Library

Case Studies for Carpet Inspectors

By Dr Eric Brown (ITFA - 2019)

The Case Study for Carpet Inspectors is another great tool for those involved in either real time carpet inspection or those individuals that have to manage the process of handling claims or wanting to understand much more about the process.
This is another ‘book’ by author Dr Eric Brown who has had many years of international experience in carpet inspection and training.
This contains some great advice and practical examples of situations and experiences in carpet claims issues.
Dr Brown is a ‘hands on’ specialist and expert inspector.
Containing 43 pages of excellent information, advice and a great addition to aid those involved in these demanding areas.

Laboratory Test Methods for Carpet Inspectors

By Dr Eric Brown (ITFA - 2019)

This manual is intended to provide carpet inspectors with the information required to carry out a number of simple tests. Such tests will strengthen the value of their report and will allow more definitive
conclusions to be drawn.

It is divided into two sections.

Section One details the test procedures that can be carried out simply,with the acquisition of a few pieces of test apparatus, a small number of chemicals and with minimal expenditure.

Section Two gives an insight into the additional tests that can be provided by a fully equipped textile testing laboratory and as such are beyond the scope of the carpet inspector.
Nevertheless, background knowledge of these tests will allow the inspector to decide whether supplementary testing outside their own scope can be used to assist in the settlement of a dispute.

Identification of Carpet Faults

By Dr Eric Brown (ITFA - 2019)

Dr Eric Brown. Dr Brown has written many books on the subject of carpet cleaning and inspection over the course of many years. The Academy is very happy to feature this book which is a working tool for carpet inspectors, technical staff at a mill or anyone who wants to learn more about this area.

A quote from the book below

“Throughout the text are examples of laboratory procedures that most inspectors would be able to carry out themselves in their own workshops. In this way they can provide value-added information to their reports which will more beneficial to the client. The client is seeking a definitive answer to their problem and it should be the inspectors’ role to ensure that a definitive answer is reached. Even if that answer does not support the client’s claim.”

Diagnostic Techniques for the Investigation of Carpet Complaints

By Dr Eric Brown (ITFA - 2019)

A ‘must read’ online book from Dr Eric Brown, one of the world’s leading carpet inspectors.

This book adds typical Dr Brown humour to illustrate the many examples of carpet complaints that Dr Brown has encountered. Often nothing is as it seems!

A great book for Carpet Inspectors, Technical Staff at a mill or anyone wanting to learn about diagnosing a problem during an inspection.

Pneumatic Carpet Yarn Splicing

By Mr Graham Waters ARCS BSc CTexT FTI (ITFA - 2020 - )

Graham Waters ARCS BSc CText FTI has a degree in Physics from Imperial College London.

He began his career in innovation, mainly in the textile industry, in 1963. He filed his first patent in 1968; his most recent patent dates from 2018.

He is currently the MD of Airbond, whose business is yarn splicing, the result of creating solutions where there are design weaknesses. Airbond was then first company in its field to use 3D printing for its entire production.

This paper discusses the science of splicing yarns. There is no doubt that this process has had a enormous impact within the manufacturing area of the carpet industry.

Graham is a world leader in air splicing, Airbond is a leading manufacturer and distributor of this equipment.

Introduction to Textile Floor Coverings

By Peter Ellis (ITFA - 2019 - )

This a an excellent short overview of the manufacturing history and techniques of the carpet industry.

It covers rugs, handmade and machine made, as well as broadloom, with information join materials, design, construction and finishing.

Carpet Manufacture – Chemical Treatments

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

Insect Resist
Flame Retardance
Antistatic
Stain Repellence
Many chemical treatments are applied to wool carpets, usually in conjunction with dyeing or yarn finishing, to enhance properties such as insect-resistance, flame-resistance, soil and stain-repellency, and to control the generation of electrostatic charges. This publication identifies the need for such processes and outlines the principal treatments available.
References are given to more detailed publications providing information for companies
intending to use the processes.

Carpet Manufacture – Carpet Tiles

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

Wool carpet tiles potentially constitute an important segment of the market for contract carpets. Tiles
provide easy access to sub floor installations or flat cables in the commercial contract sector;
and patterned tiles are important in the hospitality market. Easy access to buildings and flexible
transport and handling are other significant advantages of carpet tiles.
The technical requirements of carpet tiles are considered, and various techniques for converting
carpet into tiles are surveyed

Carpet Manufacture – Primary and Secondary Backings for Tufted Carpets

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

In this paper is a detailed examination of the requirements and appropriate selection of backing fabrics for the construction of the carpet to be manufactured to achieve tufting efficiency, optimum surface appearance and satisfactory finish.

Carpet Manufacture – Carpet Finishing

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

Procedures for inspecting, mending, brushing, steaming, shearing and packaging of wool carpets are outlined. Recommendations are given for finishing wool carpets in such a way that their propensity to shade after installation is minimised.

Carpet Manufacture – Back Coating Technology

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

An excellent detailed report. The principles of preparing latex compounds for the various types of secondary backing and different techniques of application are outlined. Recommendations are given for achieving good results in wool carpets with a high-relief back-stitch, principally crossover patterned and coarse gauge loop-pile styles.

Bonded Carpets

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

Bonding as a carpet manufacturing process has two important advantages: a high proportion of the pile yarn is present in the surface pile; and the process is a single-step operation with no need for a secondary backing operation.

Carpet Tufting (Part 2) – Pattern Techniques

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

The principles of tufting are outlined, with special reference to tufting wool carpets. Information including advice on the available systems for producing patterned tufted carpets are surveyed with an indication of the design styles each can produce. Original report written in 2002 but reference is made to 2018 systems of note.

Carpet Tufting (Part 1) The Principles

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

The principles of tufting are outlined, with special reference to tufting wool carpets. Guidance is given on engineering wool carpets to particular constructions, including advice on how to avoid or correct possible faults. Machine control systems may be used as aids to quality.

Axminster Carpet Weaving

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

Axminster weaving is used for the production of wool rugs, carpet squares, broadloom residential and contract carpets in multicoloured designs. Gripper-jacquard looms are the more versatile of the two types manufactured and their versatility has been enhanced by the introduction of electronic jacquards. Spool-gripper looms are somewhat more productive and have infinite scope for colour and design, but are more suitable for longer production runs. Information is given on the requirements for raw materials and the variety of carpet constructions that can be produced on Axminster looms. This report does not cover advances made since 2002.

Wire Wilton Weaving

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

Wire Wilton weaving has largely been displaced by face-to-face and Axminster weaving for the production of multi-coloured carpets. However, it remains important, for the production of multi height high quality and dense constructions in one, two or three colours. Wire-loom weaving is a versatile system which can be used to create many different pile textures. The principles of weaving textured Wilton carpets are outlined in this publication.

The Thermal Properties of Wool Carpets

By Dr Steve McNeil (Ag/Research NZ - ITFA 2019)

Great paper on Wool Carpets thermal properties, by a leading textile scientist from Ag/Research New Zealand.

Wool carpets are effective thermal insulators, saving 8-13% of heating and cooling costs, with the greatest thermal insulation provided by thick carpets on underlays
 Wool carpets increase personal comfort and can be used with under-floor heating
 The thermal advantages of wool carpets stem from wool’s low thermal conductivity, high crimp, and the release/absorption of heat that accompanies the absorption/release of water vapour
 The superior resilience of wool means that wool carpets retain their pile height, a key factor in the insulation value of carpets, for longer.

Carpet Installation

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

For a floor covering to perform satisfactorily throughout its wear life, it is essential to install it correctly. Full consultation should take place between all interested parties on every aspect relating to floor preparation, seaming, pattern matching, type of underlay, fitting methods etc.
This paper discusses the methods, standards and codes of practice associated with installation.

Acoustic Properties of Carpeted Floors

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

This report discusses the most versatile of the acoustic materials known at present – Carpets. It is the
only material that reduces noise in buildings by absorbing airborne sound, reducing the
transmission of impact sound (i.e. footfalls) and reducing the generation of surface noise. This is
particularly important in offices, hospital corridors, theatres, libraries, conference halls, etc.

Behaviour of Carpets in Use

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

This informative report discusses the most common changes that can occur in carpeting after it is installed.
Some are manufacturing, installation or maintenance faults, whilst others are associated with the
construction of the carpet or where it is installed.

Wool Carpets and Underfloor Heating

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

The heat insulating characteristics of carpets are used to improve the comfort and well-being of building inhabitants as carpets will keep the warmth in heated buildings in winter, and the heat out of cooled and air-conditioned buildings in summer. This report looks at the reasons why certain carpets – and certain underlays – are more effective than others in saving energy.

Thermal Insulation of Carpets

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

The heat insulating characteristics of carpets are used to improve the comfort and well-being of
building inhabitants as carpets will keep the warmth in heated buildings in winter, and the heat out
of cooled and air-conditioned buildings in summer. This report looks at the reasons why certain
carpets – and certain underlays – are more effective than others in saving energy.

Fibre Shedding in Wool Carpets

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

This report discusses the causes of shedding, the factors that influence it, and the means of reducing
shedding. Shedding is a feature of the yarn and carpet manufacturing systems and is not a carpet fault.

Wool – Photobleaching

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

This report explains the phenomenon of ‘First Fade’ of wool textile floor coverings, caused by the
fading of the natural colour of the wool fibre, commonly called ‘photobleaching’, when exposed to
(sun)light.

Understanding Pile Reversal

By Dr Eric M Brown (Cleaning Research International - 2014)

A brochure describing the phenomenon of pile reversal

Wool – Stock Dyeing

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

Carpet wool is dyed in the form of loose stock for the manufacture of Heather and other mixture colours, for dry-spun yarns, – and to ensure uniform colour in large lots for plain colours.
This report considers the pro’s and con’s of the system and the equipment utilised in the process.

Colouration of Wool Carpets – Batch Dyeing

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

The challenging area of Batch/Piece dyeing of Wool carpets is discussed. This report outlines the procedures for success. Motivation for the piece coloration of wool carpets is largely its facility to provide quick response to customer orders in a wide variety of colourways.

Colouration of Wool Carpets – Continuous Dyeing

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

This report considers blend selection, yarn engineering, yarn setting and the key equipment for the continuous dyeing of wool carpets.

Colouration of Wool Carpets – Dyeing of Blends

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

This report discusses the principles to be followed when preparing and dyeing wool/nylon carpet blends are summarised and recommendations given for dye selection. Dyeing procedures are outlined.

Colouration of Wool Carpets – Space Dyeing

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

A yarn effect that has many aesthetic uses and this detailed publication considers the suitability of the various space-dyeing processes for wool carpet yarns and gives general technical guidance on the technology of space dyeing. A very good overview of Space Dyeing systems.

Colouration of Wool Carpets – Printing

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

There is a strong interaction between carpet construction and printing conditions that must be considered if successful results are to be achieved. Although some attractive merged-colour designs have been produced on loop-pile wool carpets, interest is focused principally on cut-pile wool carpets.

Guide to Yarn Dyeing

By Harrison Gardner (Harrison Gardner and Co Ltd - )

This guide has been designed to give you an insight into the hank dyeing and space dyeing and the processes that are involved.

To be a Carpet Designer

By Tracey Bentham (ITFA - 2019)

This is a fascinating and highly-informative paper on how to become a successful carpet stylist. To be a Carpet Designer is written by Tracey Bentham, a designer with over 30 years’ service in the carpet industry.

Are interested in design as a career?
Are you interested in surface pattern design?
Do textiles, texture and materials hold a fascination for you?
Are you curious about the manufacturing process of products?
Do you want to know more about the technical challenges of product design?

Knowing more about carpet design could be relevant to your job, be it in sales, marketing, or manufacturing. This paper will give you an insight into the nuances of carpet design.

Knowing how to smooth the path through the design process will result in a good design which is on brief and on budget.

This is a great paper for Designers, those wishing to be Designers and anyone in the carpet industry that wants to learn more about the process of design.

Textile Floorcovering and the Incidence of Allergic Reaction in Persons

By Wools of New Zealand edited/updated by ITFA 2019.

The possible connection between allergic reaction in dust-sensitive persons and certain types of floorcovering is reviewed and discussed. Committees have been set up at various times to investigate this possible connection, which could lead to serious repercussions as far as contract carpet installations are concerned. The results of several surveys on the relative allergenic properties of carpeted and non-carpeted floors have been published.

The Removal of Indoor Air Contaminants by Wool Carpet

By Dr Steve McNeil (Ag/Research NZ - ITFA 2109)

Excellent study from Ag/Research NZ.

Indoor air pollutants can lead to discomfort, reduced productivity of employees and even ill health.
Research by AgResearch scientists has revealed that wool carpets significantly improve indoor air quality by rapidly absorbing the common pollutants formaldehyde, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Not only does wool neutralise these contaminants more quickly and completely than synthetic carpet fibres, wool does not re-emit them, even when heated.
Wool carpet may continue purifying the air for up to 30 years.

Contract Carpets for Patient Care

By Wools of New Zealand edited/updated by ITFA 2019.

A great paper with lots of good information on the use of carpets in this demanding area.
Carpets improve the quality of patient care by providing a more attractive, friendly and homely setting, increased thermal and acoustic comfort and greater safety underfoot. Carpets do not constitute a bacteriological or allergenic hazard, and modern carpets can be engineered to withstand the increasingly stringent maintenance requirements imposed by Health Authorities.

Carpet, the Healthy Flooring Option

By David Whitefoot CTexT FTI (ITF Academy - January 2018 )

This detailed review covers 43 research studies, reports and articles that illustrate the deep complexity of this subject and proves conclusively that there is no scientific validity for suggesting that carpet is a major threat to the health of consumers, even those with common allergic reactions.

Green Cleaning for Health

By Air Quality Sciences USA (Air Quality Sciences - 2011)

 What is the current definition of “green cleaning”?  What health effects are associated with cleaning products and processes (green and conventional)?  Are green cleaning products more or less safe and effective than their conventional counter parts?  How can decision makers and consumers tell if marketing claims are valid or bogus?  What distinguishes green cleaning products from other products?

Carpet, the Dust Mite and Asthma

By David Whitefoot (ITF Academy - 2018)

This review covers more than 20 research studies, showing the complexity of this subject and that there is no major threat to the health of carpet owners from dust mites.

Investigation of Carpet Soiling in Selected Homes

By Michael Grothe and Mark Nowak (National Association of Home Builders - 2000)

Evaluate cleaning methods to identify a solution that builders could use for immediate soiling problems, and, to test air sealing as a mitigation/prevention method.

Introduction to Man-Made Fibres

By J. Preston, Britannica Online Encyclopaedia

An great review of Man-made fibres. Great reference material.
This article reviews the composition, structure, and properties of man-made fibres, both regenerated and synthetic, and then describes the ways in which they are spun, drawn, and textured into useful fibres.

Innovation and Project Management

By Martin Bentham C.Col, BSc, ASDC (ITF Academy - January 2018 )

A practical guide to managing the innovation process and project management

Intellectual Property Management

By Martin Bentham C.Col, BSc, ASDC (ITF Academy - January 2018 )

A practical review of Patents and Trade Secrets, Trademarks, Copyrights and Design Rights

Carpeting, Indoor Air and the Environment

By Building Green USA

A very good paper covering indoor air quality relating to floor-covering. Adhesives, Solvents, SB Latex, PVC, Carpet Underlay, Dyeing and other treatments all discussed.

All about Sheep and Wool

By International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO - 2018)

An excellent paper on the history of Sheep and Wool, Wool Stats, Environmental issues and Wool Facts.

Wool Product Training for Retailers – Features, Advantages and Benefits of Wool Carpets

By Hallie Cobb (ITF Academy - 2018)

An excellent paper for retailers, Interior designers or anyone who wants to know about the Features, Advantages and Benefits of Wool carpets. Hallie Cobb (USA) has had many years experience in advising retailers on this subject and provides a practical paper for anyone new to Wool, wanting a refresher or just needing some great tips.

Life Cycle Assessment – Understanding Wools Environmental Performance

By IWTO/TAG (IWTO - 2012)

Consumers of wool, retailers and designers of apparel and interior textiles, spinners, weavers and indeed all those who contribute to the creation of a wool product right down to the farmer who grows it, have an interest in understanding wool’s environmental credentials.

Wool and Flame Resistance

By IWTO (IWTO - 2010)

Wool’s inherent fire resistance comes from its naturally high nitrogen and water content. Because of these, wool requires higher levels of oxygen in the surrounding environment in order to burn.

Guidelines for Conducting a Life Cycle Assessment of the environmental performance of Wool Textiles

By IWTO/Wool LCA TAG (IWTO - 2016)

These Guidelines for assessing the environmental performance of wool textiles using a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach have been developed by the International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) and Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) with the support of members of the IWTO Sustainable Practices Working Group under the leadership of Dr Paul Swan and Angus Ireland from AWI.

Wool is Biodegradable

By IWTO (Campaign for Wool/IWTO - 2014)

Wool grows naturally on sheep, and is made of a protein called keratin – the same protein that is in human hair. During the biodegradation process, fungi first destroy the ends of the wool fibre

Wool and the Environment

By Dr Beverley Henry (IWTO/LCA TAG - 2012)

LCA studies of textiles and clothing are valuable for quantitative benchmarking of supply chains and informing decisions on changes to reduce environmental impacts. They also support engagement with stakeholders on environmental performance and allow sustainability programs and policies to be evaluated against significant environmental impacts.

Wool and Fire

By International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO - 2012)

Wool’s inherent chemical structure makes wool naturally flame resistant. It is a highly trusted natural fibre in public areas such as hotels, aircraft, hospitals and theatres. Wool is harder to ignite than many common textile fibres.

Selecting a Carpet and Pad (Underlay)

By Dr Leona Hawks (Utah State University - 1987)

Shopping for carpet? Carpet as a flooring material is comfortable to walk on, can be cleaned, and offers a luxurious appearance. When shopping for carpet, do not think that just because two carpets look the same in the store they will perform the same once installed

Why Wool carpets in a commercial interiors?

By M. Thomann (Stuart Jackson LLC - 2009)

In the United States, we often fail to consider a wool carpet in commercial spaces because the product is thought to be too expensive. Today, that certainly is not the case and now the cost per pound between a quality nylon and wool is extremely competitive.

World Flooring Production

By Roland Dengler (Homag Group Engineering - 2010 approx)

Market shares (Floor coverings US market and Western Europe) ƒ Market development ƒ Laminate Flooring Engineered Wood Flooring LVT Flooring Laminate Flooring, Engineered Wood Flooring, LVT Flooring ƒ Profiles + Installation methods ƒ Surfaces ƒ Delivered DET-Lines from HOMAG Group ƒ China ƒ Flooring production in China ƒ Chinese flooring export ƒ Reason for the success of Chinese flooring producers ƒ Obstacles for Chinese flooring producers in the future ƒ Opportunities for American companies in the future

Recycling – and Wool

By IWTO

An interesting short paper from IWTO.
As a natural fibre, wool offers many opportunities to keep its product in circulation for a relatively long period of time, thereby reducing the product’s environmental footprint.
Research by Textile Materials and Technology at Leeds University has shown that wool is extremely well suited for recycling. The ‘cradle-to-grave” reality for wool could involve two or more lives and a total ‘active life’ of up to 20-30 years.

EU Ecolabel Award Scheme – Textile Floor Coverings – User Manual.

By EU Eco label

The European Ecolabel is the voluntary ecological quality label stated by the European Union whose aim is to promote products that, during their whole life-cycle, have lower environmental impacts if compared to other ones.
The label offers detailed, objective and scientifically based information on the key environmental impacts to the European and any other private or professional consumer or purchaser.

Nordic Eco labelling – Floor Coverings

By Nordic Eco labelling

A Nordic Ecolabelled floor covering…

–        has a high proportion of renewable and/or recycled materials.

–        meets stringent requirements on chemicals harmful to health and the environment

–        guarantees low emissions and a good indoor environment.

–        has been manufactured energy efficiently

–        has good durability.

EU Ecolabel for Textile Floor Coverings – “The official EU mark for Greener Products”

By EU Carpet Sector (ITFA 2019 - )

The new Regulation on the EU Ecolabel encourages all companies, European and non-European, to apply for the EU Ecolabel for their products or services, providing they meet the relevant product group criteria. Applications can be made to the Competent Body of the country where the products are or will be placed on the market.

This brief paper gives an overview of the Ecolabel.

Index of European Standards and Test Methods for Textile and Resilient Floor Coverings – with annual updates.

(ITFA - September 2018)

The definitive guide to all current (and obsolete/replaced) European Standards related to, or relevant for, textile (and resilient) floor coverings. This guide is constantly being reviewed and an updated version will be sent annually to purchasers Free of charge.

Index of European Standards and Test Methods for Textile and Resilient Floor Coverings

(ITFA - September 2018)

The definitive guide to all current (and obsolete/replaced) European Standards related to, or relevant for, textile (and resilient) floor coverings.
This guide is constantly being reviewed and an updated version will be published periodically.

Textile Floor Covering – Terms and Definitions (with annual updates)

By Peter Goodman (ITFA - August 2018)

This excellent and comprehensive reference document researched, written and compiled by Peter Goodman provides a rich source of terms and definitions associated with Textile Floor Coverings from their manufacture, through to their installation and maintenance. Its usage is applicable to a wide range of personnel from manufacturing technicians, those involved in sales and sales administration, customer service, education, historic conservators, legal professionals, investigators and arbitrators, those from the carpet cleaning and maintenance industry, specifiers and architects, installers, apprentices and trainees.

A really great working tool for anyone associated with the industry.

This version of the standard will be updated annually with new and additional terms and definitions, and will be sent to the purchasers “Free of charge.”

Textile Floor Covering – Terms and Definitions

By Peter Goodman (ITFA - August 2018)

This excellent and comprehensive reference document researched, written and compiled by Peter Goodman provides a rich source of terms and definitions associated with Textile Floor Coverings from their manufacture, through to their installation and maintenance. Its usage is applicable to a wide range of personnel from manufacturing technicians, those involved in sales and sales administration, customer service, education, historic conservators, legal professionals, investigators and arbitrators, those from the carpet cleaning and maintenance industry, specifiers and architects, installers, apprentices and trainees.
A really great working tool for anyone associated with the industry.

Standards and Test Methods for Textile Floor Coverings – Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA

By ITF Academy

A comprehensive listing of standards and test methods used in the 4 regions for Floor coverings.

Australian Carpet Classification Scheme Incorporating The Environmental Certification Scheme

By Carpet Institute of Australia Limited

Technical Guidelines.
The Australian Carpet Classification Scheme (ACCS) is a voluntary industry labelling and grading scheme for textile floor coverings manufactured in Australia or imported for use within Australia.

Floorcoverings Standard Symbols

By CEN (ITF Academy - 2013)

CLASSIFICATION STANDARD EN ISO 10874:2012 (see relevant product standards linked with EN ISO 10874:2012)
The symbols contained in this report are available for use on CEN tested products.

Textile Floorcovering – EU Ecolabel Award Scheme – User Manual

(ITF Academy - 2010)

The European Ecolabel is the voluntary ecological quality label stated by the European Union whose aim is to promote products that, during their whole life-cycle, have lower environmental impacts if compared to other ones. The label offers detailed, objective and scientifically based information on the key environmental impacts to the European and any other private or professional consumer or purchaser. The EU Ecolabel Award Scheme is administered by designated organisations called Competent Bodies (CBs) appointed by each Member State.

California Gold Sustainable Carpet Standard

By California Department of General Services (ITF Academy - 2006)

The California Gold Sustainable Carpet Standard has been designed, in part, to satisfy the following criteria:
– Demonstrate how carpet and rug products can conform to the environmental, economic, and social principles of sustainability throughout the supply chain.
– Demonstrate conformance with ISO Type 1 (14024) and Type 2 (14021) environmental labelling and declaration requirements.
– Demonstrate conformance with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims.
– Engender confidence in the various stakeholders (manufacturers, suppliers, regulators and consumers) that products labelled with a third party certification mark consistently meet the requirements of this program.

British Standards for the UK Carpet Industry

By David Whitefoot CText FTI (ITF Academy - 2018)

This excellent document explains the current situation regarding the testing and end-use classification of carpets and rugs as it affects the UK textile floor covering industry, listing all relevant standards and test methods and the standard floor covering symbols.

Index of ISO Standards and Test Methods – for Textiles, Textile Floor Coverings and Non-Textile Floor Coverings

By ITFA (ITF Academy - 2020 )

This is the definitive list of all ISO Standards that are relevant to flooring materials, both textile and non-textile, as published by the beginning of 2020. It is based on the best information available at the time of publication.
New for the 2020 issue of the Index of ISO Standards and Test Methods is Part 5, Other Useful Standards. This lists a number of ISO standards that are of importance to companies for production quality management, protecting the environment, meeting legal obligations and strengthening brands.
New versions of this Index will be published annually.

The science behind the wool industry. The importance and value of wool production from sheep

By Emma K Doyle, James W V Preston, Bruce A McGregor, Phil I Hynd (Animal Frontiers, Volume 11, Issue 2, March 2021, Pages 15–23, - May 2021)

This paper outlines the wool industry and highlights wool as a textile fibre. The wool industry has optimized the production of a niche product that has eco-positioned itself due to its inherent natural properties of being a natural, biodegradable product that offers consumer comfort and health benefits.

Wool – Photobleaching

By Wools of New Zealand edited/updated by ITFA 2018.

This report explains the phenomenon of ‘First Fade’ of wool textile floor coverings, caused by the fading of the natural colour of the wool fibre, commonly called ‘photobleaching’, when exposed to (sun)light.
The report also includes the factors that can affect the possible photobleaching of Wool.

Wool – Fibre Characteristics

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

As well as the obvious and frequently measured physical properties of wool fibres, which are important in processing (diameter, length, colour, bulk, etc.), wool has a number of basic characteristics which give wool its uniqueness and which influence its processing performance, versatility and product quality.
This report detail 14 key and influential properties that make up this unique fibre

Wool – Fibre Properties

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

The natural properties of Wool often great advantages, this report covers the key elements of testing the fibre for critical processing information. That being: Yeild, Fibre Diametre, Colour, Bulk, Fibre Length, Medulation and Lustre

Wool – Fibre Structure and Growth

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

An in-depth look at the Wool Fibre.
An excellent report covering, the Wool Follicle, Primary and Secondary, Pigmented Fibres, Structure of the Wool Fibre and Influences on Wool Fibre Growth and Quality.

Wool – Wool Scouring

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

A very good overview of the scouring process and opportunities for addition treatments at this early stage processing examined.

Wool – Selection and Blending of Wool for Carpet Manufacture

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

An excellent report on the key principles of blend selection. Although formulating a wool blend may seem to be a complex matter, the principles can be clarified by considering the six essential fibre properties governing processing characteristics and product performance and reviewing their relative importance for the carpet to be manufactured.

The Wool Book

By The Campaign for Wool (Margo Rodger Locust - 2012)

Celebrating the Worlds most versatile Natural Fibre, a design and resource guide

Spinning of Specialty Yarns – Felted Yarns

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2019)

An excellent technical paper on ‘non continuous’ felting.
Aqueous and solvent-based process for the batchwise felting of carpet yarns are described and the rub-felting processes are recommended for felting of slivers as well as yarns.
These various felting processes have different requirements for raw materials. Felted yarns are recommended for the production of coarse constructions of carpet (woven, tufted, or hand crafted) that perform well in use.

Spinning of Speciality Yarns – Heather, Tweed and Effect Yarns

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

Recommendations are given for the selection of raw materials for wool yarns in the non-plain category, and guidance is given for manufacturing these by blending methods. Attention is drawn to the availability of electro-mechanical methods for the manufacture of effect yarns.

Spinning of Speciality Yarns – Wool Yarns for Tufted Carpets

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

This publication considers the demands imposed on yarn at tufting, the implications of
different processing routes, and the role of yarn in the styling of tufted carpets. Guidance is
given on meeting these needs through wool blending, yarn construction and yarn finishing.

Spinning of Speciality Yarns – Wool Yarns for Woven Carpets

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

A detailed paper that reviews yarns for Axminster and Wilton (Wire and Face to Face)
The requirements for weaving yarns are outlined. Recommendations are given for wool blends, yarn constructions and general dyeing methods.

Spinning of Carpet Yarns – Yarn Scouring

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

An excellent detailed report on Scouring of carpet yarns. Scouring is recommended in order to retain wool’s high status as a soil-resistant fibre. Scouring must be thorough and uniform to avoid risk of soiling streaks in the carpet. Procedures are outlined for scouring wool carpet yarns in tape scours, the ANDAR/WRONZ TwistsetTM machine (formerly Chemset), hank dyeing machinery, and solvent processing machinery.

Spinning of Speciality Yarns – Conductive Yarns

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

In certain important cases, locations require higher standards of carpet conductivity than normal. This report details the essential information for combining various conductive fibres with wool carpet pile, and methods for making the backing conductive are outlined in good practical detail.

Spinning of Carpet Yarns – Yarn Bonding Technology

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

This ground breaking yarn technology has technically added another dimension to yarn setting and adds other special properties of benefit. In this paper utilisation of yarn bonding as a means of stabilising wool carpet yarns is reviewed, and recommendations are given for the appropriate processes and processing conditions. The various options for twist stabilisation and dyeing are discussed in some detail.

Spinning of Carpet Yarns – Twist Setting

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

Guidance on the engineering of yarns to be set is given; and the processing conditions for seven different twist setting processes are outlined.

Spinning of Carpet Yarns – Unconventional Methods of Yarn Production

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

A very interesting report. The woollen and semi-worsted processing routes are the mainstream methods for producing wool carpet yarns. Other systems, some very old and some new, are used on a smaller scale for minor niche areas of the carpet market. This publication records some unconventional systems for producing carpet yarns and may provide ideas for those looking for new products

Spinning of Carpet Yarns – Semi Worsted Spinning

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

The semi-worsted system is described, with special reference to its application in the carpet yarn industry. Conditions for limit spinning – often needed when producing yarn for face-to-face weaving – are defined.

Spinning of Carpet Yarns – Fibre Processing Aids

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

The available types of fibre processing aids for the production of wool carpet yarns on the woollen and semi-worsted systems are reviewed, and the needs for particular types of carpet yarn are considered. Attention is drawn to the influence of lubricant on several different aspects of the cost of producing wool carpet yarns.

Spinning of Carpet Yarns Part 1 – Woollen Spinning

By Wools of NZ (2002), edited and updated by ITF Academy (2018)

The woollen spinning system is a relatively short yarn manufacturing route, versatile in its requirements for raw materials and productive in the counts required for a wide variety of tufted, woven and knotted carpets. Woollen yarns can be used to produce good-performing carpets in medium gauges and pitches. The three essential steps of the woollen system – blending, carding and spinning – are described, with special reference to their application for producing wool carpet yarns. Advice is included on controlling the system for the production of quality yarns.