The Emergence of Silk Fabric in Ancient China

Introduction to Silk in Ancient China

• Originated over 5,000 years ago.
• Became a symbol of luxury and sophistication across Asia.

Silk Worm Cultivation

• Silk Worm Process:
  • Female silk moth lays up to 400 eggs.
  • Eggs hatch into larvae in 2 weeks.
  • Larvae consume mulberry leaves, increasing their body weight by 10,000 times.
• Cocooning Stage:
  • Larvae secrete liquid silk that hardens into thread.
  • Creates a cocoon around itself.

Silk Production Process

• Preservation of Silk Threads:
  • Cocoons are boiled for 3 minutes to prevent moth emergence.
  • Boiling dissolves sarasin, aiding in thread unwinding.
• Thread Gathering:
  • Threads from 30-50 cocoons are collected together.
  • Wound into a single, stronger thread.
  • Threads are very thin, requiring 3,000 cocoons for one pound of silk.

Silk Thread Processing

• Threads are weighed with sand, washed, bleached, and dyed.
• Dyeing Process:
  • Control over dye concentration, water temperature, and soaking duration is crucial.
  • Threads are hung to dry before weaving.

Weaving Silk Fabric

• Traditional Hand Loom:
  • Bobbins with thread passed horizontally through vertical threads.
  • Requires thousands of vertical threads per pattern.
  • Foot pedal raises alternating vertical threads, shuttle guides silk horizontally.
• Pattern Creation:
  • Different shuttles carry various colors, thicknesses, and textures.
  • Intricate designs turn silk into masterpieces.

Conclusion

• Silk weaving is a testament to modest beginnings, expert craftsmanship, and enduring grace.
• Continues to enrich lives with beauty and refinement.