A gin is a machine that separates the seeds from the cotton fiber. It was invented by Eli Whitney in 1793 and is one of the revolutionary events in cotton processing. The fiber is then spun into thread and woven into interlining-factory fabric. The commercial process is actually far more complicated and complex but those are the general steps.

It whitens well with chlorine bleach and absorbs dyes easily. It wears well and stands up to friction. It is often blended with polyester, wool, or other fibers.Cotton fiber is gathered from the seed pod of the cotton plant and ginned. Not all cottons grow white. Some cottons can be grown that are brown, light purple and rust.

Cotton fabrics include muslin, flannel, gingham, seersucker, terry cloth, gauze, drill, swiss, duck, sateen, poplin, organdy, lawn, flannelette, percale, velveteen, outing flannel, whipcord, sailcloth, polished cotton, and others.Quilting fabric comes in so many wonderful, brilliant colors and prints that it can almost be overwhelming.

It uses compost and other natural fertilizers but no synthetic fertilizers, and utilizes ladybug introduction and other natural pest control measures. Earthtone cotton fabrics use no dyes, reducing the cost of the cotton up to 40% as compared to chemically dyed cotton. There is a return to naturally colored cotton.

The finest cotton is considered by many to be Egyptian cotton. Nonwoven Interlining Fabric made from Egyptian cotton has a smooth, silky texture. Pima cotton is grown in the United States an exported around the world while Indian cotton is generally the least expensive and can be course.Currently there is a trend toward organically raised cotton.