Domestic technical textiles Industry Segment-wise consumption of ...

Interlining
Interlining is a fabric used between the inner and outer layer of the garment to improve shape
retention, strength or bulk. Interlining finds application in the waistbands, flies, pockets and belt loops
of men's trousers; in the cuffs, collars and plackets of shirts and in the lapels, fronts, collars and
pockets of tailored jackets and blazers. Invisible from the outside, interlining ensures accurate fit and
optimum wearer comfort and thus, forms an important part of the garment.
The Garment sector is presently one of the most important sectors in the economy in terms of output,
foreign exchange earnings and employment. In FY2006 India’s total production in the Garment sector
was estimated at 7.85 billion pieces (Rs. 933 billion) out of which exports comprised of 2.24 billion
pieces (Rs 372 billion). Garment industry maintained a growth rate of 15% in 2007-08 and is expected
to grow at a CAGR of around 13% over the next five years. The proposed growth of the garment
sector signals good potential for interlinings.
Product characteristics
Interlining may be woven, knitted or nonwoven made out of cotton, polyester, polyester/cotton or
polyester/viscose blend. Nonwoven interlining is available in weight ranging from 18 gsm to 70 gsm
whereas woven interlining is available in weight ranging from 120 gsm to 250 gsm. Both woven and
nonwoven interlinings are available in fusible as well as non-fusible varieties.
Fusible interlining is a base fabric coated with a thermoplastic material usually HDPE or LDPE. It
can be bonded to another fabric by the application of heat and pressure. Fusing offers many
advantages to both garment manufacturer and wearer. For the wearer, garment durability is increased
and crease-recovery is improved. For the manufacturer, garments can be produced to a consistent
quality.
Key application areas of interlining
Interlinings are majorly used in garments, the choice being driven by the buyer’s requirement and
cost. Majority of garment manufacturers use fusible interlinings however, basic interlinings find
application as the back cloth for embroidery. Interlinings also find application in shoes, furnishing,
etc.
Market dynamics and key growth drivers
The demand for interlining is majorly governed by the demand for garments. Readymade and tailor
made shirts account for 80% of the consumption of interlining, the balance 20% of interlining being
consumed in other garments i.e. trousers, jackets, ladies dresses, suits.