MAY/JUNE 2018 37 Color Frosting Of Fabric What Is The Problem? The surface color has been removed in some areas, resulting in a chalky chafed appearance or “frosting.” In many cases, the lighter discoloration is accentuated by actual abrading of surface fibers. What Does It Look Like? The dye fading and frosting of color can be extensive and appear all over, but in some cases, this type of color-loss is more noticeable on the edges of the fabric, double-thick seams, folds, creases, and/or other areas of wear. The fabric now appears fuzzy or chalky. What Caused It? Many fabric dyes can “crock” or “frost” if subjected to repeated brushing, rubbing, and friction on the surface. This abrasion rubs off the dye on the surface and can even break the surface fibers, altering their light-reflectance. During professional drycleaning or washing, the surface color tends to soften somewhat so that the already loosened dye is flushed away and the frosting of color becomes more noticeable. Can It Be Prevented? Many fabrics, especially cellulose (cotton, linen, and ramie, etc.) and cellulose blends are more susceptible to this type of color loss, so the only prevention would be more durable manufacturing methods of dyeing and finishing these fabrics to impart better durability to normal wear and care. Who Is Responsible? Color damage such as this cannot be associated with any improper care process. Only the manufacturer can be held responsible to ensure methods used to color the fabric can withstand expected conditions of normal use for a reasonable life expectancy as well as professional cleaning without exhibiting any adverse changes of appearance. Is There A Remedy? There is no restoration. By Jim Kirby, DLI Textile Analyst TABS T E X T I L E A N A LY S I S B U L L E T I N S E R V I C E BULLE TIN NO. 490 The surface color on this shirt is beginning to show crocking streaks and frosting with mini- mal wear and care. This shirt shows objection- able dulling of colors as well as frosting of surface fibers, creating a “fuzzy” appearance. The dye loss on this pair of pants is more noticeable on the edges, seams, and double-thick areas.