Fiber Reference Image Library

The Fiber Reference Image Library (FRIL) is a database of images of textile fibers acquired through the use of multiple microscopic techniques, and was created with support from the National Center for Preservation Training and Technology (NCPTT). FRIL contains comparative images of textile fibers examined using brightfield, darkfield, polarized light, and differential interference contrast techniques; each sequence of these images provides complementary information contributing to identification and characterization. Associated text provides description of details in the images and concerning the textile source of the fiber. The site is organized into collections of Plant, Animal, and Manufactured fibers; subcollections include images of fibers from 18th through 21st century garments from Ohio State University’s Historic Costume & Textiles Collection.

FRIL Collections

Animal

Manufactured

Plant