After kids everything changed for me. As I slowly became a “crunchy” momma I grew concerned with all the chemicals I was using in my home and my art. I slowly switched our family to a greener and more eco-friendly lifestyle. I was influenced by both birth/parenting and art. Reading about Natural Family Living with Mothering magazine’s Peggy O’Mara, about natural dyes in India Flint’s beautiful art books and eco-fashion books “Sustainable fashion and Textiles” by Kate Fletcher and “Eco Fashion” by Sass Brown.
Eco Friendly Sewing tips:
- Reuse and recycle old clothing and textiles
- Mend and repair
- Use organic and sustainable fabrics and notions whenever possible
- Keep it local
- Look for Fair trade and ethical production
- Avoid chemical dyes, instead use plant based, low impact and non toxic dyes
Slow fashion to me is all about intention and creation. I want to know as much as I can about where everything I make comes form and to take care in all aspects of my creative process. I’m not perfect by any means but I try to source sustainably, create with care and make it all last. I want to know who’s making my fabric and that they all are treated well and compensated fairly for the goods I’m buying. I want to leave the earth better for my children and their children.
Fabric + Dye Sourcing:
When I purchase fabric I look for sustainable business practices and certifications, organic and natural fibers, as well as deadstock fabrics that designers are getting rid of, often at discounted prices. Thrift stores and antique shops can also be great sources for beautiful textiles.
