Acrylic fibers are man-made using an acrylic compound,
which can be anything from synthetic plastics to oils.
The texture of the fibers can vary from soft and light
to a rigid tactile feeling.  Often the texture is similar
to that of wool, however.  You may wonder where
acrylic is used, but it is actually a very common fiber.
Acrylic can be seen in a variety of common objects
such as sweaters, socks, rugs, and tents.  For more
information about acrylic check out the links below.

M. Wing

http://www.britannica.com/eb/article?eu=3629&tocid=0
http://www.fcc.co.jp/JCFA/seni04_e.html