Fabric Files

Linen

Linen is a natural fibre, derived from the flax plant. It has a relatively short life span, only taking approximately 90 days from sow to harvest. The flax plant requires considerably less water and pesticides to grow, making it a more sustainable crop when compared to some other natural fibres. Linen is durable, hypoallergenic, antibacterial, absorbent, breathable and thermo-regulating. It holds dye well, which means smaller quantities can be used in the dyeing process. It may feel a little stiff upon your first few wears, but it softens over time. 

 

Cotton

Cotton is a natural fibre derived from the Gossypium Genus plant family (yes, this is a fancy scientific name for cotton). Cotton requires high volumes of water to produce – a whooping 2,700 litres to produce one t-shirt. Compare this to 6.4 litres for one linen shirt and the contrast is stark. Cotton is biodegradable, absorbent, soft and breathable. It is extremely versatile, making it one of the most highly produced fabrics in the world.

 

Wool

Wool is a natural fibre derived from the fleece of sheep. The first step in the production of wool is shearing the sheep to collect the fleece. Never fear, this does not harm the sheep! The fibres are then cleaned, sorted, combed and spun into yarn. The process of producing wool requires less water and energy than many other fabric types. Wool is renewable, biodegradable, odour resistant, absorbent and breathable. Wool is comfortable in all climates as it has the ability to draw and release moisture and heat. It is considered one of the most sustainable fabrics.

 

Hemp

Hemp is a natural fibre derived from the stems of hemp plants. It is a densely growing plant, which means it can compete with other plants or weeds that may be growing nearby and no herbicides are required. Hemp plants also naturally compel pests, eliminating the use of pesticides. Per hectare, hemp plants produce double the fibre content than cotton and requires very little water. Hemp is durable, antibacterial and breathable.

 

Tencel

Tencel is the trademarked brand name for Lyocell. Tencel is a type of rayon, made through a closed loop solvent process. This means no chemicals are leaked into surrounding ecosystems. The production process also requires less energy and water, when compared to other fibres. Tencel is breathable, antibacterial, biodegradable, absorbent and durable.