While natural fabrics are undoubtedly good for the environment, they also have a positive impact on you.
Environmentally sustainable, the majority of natural fabrics are biodegradable, moisture-wicking, breathable, durable, heat-responsive and naturally repellent to mold and dirt. Fibers such as cotton may also be grown organically, which, although more expensive to produce and purchase, ensure that pesticides and chemicals are not used in its production.
Natural fabrics are beautiful, environmentally sustainable and renewable. They come from trees, plants or animals, which can continue to be replaced, raised or regrown. Unlike many synthetic materials, natural options are biodegradable and decompose harmlessly. They are easily recycled and can be reused without harming the environment.
While technically not a natural fabric, Rayon is made from purified cellulose fibers, which are typically created from wood pulp. Though rayon is derived from natural materials, it requires certain chemicals, so it’s considered to be a semi-synthetic fabric. The silk rayon velvet I use on my throw blankets and pillows is some of the softest you will ever experience. It is heaven to the touch.
Linen is a textile made from the fibers of the flax plant. It was one of the first plants domesticated by humans and remains popular due to its unmatched natural properties.
Before sewing, all of the linen I purchase is washed and pressed for extra softness and that “lived in” feel. The linen used as the base for the Bubbe and Spirit Pillows has a heavier weight to it, giving it a natural, rustic feel and greater durability.
The “Soft Velvet” fabric used in some of the pillow covers and throws is so soft and smooth that you will never want to stop stroking it. The characteristically short and dense pile gives this fabric the typical velvet handle, but with added softness. Velvet is actually a type of weave as opposed to a material in itself. It can be made from any yarn or fiber. The fabric I use is a synthetic blend printed with non-toxic inks in an environmentally-conscious facility.
My stuffed pillows contain a silk-like polyfil which is hypoallergenic and incredibly soft. I do not use down or feathers for humane reasons. Though it is almost impossible to be 100% eco- friendly, I do strive for the most humane and ecologically sound materials and practices available.
My printed fabrics are made to order so there is no excess or stock. Nothing winds up in a landfill. Fabrics are printed onsite in facilities that keep their carbon footprint low. The printing process is water-free and the inks are eco-friendly. Any usable excess fabric is repurposed.
Though I strive to use as many natural fibers as possible, there are times when the best option is man made. Faux fur is, by nature, a man made fabric, but a better alternative than real fur. When I create my velvet throw blankets there are instances where I will choose a synthetic velvet because it provides the best sensual experience. In these instances my focus is on working with companies that have high standards in their printing and manufacturing practices. Hopefully there will come a day when a greater variety of all natural fabrics are more widely available.
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