[Jaded]

It depends on what the fiber is made of. Polyester fibers tend not to shed except on raw edges. If it was the lining of the jacket the jacket would be ripped. There is spun polyester, usually used in thread though.

Natural fibers tend to shed alot. It also depends on the size of the fiber. That is long-staple or short-staple, which refers to the length of the fiber that is spun to make the thread used in the weaving process. Long-staple thread is more durable because the twisted fiber is longer, thus strong. Short-staples tend to shed more because of all of the short ends used in the spinning process. Clear as Mudd?

[mommya]

I don't think it's from the jacket - cuz they'd be able to show that the inside of the jacket was damaged.

[connectthedots]

You are correct about polyester fibers usually not being staple. Acrylic, on the other hand, is almost always a staple fiber and crimpled so that is has a soft feel and appearance like wool. 1.5-3.0 inches would be very common for acrylic fibers.