Polymeric blends are used to create thermoplastic binders that wet out Cotton in selected temperature ranges. When applied as a fine particulate, as from an aqueous or foam treatment, then dried, the additives are carried with the binder as it wicks down the cotton fibers. Water-soluble additives can be applied durably since they are encapsulated in the thermoplastic binder. Applications include antimicrobials, anti-counterfeit tracers, chemical deactivators, optical taggants, etc. As an illustrative example, flame retardants are applied to create Multicomponent Flame Retardant Articles achieving three different levels of performance; a drapable non-smoldering fabric, a self-extinguishing felt-like fabric, and a cotton-faced 3-ply laminant with thin coatings of binder, that acts as a fire barrier.