Which finishing is applied to Ripstops?

• A. Mercerized
• B. Stonewashed
• C. Cire calendered
• D. Printed

Answer: (C)

Ripstop fabrics are defined by a grid of reinforcing yarns woven in to resist tearing, and the finishing describes how the surface and hand of the fabric are modified. The cire calendered finish uses heated, polished rollers to press the fabric, producing a very smooth, crisp surface with a slight sheen. This effect is commonly applied to ripstop to give a polished, tight hand that enhances the fabric’s clean appearance and durability. The other options change the fabric in different ways that aren’t typically tied to the ripstop surface: mercerization is a chemical treatment mostly used on cotton to boost luster and dye uptake; stonewashing softens and gives a worn look rather than a smooth, glossy surface; printing adds a pattern rather than altering the surface finish. So, cire calendered is the finishing most closely associated with ripstops.