What is the difference between snagging and pilling?

 

1. Snagging: Snagging occurs when a fabric's yarn or fibers get caught on external objects, leading to the formation of loops, pulls, or tears. It typically happens due to interactions with sharp objects, rough surfaces, or mechanical forces. Snagging can occur during normal wear, handling, or when fabrics come into contact with abrasive materials or sharp edges. The visible effect of snagging is the presence of pulled threads or visible damage on the fabric surface.

 

2. Pilling: Pilling refers to the formation of small, unwanted balls or clusters of fibers on the fabric surface. These pills are generally caused by the entanglement or gathering of loose fibers during use. Pilling can be triggered by friction between fabrics and other surfaces (such as clothing rubbing against upholstery), repeated mechanical actions (like sitting and standing), or washing and drying processes. Pilling is more common in fabrics made from staple fibers or those with loose yarn structures. It affects the appearance of the fabric, making it look worn, fuzzy, or less smooth.

 

In summary, snagging involves the fabric getting caught and damaged by external objects, resulting in pulled threads or tears, while pilling refers to the formation of small fiber balls on the fabric surface due to loose fibers entangling with each other. Both snagging and pilling can affect the aesthetics and longevity of textiles, and manufacturers implement various methods to enhance fabric resistance against these issues.