Abstract
This research investigated the changes that occur in the physical properties and in subjective hand evaluation of the individual component layers and the fused fabric systems as a result of treatments that simulate garment wear and dry-cleaning process. The Kawabata Evaluation System was used to measure the mechanical properties of the test materials and a quantitative analysis methodology was applied to assess the subjective measure of the hand and the durability properties of the test materials. Results showed that fusible interlinings in garments contributed to the retention of mechanical properties of hand qualities of fused composites after simulated wearing actions and dry-cleaning processes. They showed that polyester rich nonwoven interlinings were superior to any other interlining from the standpoint of the shape retention property.