Consumers' Buying Practices, Uses, and Preferences for Fibers in Retail Piece Goods Survey

Buyers of retail piece goods said in a nationwide telephone survey they preferred fabrics made with permanent press finish, knit construction, and polyester fiber because they are easy to care for and need little or no ironing. Purpose of the sample survey was to examine attitudes that affect purchasers' selection and use of materials made from agricultural products or synthetic fibers. Areas explored included preference for woven, knit or pile fabric, preference for fabric with or without permanent press finish, sewing habits, type of store in which material is normally purchased, awareness of and experience with washable wool, and reaction to a new permanent press concept.