, but their wearing properties are definitely inferior to wool fabrics, owing to the tendency to rub up, stretch, become baggy, and crease easily. Bradford manufacturers express the opinion that woolstra goods may find a definite place in the industry, but mainly on account of the price of wool in relation to artificial products, which are at a more stable price. At the moment, however, they are unable to compete with wool fabrics owing to the low price of botany yarns. If the latter rise 25 pea- cent., mixed fabrics would then be in a position to compete successfully with woollen goods.