As far as knitting fair knows, Growing concern over the environmental and health impacts of textiles in general and denim, in particular, are putting pressure on companies to employ more sustainable production methods.
Every closet has at least one item of denim — whether it be blue jeans, a denim jacket, or vintage overalls that our grandparents used to wear. First used in the 19th century in the form of heavy work jeans, it has since become a wardrobe staple. From 200 pairs of jeans being sold, the number produced every year has risen to 6 billion. And at the rate the fashion industry is going, we’re on track to make billions more. But just how sustainable is denim production?
Blue is not so green
The fabric used to make denim clothing is cotton or some type of cotton blend. It is first harvested, separated into fibers, then put into bales. To make a pair of jeans, our denim fabric construction guide here on Textile School explains that the material undergoes a weaving process to make yarn, which is then dyed into indigo or other colors depending on the design.
The production of denim also involves several chemical washes to make them softer or more wearable and to eliminate shrinkage. Manufacturers can then put the clothing through different processes to produce specific styles, like distressed or faded jeans.
This production cycle of denim, from harvesting the raw material to packaging the final product, makes use of vast amounts of water. In fact, The Fashion Law’s rundown of water consumption in denim production shows that it takes 1,800 gallons of water just to grow the cotton that goes into a single pair of jeans. Moreover, 1.3 trillion gallons of water are used annually to dye fabric, including denim. This doesn’t even entail the water required to wash and produce special effects in a trendy pair of denim pants.
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Aside from the enormous consumption of water, denim production is also a known culprit in water pollution. About 70% of Asia’s rivers and lakes are contaminated by garment manufacturing, of which denim is a major contributor. The production cycle involves heavy use of chemicals that produce run-offs and end up in bodies of water. These chemicals, which include lead and mercury, are also toxic to workers and communities where factories are set up. These are all issues that the textile industry is currently facing, as explored by our Textiles: Environmental Issues and Sustainability report.
Sustainable production of denim
Growing concern over the environmental and health impacts of textiles in general and denim, in particular, are putting pressure on companies to employ more sustainable production methods. One example of these environmentally responsible practices is using a micro-irrigation system that can save water usage in the early part of denim’s life cycle.
Textile manufacturers can also switch to organic pesticides to minimize the chemical exposure of workers and reduce toxic waste drained into bodies of water. As for achieving the classic denim look, C&EN reports that digital printing has become available, which can serve as a more sustainable alternative to dyeing and similar techniques. It can help solve the environmental impacts of dyeing fabric, such as producing toxic waste and human exposure to harmful chemicals.
But consumers also have a role in making denim more sustainable. Textile manufacturers can actively encourage their clients to opt for more eco-conscious fabrics from the multitude of brands that have started popping up. They can also promote ways to repurpose unused clothing, and Pretty Me’s guide to denim upcycling proves that there are many creative ways to do this. Old blue jeans can be turned into floor cushions, patchwork rugs or quilts, stylish purses, and even stuffed toys for children to enjoy.
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The bottom line is that we all play a part in bringing sustainability to denim as it is traditionally harmful to the environment. Whether it’s finding creative uses for our old pair of work jeans or supporting sustainably made denim products, our individual choices will hopefully compel textile manufacturers to turn to more sustainable practices for the sake of our planet’s future. For more knitwear knowledge, please pay attention to the knitting fair.
Source: textiles school
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There are so many types of sewing machines out there. When you first start looking, you’re likely to become a bit flustered about which one to get. You might be wondering which sewing machine is right for you, but the knitting fair’s answer really depends on what you intend to use it for.
Before going any further, it’s best to mention that buying a sewing machine should be seen as a long term investment. You’ll want to slow down and think it through before making any sudden purchase.
Some machines might look like they have all the features you need or have the perfect price. However, it’s best to do some digging beforehand. You’ll want this machine to be around for a long time and create wonderful things with it, which you and your loved ones will appreciate.
Considering all this, it’s best to not be too stingy when purchasing one, as there might be cheaper options around. However, keep in mind that they’re cheap for a reason. The manufacturers have had to cut corners to reduce the price of the machine and as such we don’t recommend buying the cheapest option available.
Ask yourself these questions when you’re checking out a sewing machine as they’ll help you decide which machine will be the best fit for you.
What Sort of Work Can Be Done With It?
Firstly, you need to know what you want to do with your new machine. Will you be mending clothes you already have in your house? Or will you make curtains and other decorative covers with it? Can the machine be used to manufacture garments?
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For mending, you need a machine that has a free arm. This feature will allow you to position and move the fabric around to make your work more comfortable. Another useful feature is a blind hemming stitch and foot which allows you to move around dresses and pants while you’re mending them.
If you opt for a cheaper option, you might find that the machine won’t be powerful enough to sew thick fabrics like denim, or worse, it won’t be able to sew a thinner fabric properly either.
For making curtains, pillow covers, or cushions, it’s best to go for a model that has the ability to make automatic buttonholes. This will make your work look more polished. The machine should also be able to handle multiple layers of thick fabric at the same time.
To manufacture clothes, you need to have a machine that has all of the above-mentioned features. Some added features may include being able to stitch in different patterns, and having the ability to change the position of the needle, which is a must when sewing zippers.
Once you’re done sewing, you’ll want to lock the stitches in place so that they don’t fall apart, so look for an option called back-stitch for this.
How Much Will You Pay for It?
If you are short on cash for the one machine that may have stolen your heart, don’t worry! There’s always the option of buying a second-hand machine that will cost a lot less than a new one. Either way, you need to be able to buy the best machine within your budget.
If you’re buying a new machine, it’s best to visit a sewing machine dealership and talk with the owner. If they’re not available, find a salesperson; they may be able to help you find the right machine.
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If the dealership offers a tutorial on how the machine can be used, be sure to attend it as these can be very informative even for experienced users.
Don’t have any dealerships close to where you live? Just go to your local store and see what they have on offer. You might be surprised to see that last year’s best machine is now on sale.
If you find that there aren’t any good sewing machines within your budget, then don’t buy a lower-cost one. They might not last very long =and you’re better off buying a previously owned machine.
For second-hand machines, be sure to check your local thrift shop or online ads such as on Facebook. It’s best to check in-person to see whether the machine is in a workable condition.
Also, note that if in case something goes wrong, will the seller be willing to do any repairs? Lastly, be sure to clean the machine after you purchase it to ensure that it’s in prime condition.
Where Will You Keep the Machine?
One factor that needs to be thought about before purchasing a sewing machine is where you’ll be storing it. A heavy and large machine won’t be suitable for an upstairs bedroom. Aloud and noisy machine isn’t a good thing to be kept next to a sleeping toddler or someone who requires a lot of rest.
Sometimes, you cannot compromise on the size and weight of the machine. If you plan on working with thick pieces of fabric, a lighter machine that will have more delicate parts won’t be able to do the job.
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If you’re planning on traveling with the machine then this becomes completely different. You don’t want to be lugging around a large and heavy device. Just the thought of carrying it could become a reason for you to avoid using it.
You’ll want something light and compact and, as such, the type of fabrics you can use with them will have to be different too.
It’s always a great idea to have a hobby to create something. It keeps you productive and even allows you to share your creations with others. A sewing machine is the perfect appliance to help you with creating these things.
With the help of a decent sewing machine, you can gift your sewn clothing to your family or friends, wear them, or display them in your house with pride.
Let this machine bring you joy and let the process of buying it be just as enjoyable. For more knitwear knowledge, please pay attention to the knitting fair.
Source: textiles school
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