Every once and awhile as we conduct research online for information, new innovations and stories within the textile industry to develop and share with you, we stumble on unique individuals and companies doing interesting and often times fascinating things with fabric around the world. One such company is Tosheka Designs.
Dear Netfah,
I am working on reusable bags for my kids and Xmas gifts, but heard a lot of the nylon, PUL (polyurethane) fabric and other stuff are not food safe. Any sugestions for ‘food safe’ fabrics or alternatives for my project?
Thank You
Leilane
Dear Leilane,
In the world of eco-friendly dyeing, there are several traditional and modern-day sources of coloring used to bring just the right energy and aura to a fabric. And whether you are a do-it-youself kinda crafter or are content with purchasing your material already naturally dyed, here is a list of some of the more common plant, animal, vegetable and/or mineral agents for those vibrant yellows, burnt oranges, indigo blues and deep reds that call out to us from across the fabric isles.
With all the talk of eco-friendly this, and go-green that, is it any wonder why being politically correct with our green living jargon is becoming seemingly more and more difficult? When it comes to the world of textile goods, this confusion doesn’t cease to exist, but hopefully with a little help from our Top 10 Eco-Friendly Textile Terms, it will make your next purchase of Earth friendly fabric just a little easier.
1. Biodegradable: fabric fibers that break down naturally with the assistance of microorganisms (ie cotton, linen, wool, silk)
2. Organic: free from harmful chemical pesticides and fertilizers; involving only natural animal and/or vegetable based ingredients.
30 copies of the ‘Financial Times’ folded and attached to a corset to create a ballerina inspired ‘tulle’ dress…
37 black logo tees cut up and hand stitched to create a long draped sheaf dress with corset waist and bustle…
42 pairs of Levi 501’s in various shades of indigo cut up and reconstructed to create a tiered ball gown with a corset waist…
These are just a few of the utterly creative, eco-friendly couture dresses designed and created by artist Gary Harvey. Recycling everything from laundry bags and Hawaiian shirts to rain coats and wedding dresses, this socially conscience fashion forward designer has found purpose in what is slowly developing into an ethical fashion revolution.
I have been in the fashion industry for over 20 years, and though it is a constant recycling of thoughts and ideas, I still find myself amazed at some of the creative and innovative designs, wearable textile goods, and fashion trends that evolve from the minds of men and women around the world. One such imaginative concept combining both technology and fashion, is sonic fabric.
There is something to say about the cycle of life and the return to the tried and true. Whether you are talking about health remedies, lifestyle practices, fashion, or even fabric. And with go-green and eco-friendly practices on the rise by mainstream consumers from Cali to NYC, more and more designers and textile industries are jumping on the bandwagon and taking it back to the basics with the use of natural fiber alternatives. As they do so, consumers gain more insight into just how far behind western culture is in comparison to the rest of the world in terms of sustainable living.
When I was a child, one of my favorite field day games at my school was the sack race. I remember the thrill of pairing up with my best friend as we climbed into that woven beige colored bag that would soon become our mode of transpo in a race to the finish line. Though somewhat rough to the touch, the burlap material I knew back then is not too different from the one that I use today for my unique one of a kind handcrafted bags. The difference, a little less abrasive, a little more color selection.
Top Ten Burlap Craft Ideas
Have you ever been to a clothing swap? If you haven’t you are really missing out on not only some great fun, but some great finds.
I was invited to my first one from a girlfriend of mine who shops at a private design boutique called Simply Netfah. It is a specialty boutique that carries beautiful wholistic clothing and accessories for women and every spring they hold a gathering at their place where invited clients gather among good food and good company, to exchange old and unwanted articles of clothing from their closets for new ones. It is the boutique owner’s way of giving back to Mother Earth through the encouragement of clothing recycling and sustaining her community through barter exchange.
