Pine flannel industry in Kiravia

The wood fibres of a certain species of pine plentiful in the hemiboreal belt and certain highland regions of Great Kirav can be spun into a thread and woven into cloth with similar properties to woolen flannel, which was found to be quite comfortable and sanitary. The manufacturing process was invented in 1877 AD by paper mill worker Tomáus Karrik of Serikorda and protected under K.F. Patent № 7,469. Pine flannel quickly became a profitable industry (especially after Karrik's patent was invalidated six years into its term for minor informalities in the application paperwork), and pine flannel mills soon stretched across the upper latitudes of Great Kirav from Fariva to Lataskia. More were established in Porfíria, becoming that colony's first truly modern manufacturing business. Pine flannel was popular for use in skirts, kilts, and shirts, and blankets (especially for use in hospitals and inns, as it was believe to be more pest-resistant), and was incorporated into the uniforms of colonial and provincial militia units.

The industry faltered in the early 20th century AD under pressure from superior synthetic fibres, and it declined as a driver of employment due to improved automation. Kirosocialist policies prolonged the life of the industry, with surviving pine flannel mills (now nationalised) relied upon to make up for shortages of other textiles due to reduced trade and the government's disastrous attempt to collectivise sheep raising. After reunification, the pine flannel industry could not compete with synthetics and foreign imports, nor could it attract sufficient investment to finance the pursuit of new business models. Over 80% of pine flannel mills operating in 1984 shut down by 1994, devastating many small towns in the inland Northeast and Upper Kirav. A handful of mills are still getting by, churning out flannel for sale as a niche product for tourist gift shops and people allergic to wool.