#rubber thread

In more ways than one, being comfortable should become a priority especially when we’re out and about. Personal comfort can be controlled by determining what we wear during that day or activity. In the world of textiles, socks play a crucial role in providing comfort, support, and protection for our feet.

One key factor that enhances the functionality and wearability of socks is elasticity. This ensures your socks fit snugly, stay in place, and accommodate various foot sizes and shapes. Elasticity also helps socks retain their shape and fit after multiple washes and wears so you won’t have to buy new pairs every single time.

To provide that level of comfort and elasticity, socks need to use rubber threads as a core material. Not just on the cuffs of your socks, but also mixed into the rest of the garment. How exactly does rubber thread help these socks retain their elasticity? Find out more in the article below.

Check out Comparing Natural and Synthetic Rubber Threads: Pros and Cons

How Rubber Threads Enhances Sock Elasticity

Rubber is made from either natural or synthetic rubber, both possessing the unique molecular structure known as a polymer chain which contributes to its elasticity. Rubber threads provide outstanding stretch and recovery properties, allowing socks to expand and contract as needed. This ensures a snug fit that adapts to different foot sizes and shapes, maintaining comfort and functionality throughout the day.

Having rubber in these threads also helps increase durability, ensuring that the socks do not lose their snug fit after some time. However, a snug fit does not equal restrictive wear. The elasticity provided by rubber threads reduces the need for tight bands at the cuffs of these socks.

Rubber thread adds gentle compression to socks, which can improve blood circulation and reduce fatigue, particularly in the lower legs and feet. This is especially beneficial for athletic socks, medical compression socks, and everyday wear for those who spend long hours on their feet.

Next Create Comfortable Products with Super Fine Count Omnimax Rubber Threads

Rubber Thread in Different Types of Socks

Athletic and Performance Socks. Elasticity is essential for athletic and performance socks where comfort matters most. Rubber thread ensures that athletic socks provide a secure fit, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort. The elasticity also aids in moisture management by keeping the socks close to the skin, wicking away sweat, and maintaining dryness.

Compression Socks. Medical compression socks rely on elasticity to deliver graduated pressure along the body. Rubber thread is essential in providing the necessary stretch and recovery to offer consistent compression. This helps improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and alleviate special medical conditions.

Casual, Everyday Socks. For everyday wear, rubber thread enhances the comfort and fit of casual socks. Whether it’s for a day at the office or a casual outing, elastic socks stay in place, offering all-day comfort and support.

Read more about Discover How Rubber Threads are Used in Pop Culture

Rubber threads are essential components in various products, ranging from clothing and medical supplies to industrial applications. These threads provide the necessary stretch and recovery properties that make fabrics more functional and comfortable. Rubber threads can be made from either natural or synthetic rubber. Each type has distinct advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different applications.

This article compares natural and synthetic rubber threads, examining their pros and cons to help you make informed decisions for your projects.

Check out Create Comfortable Products with Super Fine Count Omnimax Rubber Threads

Natural Rubber

Natural rubber comes from the sap extracted meticulously from rubber trees (hevea brasiliensis) by cutting its bark and containing the flowing sap in a bowl stuck on the bottom. The milky substance known as latex is known for its high tensile strength, high resiliency, and superior adhesive strength. Beyond these features, natural rubber is also known for its efficacy as an electrical insulator and resistance to corrosive substances.

They possess a unique molecular structure known as the polymer chain that helps rubber return to its original state, an ideal material for high-traffic and high-activity items such as rubber gloves, tires, fashion, and more. Another advantage of rubber is its biodegradability. Hauled from nature, natural rubber decomposes in well-aerated moist soils over a year or longer, depending on the state of its environment.

On the other hand, natural rubber might not have the best heat and chemical resistance because of its molecular structure. Natural rubber may melt when exposed to high temperatures (over 180°C) and harsh chemicals. This material requires extensive vulcanization to harden and increase its physical properties. Because of the labor-intensive process of harvesting and processing latex, it’s no wonder that natural rubber has become more expensive.

Next Discover How Rubber Threads are Used in Pop Culture

Synthetic Rubber

Synthetic rubber is made from petroleum byproducts, elastane or lycra, polyester, nylon, and several other chemicals that are synthesized into specific polymers on an industrial scale. Man-made rubber is designed to mimic or enhance the properties of natural rubber. Producing synthetic rubber can be precisely controlled, allowing it to be used for varying degrees of stretch, strength, and resistance for multiple applications.

Unlike natural rubber, most synthetic rubber is highly resistant to environmental factors such as UV radiation, ozone changes, and other chemicals. This makes them the perfect material for wetsuits, shoe soles, wire insulation, seals and gaskets, and chemical-protective garments.

A big downside to synthetic rubber is its significant environmental footprint. Synthetic rubber is typically made using petroleum, a non-renewable source that harms the earth. While synthetic rubber is resistant to changes in the environment, it lacks the natural softness and breathability of natural rubber. This may lead to discomfort during extended wear and offer limited elasticity.

Read more about DIY Fashion Hacks: Upcycling Old Clothes with Rubber Thread

Both natural and synthetic rubber threads offer unique advantages and face specific challenges. Natural rubber possesses superior strength, and elasticity, and is biodegradable, but is limited by susceptibility to environmental degradation. On the other hand, synthetic rubber provides extended durability, consistency, and versatility, though it comes with great environmental concerns and lower comfort levels.

In today’s competitive market, product comfort has become a crucial factor in determining consumer satisfaction and loyalty. In the textile industry, material composition contributes greatly to the overall feel of the product and the type of situation it can be used in. The existence of super fine count Omnimax rubber threads presents a promising approach to address the growing demand for comfort. These special threads possess the unique ability to imbue a wide range of consumer goods with unparalleled ease and functionality.

Omnimax’s super fine count variant refers to thinner and more flexible threads, making them ideal for applications where comfort and subtlety are crucial. These threads are designed to maintain their elasticity and strength even after repeated use and washing, ensuring longevity and sustained comfort in the products they enhance.

Check out Discover How Rubber Threads are Used in Pop Culture

Super Fine Count Rubber Threads

There are several benefits to using super fine-count rubber threads on garments. First of all, super fine counts range from 90 to 110 threads per strip, allowing for a soft, barely-there feel. As it is delicate, these rubber threads will help reduce irritation and discomfort while worn. This makes them perfect for products that are in direct contact with the skin.

Despite the super fine count, these rubber threads still offer excellent elasticity. They return to their original shape after stretching, allowing each product to maintain its form and function over time. This elasticity allows the threads to be used in a wide range of products, from fashion to sportswear to home textiles and industrial applications. Fine-count threads are especially useful in designs where bulkiness is undesirable.

Next DIY Fashion Hacks: Upcycling Old Clothes with Rubber Thread

Applications of Omnimax Rubber Threads

Clothing and Apparel. Rubber threads are most commonly used in clothing and apparel. It is ideal for athletic and intimate apparel, providing the necessary stretch to support physically demanding activities while maintaining its initial shape. Rubber threads enhance the performance and comfort of leggings, sports bras, socks, stockings, underwear, and shapewear. Their fine count ensures that garments remain gentle against the skin, reducing the risk of chafing and potential injury.

Medical and Health Products. A lesser-known use of rubber threads is in medical compression garments, bandages, and orthopedic supports. These products require consistent, gentle pressure to improve circulation and reduce swelling, which is provided by Omnimax threads. Medical garments are commonly used for extended wear and require a comfortable fit that is snug but not uncomfortable.

Home Textile. Elasticated sheets and mattress protectors benefit from the inclusion of Omnimax rubber threads. These threads ensure a snug fit around mattresses, preventing sheets from slipping off and creating a smooth, comfortable sleeping surface. They can also be found in adjustable curtains and drapes, providing the necessary elasticity so the fabric can hang beautifully against the window.

Read more about In Depth Look at Vulcanization, Hardening Process for Natural Rubber

Often overlooked, rubber threads have a significant impact on various facets of popular culture. From fashion to art, this extraordinary material has proven itself to be a valuable component in multiple industries. Rubber threads are made from latex extracted from rubber trees that are continuous strands of rubber that possess exceptional stretch and recovery properties. They are made by extracting latex and mixing it with various additives that help stabilize and enhance its properties.

So, how exactly does it contribute to pop culture? This article will explore how rubber threads have been utilized in pop culture, showcasing their impact and importance.

Check out DIY Fashion Hacks: Upcycling Old Clothes with Rubber Thread

Fashion and Style Statements

Rubber threads are key components in many athletic equipment and sportswear. Its stretchability and resilience allow you to move comfortably while doing active, sometimes strenuous activities. Rubber threads can be found in leggings, sports bras, compression wear, socks, and even sports shoes — creating a marvelous blend of functionality with style.

High fashion designers have also experimented with rubber threads in their avant-garde creations. Designers have used elastic materials to create sculptural and dynamic pieces that challenge conventional fashion norms. You can find these avant-garde pieces in fashion shows and luxury events, which highlight the innovative use of rubber threads in haute couture.

Next Sustainable Sourcing Practices for Elastic Thread Production

Sports and Active Lifestyles

A well-known use of rubber thread can be found in compression garments in sports and fitness. Shorts, sleeves, socks, stockings, and even resistance bands rely on the elasticity of rubber threads to enhance athletic performance. Some garments even help improve blood circulation and reduce muscle fatigue that may potentially lead to unwanted injuries during active movement. Compression gear can also assist athletes in gaining a competitive edge during events and matches.

Perhaps the most known use of rubber threads in sports can be found in swimwear. Rubber’s ability to allow free movement while maintaining its initial shape showcases its impact on enhancing the performance of swimmers everywhere. Swimwear made from rubber threads does not easily break despite repeated use, even allowing smooth movement while in the water.

Art and Installation Pieces

The world of theatre and dance has benefitted from the flexibility of rubber threads to enhance performers’ mobility. Ballet and contemporary dancers often incorporate elastic materials that can enable them to execute complex movements with ease. Some aspects of Broadway productions and circuses also use rubber threads in their elaborate costume, keeping ruffles and other intricate details in place without fear of malfunction in the middle of a performance.

Other than performance and fashion art, other artists have also experimented with rubber threads to create interactive and immersive installations. These artworks often play with tension, elasticity, and space — inviting viewers to engage with the pieces physically and conceptually. Some artists have even experimented with wearable sculptures and large thread-based paintings that are showcased in galleries, museums, and public spaces worldwide.

Read more about In-Depth Look at Vulcanization, Hardening Process for Natural Rubber

Instead of discarding worn-out or outdated garments, many have opted to breathe new life into them with a bit of imagination and elastic threads. Flexible, durable, versatile — rubber threads have proven to be great materials for easy alterations of your wardrobe. Here are some ways you can upcycle your old clothes using rubber thread.

Check out Sustainable Sourcing Practices for Elastic Thread Production

Scrunchies or Headbands

One of the simplest ways to upcycle old clothing using rubber threads is by creating hair accessories such as scrunchies or headbands. All you need are some fabric scraps, a sewing kit or machine, scissors, and rubber threads. You might also need some safety pins or a tube turner depending on which accessory you are trying to make.

To make scrunchies, you will need to measure 10 to 20 cm of scrap fabric in length and around 8 to 10 cm in length. Then, fold the fabric in half lengthwise, making sure to fold on the sharper printed side before stitching along the long edge and leaving a small gap in the seam. You must then turn the fabric right side out and sew the short edges together to form a loop. Next, insert the elastic thread through the seam gap using a safety pin. Finally, you can stitch the seam gap closed to finalize your scrunchie.

Meanwhile, a headband is made by folding a 10 to 20-cm long and 8-cm-wide fabric in half, meeting the right sides together, then stitching them together while leaving a small gap near one end. Similar to scrunchies, you will need to turn the fabric halfway to the right side, to match the short edges. Then, match the seams and short edges before stitching them together. Turn the fabric right side out through the small gap then close the gap with a blind stitch, and you’re done.

Transforming T-Shirts to Crop Tops

Compared to the previous project, upcycling your old T-shirts into a crop top is one of the simpler projects. Crop tops can easily be made without any complicated materials and tools. You will need some elastic thread, a sewing machine, and an old T-shirt.

First, measure your T-shirt to the desired crop top length using a measuring tape or holding it against your body. Then, mark the cutoff line using chalk, leaving an extra centimeter or two for the hem. Cut the T-shirt along your mark, then fold it over to create the hem. Set the hem in place by sewing it using an elastic thread to create a stretchy, fitted finish.

Next In-Depth Look at Vulcanization, Hardening Process for Natural Rubber

Washable Face Masks

Use scrap fabric or your old clothes to make reusable, washable face masks. Look for a downloadable face mask pattern, then trace said pattern on your fabric to create a custom mask. Remember that fabric masks have two layers or more layers of fabric so you might need to create several patterns for this project. Additionally, you will need two strips of elastic thread, adjustable fabric ties, and a sewing kit or machine to complete this project.

After cutting out your pattern, you will need to fold the two layers of fabric together and sew the elastic ear loops onto each end. Sew them with a 4 cm seam allowance to the mask exterior. Then, you can start sewing the mask together from the inside, then turning it right side out to create a flawless finish. Feel free to create a top stitch from the edge for a nice professional look.

Read more about Get to Know PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam and Its Rubber Thread Export

Producing tens and tons of rubber-based products requires massive amounts of raw materials. Manufacturers everywhere must be able to source their raw materials as efficiently as possible. With the public’s rising interest in eco-friendly products and practices, it is important that companies also start looking into alternative, more sustainable ways of sourcing their materials.

The textile industry, in particular, faces significant pressure to adopt more sustainable practices, especially those that produce rubber-based elastic products. Since the conception of vulcanization, rubber has become indispensable to fashion, health, sports, automotive, and industrial production.

Even so, many products still use a mix of natural and synthetic rubber to produce optimal resilience. Synthetic rubber is made from petroleum byproducts like styrene, butadiene, ethylene, and many more. Because it is man-made, synthetic rubber requires lots of oil, natural gas, and energy to produce. Scientists estimate that the production of synthetic rubber can generate more than 2.5 tons of CO2 emissions per year.

That being said, rubber remains a staple material for many industries and thus far, no other new materials have emerged to replace its functionality. So, are there any other alternatives to sustainably produce elastic threads?

Check out In-Depth Look at Vulcanization, Hardening Process for Natural Rubber

Going Natural with Sustainable Sourcing & Production

Sustainable sourcing practices involve obtaining raw materials in a way that considers the environmental, social, and economic impacts of production. Since it was first discovered, natural rubber has always been a renewable and biodegradable material. Obtaining natural sap does not require meticulous machinery that exhausts energy, and materials, and harms the ecosystem.

The WWF suggests re-growing rubber trees without clearing natural forests to increase the likelihood of sustainable sourcing. By doing so, fauna that are native to the forests will not face the risk of losing their homes. Letting rubber trees grow in natural forests also has the potential to increase biodiversity and reduce carbon emissions. That way, not only are we able to continue rubber production, but also save the natural habitat of elephants, tigers, and many other endangered species at the same time.

Next, Get to Know PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam and Its Rubber Thread Export

The production of elastic thread can be energy-intensive. Implementing energy-efficient practices helps reduce the carbon footprint of the manufacturing process. This includes using renewable energy sources, optimizing production processes to minimize energy consumption, and investing in energy-efficient machinery.

In line with the production needs, companies will also need to readjust how water is used. Reducing water usage by optimizing production processes or recycling wastewater will help reduce pollution and conserve resources. Companies everywhere can also implement water treatment systems that ensure wastewater is properly discharged and disposed of.

Read more about The Future of Rubber Thread in Textiles: Innovation and Potential

Rubber is a product that involves various chemicals mixed in to strengthen and stretch its properties. So it’s not that surprising that producing elastic threads requires a mix of chemicals that may potentially disturb the balance of nature. Using non-toxic and biodegradable materials can have a positive impact on the environment as well as push companies to implement a proper chemical management system at their disposal.

Natural rubber comes from sap extracted from the hevea tree, more commonly known as the rubber tree. The practice of extracting sap from these trees is known to have been done by the ancient Aztecs and Mayans. It is done by removing a sliver of bark from the tree, usually done diagonally, and attaching a small bucket to the bottom of the path to collect the freely flowing latex. Rubber trees can live up to 100 years and are usually deemed mature for tapping once they reach six years of age.

For natural rubber to be used in multiple items and industries, it must be durable without losing its elastic properties. Sap extracted from these trees can withstand repeated stretches without breaking. However, more is needed for more complex and specific uses in life. The invention of vulcanization, a process of stabilizing and enhancing the mechanical properties of natural rubber, has opened a larger window of opportunity for rubber processing.

Read again about Get to Know PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam and Its Rubber Thread Export

Get to Know the Vulcanization Process

Latex extracted from rubber trees quickly grew in popularity for its flexibility and versatility. However, it had the fatal flaw of easily melting in the summer and cracking in the winter, which contributed to its decline in popularity by the mid-19th century. Thus, in the 1830s, American chemist Charles Goodyear experimented with several techniques that could resolve this problem. He mixed chemicals, including nitric acid, lime, and turpentine, with raw latex in his makeshift laboratory. This resulted in a less sticky mixture that was great for rubber mailbags but it wasn’t enough to stabilize the material. It wasn’t until he accidentally combined rubber with sulfur on a hot stove that he discovered what we now know as the vulcanization process.

The vulcanization process is done by mixing rubber with sulfur and other additives, such as accelerators and activators. Then the mixture is heated to a temperature between 140°C and 160°C to harden the material. Adding heat to the mixture will allow the sulfur atoms to form chemical bonds with the polymer chains that are present in the rubber. This will create cross-links between proximate polymer molecules and form three-dimensional structures that make the rubber material more resistant to deformation.

Next The Future of Rubber Thread in Textiles: Innovation and Potential

Practical Applications of Vulcanized Rubber

From vehicle tires to surgical gloves, almost all industries worldwide benefit from the added durability and strength of rubber. Here are some more examples of industrial use of vulcanized rubber.

Construction and Infrastructure: Vulcanized rubber is waterproof, slip-resistant, and can be used to dampen the impact of machinery and noise. It is commonly used as roofing materials, vibration and noise dampening, and flooring in the construction industry.

Consumer Goods: You can most likely find vulcanized rubber in sportswear and footwear. Vulcanized rubber provides ample support, protection, and comfort for day-to-day use. One can greatly benefit from its elasticity and enhanced resilience, especially when it comes to active use. They can also be found in household items such as door mats and kitchen utensils.

Marine Industry: Though not commonly known, vulcanized rubber can be found in boat fenders and dock bumpers. Thanks to its enhanced mechanical properties, rubber can be used to absorb impact and prevent damage from collisions. It is also known to be resistant to saltwater, making it ideal for long-term sea voyages.

Check out Beyond Basic Black: Exploring The Design Possibilities of Omnimax Rubber Threads

As the textile industry continues to grow and evolve, the demand for good-quality rubber threads rises. PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam has emerged as a prominent player, specializing in the production and export of rubber thread. Based in Indonesia, the company has proven itself by delivering superior-quality elastic threads that meet international standards. Over the years, PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam has invested heavily in state-of-the-art technology and a skilled workforce, enabling it to produce high-quality rubber threads that cater to diverse market needs.

So what kind of rubber threads does the company make? How are they applied in our day-to-day lives?

Here’s a more in-depth look at PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam and its rubber thread production line.

Read more about The Future of Rubber Thread in Textiles: Innovation and Potential

Company Overview

As a manufacturing company, Ominax by PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam is based in Bogor, Indonesia, and operates in the Broadwoven Fabric Mills sector. It was established in 1989 with its first factory finally operating in 1991. Omnimax was under the name PT Swasthi Parama Mulya and PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam, with the former eventually deactivated in 2020. The company supplies rubber thread to companies that manufacture textiles, bungee jumping equipment, furniture, and more.

PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam’s commitment to quality is evident in its operations. Their rubber threads are known to have distinct qualities, where their rubber threads can maintain a smooth finish despite having coarser thread counts. Omnimax rubber threads are available in a wide range of thread counts from 40 - 60 to 90 - 110. Aside from producing fine-count rubber threads, their products are also known for their ability to retain elastic properties and color for up to five years since purchase and production.

Next Beyond Basic Black: Exploring The Design Possibilities of Omnimax Rubber Threads

Products and Production

The company’s rubber threads offer a wide range of applications. Some of the more well-known uses can be found in textiles, mainly in socks and stockings. Rubber threads are applied as the elastic ends that help keep your socks and stockings in place. Due to its durable and elastic properties, rubber threads can adjust to different shapes and sizes without risking tear or breakage for a longer time than cotton threads. This is why you can even find rubber threads in bungee jumping ropes, furniture, and even in meat packaging string.

Since its establishment, the company now has four efficient production lines. With this many production lines, PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam can efficiently produce more rubber threads for their clients. In a 2022 report, EMIS reported a net sales revenue increase of 18.7% at PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam. The company’s strategic focus on international markets has also contributed to its strong presence overseas.

Check out Prioritizing Safety and Comfort: Why Rubber Threads Should Be OEKO-TEX Certified