Khadi, Natural Dyes & Block-printing are our passion - This is why :)
All our designs for our inhouse label of clothing “Awear social re-design” are made by hand weavers. My taste runs to the more rustic woven cloths that have a subtle texture- the handwork involved is obvious in the subtle variations of the hand spun thread and the small changes in tension that happen as the weaver goes through the day.
What can be the charm of khadi could also drive someone nuts, it does have little slubs and bumps in it sometimes, there can be subtle differences in tension of the weave from weaver to weaver. However, this is something I find absolutely charming as the fabric tells a story.
What makes khadi production even more beautiful is that when done ethically, it produces much needed work in poor rural communities.
Our label uses natural dyes because we want to protect waterways and protect producers and the community from toxic chemicals.
“With landfill and plastics at the forefront of our minds, dyeing is often overlooked when it comes to fashion’s impact on the environment. But our desire for colour is quite literally toxic, and plays a key role in the argument for more sustainable style.” (https://www.vogue.com.au/fashion/news/5-ways-to-fix-fashions-biggest-pollution-problem-dye)
Due pollution caused by textile production, the river Noyyal in India is so contaminated it has been rendered useless for other purposes, in fact it is so bad that its not even suitable for irrigation.
Villages downstream from Tirupur on the Noyyal are the worst affected. Perfectly arable land has turned barren though there’s no shortage of water. In fact there is an abundance of it. Its just polluted.
Our philosophy is that clothes that do this kind of harm are ugly, no matter how aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
Our clothing is beautiful in every way that matters - visually and the way it feels on your skin, but most importantly it is kind to the environment and those making it. Our clothing is special. And thus requires special and kind treatment, such as gentle washing in cold water and drying in the shade. Doing this you will get years of wear.
Natural and non-toxic dyes will fade gracefully over time. Indigo will still rub for a wash or two and will slowly fade. We assure you though, that they will fade gracefully with age. We use AMA Herbal GOTS certified natural dyes for reliable quality.
The block prints we use are water based, solvent free printing inks, they are permanent. All block printing is done by hand. Minimal water is needed to clean up after printing.
Artisan made, environmentally kind clothing is a display of love that flows between the maker and the consumer. It creates employment, improves quality of life and preserves cultural skills that have been passed down for generations. It improves social design, and that’s what our label is all about.
Lots of love,
Yvie :)
Owner, dreamer and doer @ Aware...the social design project
