Fabrics With an Eco Edge

With the current influx of eco-conscious fashion collections, the demand for sustainable and organic fabric is increasing. The recently opened Los Angeles–based textile company ENVIROfabrics is hoping to fill the void while simultaneously providing the option of purchasing small minimums. Linda Loudermilk, Grass, Weekendz Off, Tianello and Peligrossa are among the companies working with ENVIROfabrics.

ENVIRO offers organic cottons, bamboo and bamboo blends, hemp, soybean/cotton, Modal and Modal blends, and Tencel and Tencel/cotton blends, as well as organic cotton denim, woven bamboo and linen. Currently, 80 percent of the products offered are knits, which are made in Los Angeles. The remaining 20 percent are wovens, which are produced overseas, including organic denim from Turkey and linen novelties and bamboo from China. PTT-recycled polyester and milk-fiber textiles are also in development.

Distributing to apparel manufacturers in the United States and Canada, the company will initially offer both fabric prepared-for-garment dye and an impressive color range featuring an array of soft pastels and a group of vibrant hues. ENVIRO is able to offer customers dyeing of small color minimums on knit offerings, and the company has s also partnered with a local garment dyer with 20 years of experience in the business for those who require a garment dyer with experience working with specialty fibers.

Jerseys and 2 x 1 ribs made from hemp, bamboo and bamboo blends are expected to be popular for upcoming seasons. For Fall 2008, ENVIROfabrics is developing a group of sweater-type knits in vibrant jewel tones. ENVIROfabrics is based at 2222 E. Olympic Blvd., unit B, Los Angeles. For more information, call (213) 623-4886 or visit www.envirofabrics.net.—Dena Smolek