Tag: Textiles

fabric treatments through time: historical approaches to fabric softening & medicinal textiles

From ancient civilizations to early industrial societies, textiles have served not just to clothe the body but to comfort, heal, and soothe. Long before synthetic softeners and antimicrobial coatings, communities around the world developed natural methods for treating fabrics to enhance their texture and even their medicinal properties. This article explores the fascinating historical approaches… Read More fabric treatments through time: historical approaches to fabric softening & medicinal textiles

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how sensory textiles can be inspired by historical techniques

Textiles have always been more than just practical items—they are vessels of memory, emotion, and sensory experience. Throughout history, fabrics have been crafted not only to serve functional purposes but also to provide comfort, stimulate the senses, and express cultural identity. Today, with a growing interest in wellness, sensory design, and sustainable living, designers and… Read More how sensory textiles can be inspired by historical techniques

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threads of memory: the connection between storytelling textiles & heritage-driven design

There’s something so evocative about the phrase “threads of memory.” I love how it captures the way fabric can hold stories, a narrative—whether it’s a scrap of cloth from a loved one’s garment or a hand-stitched detail that has been passed down through generations. It reminds me that textiles are not just materials; they’re keepers… Read More threads of memory: the connection between storytelling textiles & heritage-driven design

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SLOP CLOTHING: THE ORIGINS OF BRITAIN’S FIRST READY-MADE WARDROBE

In the bustling markets and narrow streets of 18th and 19th-century Britain, a quiet revolution in clothing was taking place, one not of fashion, but of function. Known as slop clothing, this early form of ready-made apparel clothed sailors, soldiers, and the swelling ranks of industrial workers. Though rarely celebrated, slop clothing played a critical… Read More SLOP CLOTHING: THE ORIGINS OF BRITAIN’S FIRST READY-MADE WARDROBE

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Clothing the cotton mill workers: wages, wear, and tradition in industrial britain

As you know (if you follow my blog) I’m deeply fascinated by the Industrial Revolution, especially the textile industry, not only because of its profound impact on Britain, but also due to a personal family connection that inspires me to learn more. This period of dramatic change reshaped both landscapes and lives, driving progress while… Read More Clothing the cotton mill workers: wages, wear, and tradition in industrial britain

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Sustainable Materials: About Banana Fibre

Banana fibre is a sustainable textile derived from banana plant pseudostems, repurposing agricultural waste and minimsing environmental impact. It’s strong, biodegradable, and suitable for clothing, home textiles, and handicrafts. Additionally, it supports sustainable practices with minimal chemical processing and renewable resources, offering unique textures for various applications.… Read More Sustainable Materials: About Banana Fibre

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Colouring the Industrial Age: How Textiles Were Dyed Before Synthetics

During the Industrial Revolution, textile dyeing underwent significant transformations, transitioning from traditional natural dyes to the advent of synthetic alternatives. This period marked a pivotal shift in dyeing techniques, influenced by technological advancements and the demands of mass production. Traditional Dyeing Techniques Prior to the mid-19th century, natural dyes were the primary means of colouring… Read More Colouring the Industrial Age: How Textiles Were Dyed Before Synthetics

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understanding viscose: a fabric at the crossroads of nature and industry

Viscose is one of the most widely used semi-synthetic fabrics in the world, known for its silk-like texture, softness, and versatility. Often labelled as “rayon” in the United States, viscose has been a staple in fashion and textiles since the early 20th century. But what exactly is viscose, and how sustainable is it really? What… Read More understanding viscose: a fabric at the crossroads of nature and industry

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understaind dosing techniques: precision, sustainability, and practice

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, the way we measure, apply, and manage materials—what some call “dosing techniques”—can make a significant difference. Whether in natural dyeing, sustainable printing, or using resources mindfully in textile work, dosing isn’t just about quantity; it’s about intention and balance. This post explores how sustainable dosing techniques can help reduce waste, improve efficiency, and support more thoughtful creative practices. For anyone looking to make their craft more environmentally responsible, understanding how to dose materials sustainably is a valuable step forward.

… Read More understaind dosing techniques: precision, sustainability, and practice

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Sylvie Facon: The Dream Weaver of Couture Fantasy

When we think of haute couture, we often picture glamorous runways and lavish gowns — but few designers capture true storytelling through fabric quite like Sylvie Facon. A visionary French creator and fashion designer, Sylvie Facon doesn’t just sew dresses — she builds entire worlds out of textiles she often crafts herself. Every gown she… Read More Sylvie Facon: The Dream Weaver of Couture Fantasy

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