Five Sustainable Fibers You May Not Know About

Shopping For Chic Natural Clothing - Beyond Organic Cotton

Jan 16, 2009

Over the last few years, we have all come to know and love the benefits of organic cotton. What we may not know as much about is the world of new synthetic and plants.

The benefits of natural fibers ranging from better working conditions on the farm, no health risks to farmers and local wildlife, and supporting this home we call our planet earth.

Tencel

Tencel is the brand name used for a type of lyocell. According to LotusOrganics.com, "lyocell is a man-made fiber produced in an environmentally-friendly process from wood pulp...it is absorbent and comfortable for wear ,especially in high humidity. Lyocell also drapes attractively and is flattering in dresses and shirts."

PET/Recycled Polyester

This is a surprising little discovery that wears extremely well. A wonderful eco-friendly material that is made from recycled plastic bottles (that's right!) is quite versatile at being transformed into beautiful earth-friendly fashions. Nau.com, a company known for it's sustainable practices and respect for green elements in every step of the manufacturing process creates quite lovely clothing made from PET. According to NAU, 'Through mechanical and chemical recycling processes, we can produce soft, supple fibers from this scrap while using a fraction of the energy virgin yarns require.' See for yourself at Nau.com - Fabric Overview.

SeaCell

Seacell is a fiber made from a combination seaweed and wood pulp (lyocell). Said to absorb nutrients into the skin from the seaweed, seacell has become a favorite of eco luxury designers such as Linda Loudermilk. The fabric was originally designed in Germany and has been certified by the European "Eco-Label".

Jute

Being one of the cheapest natural fibres to produce it is easily adaptable to a variety of uses. Jute fibres are composed primarily of the plant materials cellulose (major component of plant fibre) and lignin (major components wood fibre). Because jute is a bit tougher to the touch, it is generally used for non-woven textiles such as shopping bags, furnishings, and placemats. When used for clothing, it is similar in look to a linen type of material. You can find a variety of jute products at Jute-Industry.com.

Ramie

Ramieis a plant grown in Eastern Asia and has been wonderful for creating clothing. Also known as "china grass", ramie has been used for clothes since at least 5000 - 3000 BC in Egypt. Ramie fibers are one of the strongest natural fibers. Ramie can be up to 8 times stronger than cotton, and is even stronger when wet. Because of it's durability, ramie has been used in everything from dresses, to shower curtains.

For a complete list of natural fibers that you've never heard of, check out Natural-Environment.com.

The copyright of the article Five Sustainable Fibers You May Not Know About in Natural Fabrics is owned by Elena Lipson. Permission to republish Five Sustainable Fibers You May Not Know About in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Jul 8, 2009 9:28 AM

Guest :

I have heard of most of these all natural/organic fibers, but the PET/Recycled Polyester is a new and facinating one for me. Who would've thougth my empty plastic water bottle could transform itself into a soft wearable garment. Now if I could only make my plastic reusables turn into the man of my dreams, I'd really have something to write home about! LOL
FYI, if any of your readers are looking for an organic fabric source, check out J&O Fabrics on the www. From stylish bamboo fabric to eco-friendly organic kona cotton, J&O offers a nice selection for your money.Thanks again for the new info!