The process of siroset was developed with the CSIRO. Invented in 1957 by Arthur Farnworth of the CSIRO - it is the chemical treatment of woollen fabrics to give a permanent-press effect and allowed woollen fabrics to remain internationally competitive with synthetic fabrics in the market.
Hypodermic Syringe in the Cutting Room
A very important role is played by the humble hypodermic syringe in our trousers cutting room. The si-ro-setting of the front pleat or crease must be spot on. Probably we are the only pants maker in the world who go to the trouble of si-ro-setting through up to the waistband. Early on, to mark the inside of the lay in the exact position on which this crease should form was a slow tricky process. Pleasant Hill then developed a method, which was simple and effective, and world class. First a smooth drill similar to a knitting needle was used to drill through the layers of cloth in such a manner as to part the yarn but not the fabric. A hypodermic syringe, filled with chalk solution, was then inserted into the hole made by this special needle, and the hole filled with chalk solution. When dry, the result is a tiny white dot showing exactly where the presser should end his pleat. After pressing, this white dot disappears entirely and so does the little hole - Hey Presto.
Do You Know or FJ Staff Bulletin 25.10.1965
