Silk is often weighted in order to achieve a fuller body in light fabrics. Weighting involves steeping the yarn in a solution of tin salts, followed by drying. This process imparts greater fiber strength and improves the fabric body and drape. Excessive weighting, however, can damage the fibers and reduce tear strength and abrasion resistance. Weighted silk is found in home furnishings and apparel, especially silk ties. The tin salt particles break when the fabric is flexed, creased, or bent. The fabric then becomes thin and separates in these areas.