Why We Don’t Sell Modal and Rayon Fabrics: A Deep Dive into Ethical and Authentic Handloom Clothing
At Handlooom.com, our commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and ethical practices drives every decision we make. This dedication means we avoid selling certain fabrics like modal and rayon, despite their popularity in the market. This blog will explore why we steer clear of these materials, the importance of true handloom authenticity, and the common pitfalls customers should be aware of when purchasing handloom products.
The Problems with Modal and Rayon
1. Environmental Impact:
– Modal: Although modal is often marketed as an eco-friendly fabric, the reality is more complex. Modal is a type of rayon made from beech tree pulp. While beech trees can be grown sustainably, the production process of modal involves heavy chemical treatments. These chemicals can be harmful to both the environment and the workers involved in the production process.
– Rayon: Rayon, including its variations like viscose and lyocell, is derived from wood pulp. The manufacturing process is resource-intensive and relies heavily on toxic chemicals, such as carbon disulfide, which can have severe health impacts on workers and lead to significant environmental pollution.
2. Lack of Biodegradability:
– Both modal and rayon, while derived from natural sources, undergo extensive chemical processing, making them less biodegradable compared to natural fibers like cotton, wool, or silk. This processing compromises the environmental benefits they might otherwise offer.
The Truth About “Handloom” Claims
1. Misleading Handloom Labels:
– Many products in the market today are labeled as “handloom” but are actually power loom fabrics with handmade block prints. This practice is not only misleading but also undermines the true value of genuine handloom products.
– Genuine handloom fabrics are known for their breathability, softness, and unique texture, which cannot be replicated by power loom products with merely a handmade print.
2. The Hand Block Printing Deception:
– A significant number of sellers market machine-made fabrics with hand block printing as handloom products. While the prints may be handmade, the base fabric is often produced on power looms, lacking the inherent qualities of handwoven textiles.
– This practice deceives customers into paying a premium for what they believe to be authentic handloom products, while the reality is far from it.
How to Identify Genuine Handloom Products
1. Verify the Source:
– Always ask for detailed information about the origin of the fabric. Authentic handloom products often come with a story about the weavers and the weaving process like our products with Digital Product Passports ( DPP).
– Look for certifications or labels from recognized handloom associations or organizations.
2. Inspect the Fabric:
– Handloom fabrics have a distinct texture and feel. They are generally softer and have slight irregularities that add to their charm.
– Machine-made fabrics tend to be more uniform and lack the unique characteristics of handwoven textiles.
3. Beware of Synthetic or Manmade Fibers:
- Polyester: Widely used but known for shedding microplastics and being non-biodegradable.
- Nylon: Durable but also sheds microplastics and is energy-intensive to produce.
- Acrylic: Often used as a wool substitute but has environmental and health concerns.
- Spandex (Lycra or Elastane): Adds stretch to fabrics but is synthetic and non-biodegradable.
- Rayon (Viscose, Modal, Lyocell): Although derived from natural sources, the extensive chemical processing makes them less eco-friendly.
- Acrylic: Used for its wool-like qualities but is not biodegradable and sheds microplastics.
- Acetate: Made from wood pulp but heavily processed with chemicals, making it less eco-friendly.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Used in some textiles but is highly toxic during production and disposal.
Avoiding these fibers can help ensure that your clothing choices are more sustainable and aligned with the principles of genuine handloom products.
– Authentic handloom products are made from natural fibers such as cotton, silk, wool, or linen. Be cautious of products claiming to be handloom but made from synthetic fibers.
– Synthetic fibers, even if woven by hand, do not provide the same comfort, breathability, and environmental benefits as natural fibers.
Spotting Fake Handloom Products
1. Too Good to Be True:
– Be wary of products priced significantly lower than typical handloom items. Genuine handloom products require considerable time and skill to produce, and this is reflected in their price.
2. Ask Questions:
– Don’t hesitate to ask sellers detailed questions about the product. Ethical sellers will be transparent about their sourcing and production processes.
3. Educate Yourself:
– Familiarize yourself with the characteristics of authentic handloom textiles. Understanding the differences can help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Conclusion: The Call for Authenticity
At Handlooom.com, we are dedicated to preserving the integrity of the handloom industry. We believe that customers deserve genuine, high-quality products that honor the tradition and craftsmanship of handloom weaving. By avoiding modal and rayon, and by educating our customers about the realities of the market, we aim to foster a more transparent and ethical fashion industry.
Remember, when it comes to handloom products, authenticity is key. Choose products that not only look good but also support sustainable practices and ethical craftsmanship. Demand transparency and settle for nothing less than the true essence of handloom.