Silk, Wool or Other? What Kind of Tallit Fabric to Go For?
Step into a conventional orthodox synagogue anywhere in the world on a Saturday morning and you will see the time-honored silk tallit draped down dozens of backs. The basic black and white design has been in use for centuries and may look similar, but the discerning eye will notice certain disparities and can know a little about the wearer by focusing on subtle elements. Planning to buy a tallit – prayer shawl, and thinking what fabric to opt for. Wool and silk seem fashionable and many modern commercial talliot are there made from polyester blends. Let me remind you, if your community’s practice is not just limited to wool, then a vast world of options is awaiting you. As you focus on your preferences, here are some distinct types of fabrics you need to consider: Silk: This is a huge popular substitute to wool. Given the status of a special occasion fabric, silk truly fits the reason of a prayer shawl. Among the varied diversity that would go well with a tallit are raw silk, Dupioni silk and China silk. This fabric at times and places have enjoyed immense popularity in Jewish history. Organza: This sheer fabric is traditionally made from the silk. Transparent and lightweight, one can find varieties made from manmade and silk fibers. You can find a wide variety of embroidered organza and choose from an assortment of hues, designs, styles and textures. Hemp: If you are looking for a fabric that is in line with your commitment to environmental sustainability, hemp will be worth considering. Cotton: Cotton is an excellent option for making talliot. If you prefer your tallit to be cotton made, then search for a version that has considerable weight and great wrap, so that it does not look occasional. Acrylic/Polyester/Wool Blends: Most of the contemporary commercial tallit and the tallit used by Jewish at morning synagogues are usually blends of polyester and wool. The man-made fiber holding the advantage of being less expensive adds great durability and drape when wrapped around. A mixture of both wool and polyester is easier to found and not the talliot that are 100% wool. Denim: Denims today are a modern informal option for carrying a cotton or polyestercotton blend. While choosing one, avert denims that stretch and opt something that wraps well.