Reed Mark Defect

Mechanical Origin

Warp threads are drawn through the gaps between reed wires, known as dents, in pairs or groups of three or four. If the reed wire is bent, or if the threads are grouped unevenly due to a threading mistake, the spacing between the warp threads becomes irregular. When the reed beats the weft yarn into place, these uneven gaps remain as open tracks in the fabric.

In linen, the stiffness of flax fibers makes these marks particularly prominent and resistant to the closing effect of wet-finishing processes.

Remedial Action

Mills must replace damaged reeds or re-thread the incorrectly drawn warp ends to eliminate the lines. If the defect covers a large area, the fabric is downgraded to seconds or used for applications where visual perfection is not required. This maintenance keeps the mill’s output aligned with buyer standards.