When people think of sewing, they often picture older women quietly stitching away, filling their days with a leisurely hobby. But this stereotype couldn’t be more outdated! Sewing is a complex, skill-rich activity that has surprising parallels to high-pressure professional environments like finance, management, accountancy, and academia. In fact, the skills honed in sewing are not just artistic—they’re deeply practical and transferable to various professional roles. It may just be the skillset to need to gain an edge over your professional rivals.
If you’ve ever sewn a garment from scratch, you’ll know that it’s about much more than just putting fabric together. Sewing requires strong project planning, organization, problem-solving, mathematical competence, and the ability to focus for long periods—just like many of the skills demanded in professional careers. In this blog post, I’ll show you exactly how sewing sharpens the same skills needed for success in the workplace.
In recent years, sustainability has become a hot topic in the fashion and crafting worlds. Whether you’re a seasoned sewist or a beginner with a needle and thread, learning to sew sustainably can have a lasting, positive impact on the environment. By making mindful choices, you can reduce waste, upcycle materials, and craft unique, long-lasting garments that are both beautiful and eco-friendly. Here are some top tips to make sure you’re sewing sustainably:
1. Choose Natural and Organic Fabrics
When selecting fabrics, opt for natural fibres such as cotton, linen, hemp, or wool, which are biodegradable and have a smaller environmental footprint compared to synthetics like polyester or nylon. However, not all natural fabrics are created equal. Look for organic certifications, such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) to ensure that the fibres are grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals. OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN labelled products can be tracked as our label provides supply chain traceability, ensuring that each step – from production to the final product – is built on rigorous testing standards. Organic fabrics may be slightly more expensive, but they are kinder to both the environment and your skin.
2. Upcycle and Repurpose Materials
One of the most effective ways to sew sustainably is by upcycling. Instead of buying new fabric, why not repurpose old clothes, bed sheets, or charity shop finds? Vintage fabrics can give your projects a unique flair, and you’ll reduce textile waste by breathing new life into otherwise discarded items. Jeans can become stylish bags, and old curtains can transform into a chic summer dress—your creativity is the only limit!
Deadstock fabric arises for many reasons i.e. overproduction, manufacturers cancelled orders, cat walk designs that didn’t make it to mass production, end-of season, etc and would otherwise be thrown away into landfill. Many fabric retailers are selling it now so start every fabric search with ‘deadstock’ and you’ll be amazed at what you can find for a bargain price.
3. Buy Only What You Need
We’ve all been guilty of buying too much fabric because we “might need it later.” But over-purchasing leads to unnecessary waste. Before you head to the fabric shop, plan your projects and make a list of the exact materials you need. This way, you’re less likely to accumulate a pile of unused fabric that could eventually end up in landfill. Most patterns are fairly generous in the amount of fabric they instruct you to buy. With a little bit of experience you’ll be able to come up with alternative cutting layouts so you can buy less then the recommended amount. You can use Scrap fabric for smaller projects like patchwork, accessories, or even as stuffing for cushions.
4. Use Eco-Friendly Sewing Tools
Sewing sustainably isn’t just about the fabric; it’s also about the tools you use. Consider switching to biodegradable or recycled materials for your tools. Wooden or bamboo sewing needles and buttons, thread made from recycled plastic bottles, and metal pins are all great eco-friendly alternatives. It’s worth noting, however, that wooden and bamboo needles are primarily used for hand embroidery, knitting, and crochet projects, as they tend to be thicker and work well with yarns. For finer sewing, metal needles are still the only option due to their precision.
Opt for reusable metal bobbins instead of plastic ones (check your sewing machine requirements first). You’ll probably only need around 12-20 bobbins. There’s no need to wind a bobbin full of every thread colour you own then store them together with those little clips (more unnecessary plastic). You can wind a bobbin with the thread you’re going to need for your project, then re-fill that bobbin for the next project.
This doesn’t mean throwing out everything and buying again though. If you’ve already got plastic items, then keep them until they really need replacing and buy more sustainably next time.
First and foremost though, be mindful about what sewing gadgets you actually need. The shops are full of what haberdashery companies make you believe are essential, but are they really? People have been sewing sustainably, creating beautiful, professional-quality items for over 100 years without having lots of gadgets. It’s the skill you develop in sewing that gives the high-quality finish. See my blog post To have or have not’ for my guide to essential sewing tools.
For example, one of the latest must-have gadgets is the ‘hot ruler’. I admit to only learning recently this was ‘a thing’. Apparently it’s a piece of thin plastic that you can iron over, for which they will relieve you of up to £9.99. It’s use is for pressing hems, but I’ve managed to survive through my long sewing career using a piece of card from a cereal box with a few guidelines drawn on. Not only is this adaptable (you can draw whatever measurement you want on it, and just add a new one as required, but it also doesn’t retain heat and can be picked up immediately after ironing. The plastic ones are too hot to touch for up to a minute after ironing over.
Try to avoid single-use products like fabric marking pens; chalk pencils (trad-style wooden ones) are more sustainable. Although chalk pencils are my favourite marking tools, I have a fondness for heat-erasable (iron-off) pens and the wash-out ones so I’ll need to change my behaviour.
5. Focus on Quality, Not Quantity
Fast fashion encourages over-consumption and waste, but sewing allows you to focus on creating high-quality, durable pieces. Instead of churning out multiple garments, focus on making fewer items that are well-crafted and will last for years. Choose classic styles that can be worn season after season, and make sure your seams, hems, and finishes are strong. This mindset shift from quantity to quality will ensure that your handmade garments are cherished for years to come.
6. Mind Your Waste
During any sewing project, scraps and offcuts are inevitable. However, instead of tossing them into the bin, collect them for future use. You can use even the smallest bits for patchwork or stuffing. You could also donate excess fabric to schools, charity organisations, or other sewists who might put them to good use. There are an increasing number of ‘Zero-waste’ patterns around, where you use every part of the fabric. However, the styles are quite ‘blocky’ and rectangular and don’t suit everyone. Personally they’re not for me. I don’t see the problem in having fabric left-overs if you use them in other projects. Check out my range of creative textile workshops such as ‘Scrappy Patchwork Cushion’ or ‘Rags to Riches’ for imaginative ways to use your scraps.
Conclusion
Sewing sustainably is not only rewarding but also a significant step towards reducing your carbon footprint and promoting mindful consumption. By making thoughtful choices about the materials and tools you use, and by focusing on upcycling and quality, you can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future—one stitch at a time.
The Health Benefits of Sewing: Nurturing Mind, Body, and Soul
In a fast-paced world dominated by screens and constant connectivity, finding a hobby that nurtures both mind and body can be a game-changer. Sewing, a timeless craft that has been passed down through generations, offers a myriad of physical and mental health benefits. From honing new skills to fostering creativity, from promoting mindfulness to building social connections, sewing is much more than just a way to make clothes or home decor. It’s a holistic activity that can significantly enhance your well-being.
1. The Brain Boost of Learning New Skills
Engaging in sewing provides a fantastic workout for your brain. Learning to sew involves understanding patterns, measuring fabric, and following complex instructions, all of which require cognitive skills. This process helps in:
– Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills: Figuring out how to fix mistakes or alter patterns improves your ability to think critically and creatively.
– Improving Memory: Remembering various sewing techniques and steps can enhance your memory and cognitive function.
– Boosting Concentration: The detailed nature of sewing requires focus and attention, which can improve overall concentration in other areas of life.
2. Physical Benefits: Keeping Active
While sewing may not be as physically demanding as some other activities, it still offers significant physical benefits:
– Fine Motor Skills:Handling needles, thread, and fabric enhances hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
– Posture and Core Strength: Sitting properly while sewing encourages good posture and can help strengthen your core muscles.
-Hand Dexterity: Repeated movements involved in sewing can improve the dexterity and flexibility of your hands and fingers.
3. Creativity and Project Planning
Sewing is a perfect outlet for creativity. Whether you’re designing a new dress or crafting a quilt, the process allows you to express yourself through colours, fabrics, and designs. This creative process involves:
– Project Planning: From choosing patterns to selecting materials and colours, sewing projects require planning and organization, which can improve your ability to manage tasks and see a project through to completion.
– Innovative Thinking: Sewing encourages thinking outside the box, especially when it comes to customizing designs or repurposing old materials.
4. Sense of Well-Being and Achievement
Completing a sewing project, whether it’s a simple pillowcase or an intricate garment, provides a profound sense of achievement. This accomplishment can:
– Boost Self-Esteem: Successfully finishing a project enhances your confidence and sense of self-worth.
– Provide a Sense of Purpose: Working towards a tangible goal gives a sense of purpose and direction, which can be incredibly fulfilling.
5. Mindfulness and Distraction from Problems
Sewing offers a meditative quality that can be a powerful tool for mindfulness. The repetitive motions and focus required can:
– Reduce Stress: Focusing on the task at hand can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety levels.
– Provide a Healthy Distraction: Engaging in sewing can distract you from everyday worries and problems, offering a therapeutic escape.
6. Social Benefits: Classes and Friendships
Sewing can also be a social activity, providing opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests. Attending sewing classes or joining sewing groups can:
– Foster Community: Building connections with fellow sewers can create a sense of community and belonging.
– Encourage Collaboration: Sharing tips, ideas, and resources with others can enhance your skills and provide a support system.
– Create Lasting Friendships: Meeting people with similar passions can lead to meaningful and lasting friendships.
Conclusion – 6 reasons why sewing is good for you.
Sewing is a multifaceted activity that nurtures both mental and physical health. It sharpens cognitive skills, enhances creativity, promotes mindfulness, and provides a sense of achievement. Additionally, it offers a unique opportunity to build social connections and foster community. Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a beginner, picking up a needle and thread can be a rewarding and health-boosting endeavor. So, why not give it a try? Your mind, body, and soul will thank you.
Man-made fibres, distinct from synthetic fibres, are derived from natural sources, typically plants, and undergo extensive processing to be transformed into usable textiles. This guide delves into their origins, processing methods, properties, benefits, drawbacks, and environmental impact.
Origins of Man-Made Fibres
Man-made fibres are created from naturally occurring polymers found in cellulose, which is extracted from plant sources such as wood pulp, bamboo, and cotton linters. Key types include:
Rayon (Viscose): Made from wood pulp treated with chemicals to create a fibre that mimics the properties of silk.
Lyocell: Derived from wood pulp but uses a more environmentally friendly solvent in its processing.
Modal: A type of rayon made from beech tree pulp, known for its softness and high absorbency.
Cupro: Created from cotton linter (the short fibres near the seeds), processed to produce a silky fibre.
Processing into Usable Textiles
Cellulose Extraction: The cellulose is extracted from plant sources and purified.
Dissolution: The cellulose is dissolved in a chemical solution to form a viscous liquid.
Spinning: The viscous liquid is extruded through a spinneret to form long fibres.
Regeneration: The extruded fibres are solidified by coagulation in a chemical bath, regenerating the cellulose structure.
Washing and Bleaching: The fibres are washed and often bleached to remove impurities.
Cutting and Finishing: The fibres are cut to the desired length and treated to enhance properties such as dye affinity and softness.
Properties of Man-Made Fibres
Softness: Often softer than many natural fibres.
Absorbency: High moisture absorption, making them comfortable to wear.
Breathability: Good air permeability, enhancing comfort.
Drape: Excellent drapability, providing a smooth, flowing appearance.
Versatility: Can be engineered to mimic the properties of various natural fibres.
Pros of Man-Made Fibres
Versatility in Textures: Can be made to resemble silk, cotton, wool, and other natural fibres.
Enhanced Performance: Improved qualities such as increased strength, durability, and softness.
Cost-Effective: Often cheaper to produce than some natural fibres.
Consistent Quality: More uniform in quality compared to natural fibres.
Cons of Man-Made Fibres
Chemical Processing: Involves the use of chemicals, which can be harmful to the environment if not managed properly.
Less Natural Feel: Some man-made fibres may not have the same tactile qualities as their natural counterparts.
Environmental Concerns: The production process can be resource-intensive and polluting.
Environmental Impact
Manufacturing Process
Resource Use: Uses natural raw materials, but the chemical processing can offset some environmental benefits.
Energy Consumption: Energy-intensive processes, though typically less than fully synthetic fibre production.
Chemical Pollution: Potential release of harmful chemicals during processing, though advancements like closed-loop systems in lyocell production mitigate this.
Disposal
Biodegradability: Generally more biodegradable than synthetic fibres but still dependent on specific fibre type and processing.
Recycling Challenges: Limited recycling options due to the chemical treatments and mixed fibre compositions.
Sustainable Alternatives and Practices
Closed-Loop Systems: Technologies that recycle water and solvents in the production process, reducing environmental impact.
Eco-Friendly Fibres: Development of fibres like lyocell, which use less harmful chemicals and more sustainable processes.
Sustainable Sourcing: Ensuring the raw materials are sourced from responsibly managed forests and plantations.
Consumer Awareness: Promoting sustainable fashion choices and proper disposal methods.
Conclusion
Man-made fibres offer a blend of natural origins and engineered performance, providing a versatile and cost-effective alternative to purely natural and synthetic fibres. While they bring numerous benefits to the textile industry, their environmental impact warrants careful consideration and ongoing efforts towards more sustainable production and disposal practices. By understanding and addressing these impacts, we can make more informed choices that benefit both our wardrobes and the planet.
Natural Fibres: Sources, Processing, and Environmental Impact
Natural fibres have been integral to human civilization for millennia, providing materials for clothing, textiles, and other essential goods. With increasing awareness of sustainability and environmental impact, the use of natural fibres has garnered renewed interest. This article delves into the various natural fibres, their sources, harvesting and processing methods, environmental impact, properties, and end uses, as well as their biodegradability and recyclability.
Sources of Natural Fibres
Natural fibres are derived from plants, animals, and minerals. The most common natural fibres used in the textile industry include:
Cotton: Sourced from the cotton plant’s seed hair.
Wool: Obtained from the fleece of sheep.
Silk: Produced by silkworms spinning their cocoons.
Linen: Made from the flax plant’s stalk.
Hemp: Extracted from the hemp plant’s stalk.
Jute: Derived from the jute plant’s stem.
Bamboo: Processed from bamboo grass.
Alpaca: Harvested from the fleece of alpacas.
Angora: Collected from angora rabbits.
Camel: Sourced from the undercoat of camels.
Yak: Obtained from the undercoat of yaks.
Harvesting and Processing into Yarns
Cotton
Harvesting: Cotton is picked either manually or using machines.
Processing: It undergoes ginning to separate fibres from seeds, carding to align fibres, and spinning to create yarn.
Wool
Harvesting: Sheep are sheared once or twice a year.
Processing: Wool is cleaned (scoured) to remove lanolin and impurities, carded, and then spun into yarn.
Silk
Harvesting: Silkworms spin cocoons, which are then harvested.
Processing: Cocoons are boiled to kill the pupae and unwind the silk filaments, which are then spun into yarn.
Linen
Harvesting: Flax plants are pulled from the ground.
Processing: Retting (rotting) breaks down the plant stalk, fibres are extracted, cleaned, and spun into yarn.
Hemp
Harvesting: Hemp is cut or pulled from the ground.
Processing: Retting and decortication separate fibres from the stalk, followed by spinning into yarn.
Jute
Harvesting: Jute plants are harvested by hand.
Processing: Retting, stripping, and spinning processes create yarn from the fibres.
Bamboo
Harvesting: Bamboo stalks are cut down.
Processing: Bamboo is mechanically crushed and enzymatically treated to extract fibres, which are then spun into yarn.
Alpaca
Harvesting: Alpacas are sheared once a year.
Processing: Fleece is cleaned, carded, and spun into yarn.
Angora
Harvesting: Angora rabbits are gently combed or sheared several times a year.
Processing: The fibres are cleaned, carded, and spun into yarn.
Camel
Harvesting: The undercoat is collected during the moulting season.
Processing: Fibres are cleaned, carded, and spun into yarn.
Yak
Harvesting: The undercoat is collected through combing or shedding during the spring.
Processing: Fibres are cleaned, carded, and spun into yarn.
Environmental Impact of Growing and Processing
Cotton
Water Use: Highly water-intensive, especially in regions with irrigation.
Chemicals: Heavy pesticide and fertilizer use.
Impact: Soil degradation, water pollution, and high carbon footprint.
Wool
Water Use: Moderate, mainly for washing.
Chemicals: Pesticides for parasite control, detergents for scouring.
Chemicals: Some chemical treatments in fibre extraction.
Impact: Renewable resource, biodegradable.
Alpaca
Water Use: Low.
Chemicals: Minimal chemical use.
Impact: Low environmental impact, biodegradable.
Angora
Water Use: Low.
Chemicals: Minimal chemical use.
Impact: Ethical concerns about animal welfare, biodegradable.
Camel
Water Use: Low.
Chemicals: Minimal chemical use.
Impact: Low environmental impact, biodegradable.
Yak
Water Use: Low.
Chemicals: Minimal chemical use.
Impact: Low environmental impact, biodegradable.
Properties, Pros, and Cons of Natural Fibres
Cotton
Properties: Soft, breathable, absorbent.
Pros: Comfortable, widely available.
Cons: Environmental impact, shrinkage.
Wool
Properties: Warm, elastic, absorbent.
Pros: Insulating, moisture-wicking.
Cons: Can be itchy, prone to shrinkage.
Silk
Properties: Luxurious, strong, shiny.
Pros: Smooth, hypoallergenic.
Cons: Expensive, delicate care.
Linen
Properties: Strong, breathable, absorbent.
Pros: Durable, cool to wear.
Cons: Wrinkles easily, less elastic.
Hemp
Properties: Strong, durable, breathable.
Pros: Resistant to mould, softens with wear.
Cons: Can be coarse, limited colour options.
Jute
Properties: Strong, coarse.
Pros: Biodegradable, cost-effective.
Cons: Not as soft, limited use in apparel.
Bamboo
Properties: Soft, breathable, antibacterial.
Pros: Renewable, biodegradable.
Cons: Chemical processing concerns, durability issues.
Alpaca
Properties: Soft, warm, hypoallergenic.
Pros: Lightweight, strong, less prickly than wool.
Cons: Higher cost, limited availability.
Angora
Properties: Extremely soft, warm, lightweight.
Pros: Luxuriously soft, high insulation.
Cons: Ethical concerns, requires blending with other fibres for durability.
Camel
Properties: Warm, soft, durable.
Pros: Excellent insulation, less greasy than wool.
Cons: Higher cost, limited availability.
Yak
Properties: Warm, soft, strong.
Pros: Comparable to cashmere, durable.
Cons: Higher cost, limited availability.
Environmental Impact of Disposal
Natural fibres generally decompose more easily than synthetic fibres. However, the rate of decomposition varies:
Cotton, Linen, Hemp, Jute, Bamboo, Alpaca, Angora, Camel, Yak: Biodegradable and compostable under the right conditions.
Wool: Biodegradable but can produce methane during decomposition.
Silk: Biodegradable but may require specific conditions.
Recycling options for natural fibres are also expanding, with many fibres being repurposed into new textiles, insulation, and other products.
Conclusion
Natural fibres offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials, with diverse applications and generally lower environmental impacts. However, considerations around water use, chemical treatments, and biodegradability are crucial for making informed choices. By prioritizing natural fibres and supporting sustainable practices, we can contribute to a more environmentally friendly textile industry.
Synthetic fibres have revolutionized the textile industry with their versatility and cost-effectiveness. Derived primarily from petrochemicals, these fibres offer a range of properties suited for various applications. However, their production and disposal raise significant environmental concerns. This article explores the different types of synthetic fibres, their properties, pros and cons, production processes, environmental impacts, and challenges in recycling.
Types of Synthetic Fibres
Polyester
Nylon
Acrylic
Spandex (Lycra)
Polypropylene
(There are many more but there are the most common ones).
Derivation and Production Process
Polyester
Derivation: Derived from petroleum-based chemicals, mainly ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid.
Production: Polymerization creates polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is melted and extruded into fibres.
Nylon
Derivation: Made from petroleum products, primarily through the polymerization of caprolactam or hexamethylene diamine and adipic acid.
Production: Polymerized into nylon 6 or nylon 6,6, melted, and extruded into fibres.
Acrylic
Derivation: Derived from acrylonitrile, a petroleum-based compound.
Production: Polymerization of acrylonitrile, followed by extrusion into fibres.
Spandex (Lycra)
Derivation: Made from polyurethane, a synthetic polymer.
Production: Polymerization of diisocyanate and polyester/polyether, resulting in a stretchable fibre.
Polypropylene
Derivation: Derived from propylene, a by-product of petroleum refining.
Production: Polymerization of propylene, followed by extrusion into fibres.
Properties, Pros, and Cons
Polyester
Properties: Durable, resistant to shrinking and stretching, quick-drying.
Cons: Sensitive to heat, non-biodegradable, can degrade over time.
Polypropylene
Properties: Lightweight, resistant to chemicals and moisture.
Pros: Insulating, quick-drying, resistant to mildew.
Cons: Low melting point, non-biodegradable, can be less comfortable.
Energy and Water Consumption in Production
Synthetic fibre production is energy-intensive, often requiring high temperatures and complex chemical processes. The production of polyester, for example, consumes significant amounts of energy due to the high-temperature polymerization process. Water use is generally lower than natural fibres, but the chemicals and dyes used can lead to water pollution.
Environmental Impact
Manufacture
Pollution: The production process releases greenhouse gases and pollutants, contributing to air and water pollution.
Energy Use: High energy consumption due to reliance on fossil fuels.
Chemical Use: Use of toxic chemicals in production and dyeing processes.
Disposal
Non-biodegradable: Synthetic fibres take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to landfill overflow.
Microplastic Pollution: Fibres shed during washing can enter waterways, harming marine life.
Recycling Challenges: Difficult to recycle due to mixed fibre compositions and degradation of quality during recycling processes.
Conclusion
Synthetic fibres, while offering durability and versatility, present significant environmental challenges from production to disposal. The reliance on fossil fuels, high energy consumption, and issues with biodegradability and recycling underscore the need for more sustainable practices and innovations in fibre production and waste management.
Image: Polyester fibres under a microscope (Dreamstime.com)
This comprehensive overview addresses the origins, properties, and environmental impact of synthetic fibres, providing valuable insights into their role in the textile industry and the associated sustainability challenges.
The range of sewing machines available is huge and it can be incredibly confusing trying to choose one, whether for yourself or someone else.
If you’ve not yet done any sewing, then you’ll probably not know anything about machines. You’ll likely choose the most basic ‘starter’ machine in the shop because you’re ‘just a beginner’. And after all, they all do the same thing. Right?
Overlockers used to be a little known tool limited to factories, professional dressmakers or very keen amateurs. But probably because of exposure on TV programmes and social media, they’ve experienced an explosion in popularity in the last few years. They are now very much an essential tool for many home sewers. However, they’re not so easy to use ‘out the box’ than sewing machines and require the user to develop a whole new set of skills. Not surprisingly, there’s a lot of confusion about their use. I’ve written this Beginners’ guide to overlockers to answer many of the most common questions and dispel the myths. Note: In the USA, overlockers are known as sergers.
Artisan Stitch has won Sewing Provider of the Year 2024/25 in the Scotland Prestige Awards, the 3rd consectuive year I've won a Scotland Prestige Award and the 8th award in 5 years.