If you’re on this page, there’s probably a pretty good chance you opt for natural fabrics in your sewing projects. After all, Nature’s Fabrics offers a wide inventory of bamboo and hemp fabrics.
With Earth Day upon us, you might wonder what other options are available. While we don’t always have all of them in our shop, it is still good to know about the various environmentally sound materials out there. Here’s what you need to know about the best eco-friendly fabrics and how they’re made.
1. Recycled Nylon
While there are a variety of ways recycled nylon fabric is made, the most common method utilizes old fishing nets and waste from textile manufacturing. Instead of these items ending up in a landfill or in our oceans, they’re remanufactured into fabric. While it isn’t the first choice for personal sewing projects, this type of fabric is used in bags, fashion accessories, and furniture.
2. Recycled Polyester
Another type of eco-friendly fabric is recycled polyester. Made from pieces of polyester that are chunked up, melted, and spun into yarn, the end result is a durable fabric that can be used for totes, outdoor furniture, and more.
3. Organic Linen
For those that love natural fabrics, you’ll be happy to know that organic linen is a very eco-friendly fabric. The creation process starts by growing flax, which is similar to grass. It grows very quickly and then is harvested. The fibers are spun into threads, while the oil from the leaves is used to create flaxseed oil. The end result is a fabric that is breathable, durable, and comfortable for apparel items.
4. Organic Hemp
Nature’s Fabrics is proud to offer organic hemp fabric within our inventory. The process of making this type of material starts with the growth of the cannabis sativa plant. Long strands of fibers are harvested from the stalk of the plant, which is separated from the bark during a process known as retting. Those fibers are then spun into threads, which are woven into fabrics. Since the plant itself grows very quickly with little need for water, it is one of the more sustainable practices out there.
5. Bamboo
Another popular option among our Nature’s Fabric customers is bamboo fabric. Most people enjoy that this eco-friendly material is ultra-soft and easy to use in your at-home sewing projects. It is made in a similar fashion as hemp, where the plant is harvested and then smashed into a pulp. That substance is then spun into fibers to create the final fabric product. Part of what makes this such a good option for the textile industry is that bamboo is the fastest growing plant in the world, making it easy to replace crop after crop without damaging the soil.
Eco-Friendly Fabrics Available Online
At Nature’s Fabrics, we’re proud to be your favorite online fabric store. We offer numerous eco-friendly options including bamboo and hemp fabrics in a wide range of colors and prints. Check out our current inventory for your next sewing project. Happy Earth Day!