What does “sustainability” mean? Specifically, what does it mean in the context of the fashion industry, and, in our case, the yarn and fiber industry? Currently, there is a lack of scholarly research on the fashion industry’s environmental impact; nevertheless, it is clear that the industry is affecting the environment negatively and contributing to global climate change. Knitters are taking notice and selecting their yarns and fibers with more care than ever before.
It’s no surprise that knitters are leading the charge for sustainable yarn and fibers; after all, we choose our materials with care for garments intended to last for decades, if not generations. Seeking out conscientiously manufactured yarns is our natural evolution. Sustainable yarns are emerging as the next big trend, and I personally hope—and we should all hope—they never go out of style.
Last June, I attended The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA) conference and was delighted to see many yarn companies reveal ecologically friendly yarn for their Fall 2017 season. The seed for this issue was planted at that conference. I took notes, squirreled yarn away in my bag, and when I got home, began researching ecologically friendly yarn and fibers. Quite frankly, the results were dismal, and I wasn’t sure if an entire issue based on sustainable yarn was even possible.
So I broadened my definition of sustainable yarns and began researching yarns that help both people and the environment. It was a worthwhile compromise; the topic of sustainability is too important to set aside because the industry hasn’t caught up yet. The demand exists, and it’s up to the industry to meet those demands and expectations.
In knit.wear Spring/Summer 2018, we’ve ventured into the subject of sustainability. None of us on the knit.wear team can claim expertise on this complicated and far-reaching topic. However, with this issue, we begin a journey that makes sense for knit.wear, whose tenets are thoughtfulness and slow fashion. In our Verdant Vines story we’ve curated a collection of knits inspired by lush botanicals, all made in ecologically friendly yarn. In our Sea Blue story you’ll find elevated but wearable designs knitted in sustainable fibers for a spring resort getaway.
Read about Lynn Edens, the owner of Imperial Yarn and Little Creek Farm, to find out how falling in love with alpacas turned into a passion for sustainable farming. Take a look at our Swatching with the Editor yarn review to “meet” a few more ecologically friendly fibers and see our product pages for kits, books, and notions for the conscientious knitter.
As we begin the journey toward awareness, we hope that this issue of knit.wear fills you with both inspiration and food for thought. One small choice might seem futile on the grand scale, but our collective choices can pave the way for change.
With love,