African-American Inventors In The Textile Industry

As our nation observes the Juneteenth holiday and the 1865 emancipation of the last remaining enslaved people of African descent in the US,  their many contributions to the textile and fashion industries are celebrated as well. To join in the commemoration, here are a few such African-American inventors who as a result of their creative visions and tenacious Spirits, have made our lives as dress makers and textile artisans just a little bit easier.

Inventor: Sarah Boone

Invention: Ironing Board

Patent Number: 473653

Patent Date: 4/26/1892

J&O Fabrics Rules of Thumb When Shopping for Fabric

When considering fabric for your next dress, suit, or apparel project, there are some basic rules of thumb to remember. Take a moment to check out J&O Fabrics list of suggestions for the next time you go shopping for fabric that will make your purchases worth while.

 

Rules of Thumb When Shopping for Fabric

 

Rule #1

A successfully chosen garment fabric will compliment the pattern design

  • To determine a fabric’s suitability for a pattern, check the pattern envelope. Illustrations on the front show fabrics appropriate for the design; the envelope back lists suggested fabrics chosen by the designer.

Her Name Is Indigo.

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When we think about African fabric design, rarely do we as consumers give much thought as to the history, craft, and meaning behind the symbols, patterns, or design elements we see. Instead we ‘ooh‘ and ‘aah‘ at the bright colors and creative print, thinking about what we can make with this, what we can do with that . But until we have the opportunity to see its manifestation from concept to completion, we will never really appreciate the finished textile  that seems to silently whisper…i am special, buy me!

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Go Green Gina’s: Natural vs Synthetic Dyeing on Fabric

In the world of eco-friendly dyeing, use of natural dyes and is not always enough to ensure its benefits over harsher, chemical based dyeing techniques. From the dye source, to the final step of color retention, much can occur in the manufacturing process that environmentally conscious consumers need to be aware of before purchasing what is considered to be a ‘safe’ fabric.