Scientists investigating correlations between fabric construction and frictional properties examined the effects of scouring and mercerization on fabric friction. The trace analysis of the stick slip friction property of fabrics revealed that scouring and mercerization processes induce structural consolidation, which can increase the frictional resistance, number, and amplitudes of the stick slip as well as the differential frictional forces of the fabric. A good linear relation exists between the values of objective and subjective roughness of fabrics on a logarithmic scale. Fabric roughness can be separated into two components related to prickliness: measurable as resistance to motion and surface contour, and measurable as number, amplitude, and pitch of stick slip peaks. 13 refs.