Nylon is the one of the most common polymers used as fiber. Nylon is found in clothing all the time, but also in other places, in the form of a thermoplastic. Nylon was developed as synthetic substitute for silk. Silk is harvested from cocoons made by silkworms. Silk is a protein, like all proteins it is a polypeptide. Nylon is also called as polyamides.

It has high resistance to insects, fungi, molds, mildew, rot and many chemicals. This fiber melts instead of burning. Nylon's first real success came up with its use in women's stockings, in about 1940. It was needed to make war materials like parachutes and ropes. But before stockings or parachutes the very first nylon product was a toothbrush with nylon bristles.

These yarns have shine and greater elasticity. They are used in carpets and nylon stockings.