NightMist wrote:
algin
alginate
Alginic acid
Sodium alginate

Alginate is an extract of various seaweeds.
It has a ton of uses. In textiles it has been spun into water soluble
threads, used as a soluble foundation for embroideries, used as a
size, included in starches, and used as a thickener in both dye
painting and textile printing.
By far printing is the largest use of alginates in the textile
industry.
Most soluble threads and sheets available in retail are PVA
(polyvinyl-alcohol), which has better storage qualities.

OT note: Alginates are also used in dental impression material - you
know the yucky pink or blue stuff you bite into for getting crowns etc
just the right size and shape. Can't think of a textile link to tie in
with that though.

Lizzy