Understanding Textiles: Insights from Expert Harrie Schoots

Understanding Textiles: Insights from Expert Harrie Schoots

In a recent conversation, Maddie DeJong of Midori Apparel sat down with textile expert Harrie Schoots - past president of the AATCC and owner of textile consultancy Revive - to delve into the complexities of textiles, especially for those less familiar with the apparel industry. Here’s a recap of their informative discussion.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE: 

https://cdn.shopify.com/videos/c/o/v/c5dfedda8ba743329ba69f2503f46002.mp4

Q: What are the main categories of textiles?

A: Harrie outlined the primary categories of textiles, focusing on their end use rather than just material type. The main categories include:

  1. Performance Wear: This includes items like base layers (think Under Armour) designed for high performance.
  2. Athleisure: A blend of comfort and style, athleisure has surged in popularity over the last two decades, prioritizing easy care and comfort.
  3. Sleepwear: Similar to athleisure, these fabrics prioritize comfort but are designed for nighttime wear.
  4. Uniforms: These garments have specific functionalities tailored to professional settings.
  5. Swimwear: Swim fabrics are distinct due to their unique requirements for water resistance and durability.

 Q: Can you explain the difference between natural fibers and synthetic fibers?

A: Harrie explained the critical differences between natural and synthetic fibers. Natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, linen, and hemp, are derived from plants and animals, while synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon are created through polymerization processes in factories. The choice between these fibers’ impacts everything from dyeing processes to environmental sustainability.

Q: What is the significance of fiber choice in apparel production?

A: Selecting the right fiber is vital in apparel production. For instance, natural fibers typically require more water but less energy to dye, while synthetics often need higher temperatures and more complex machinery. This decision influences both the environmental impact and the overall quality of the final product.

Q: How should customers choose the right fabric for specific purposes?

A: When selecting fabrics, Harrie advises prioritizing the garment's intended use. Factors such as durability, tensile strength, and abrasion resistance should guide your choices. Customers are encouraged to research sustainability aspects and seek out suppliers who align with their values. Midori Apparel, for example, offers a wealth of resources on their website to assist in this process.

Q: What current trends are you seeing in the textile industry?

A: One of the most significant trends is the growing emphasis on sustainability. Many brands are now including detailed information about their products' environmental impact, such as water and energy usage, on hang tags and e-commerce pages. This transparency is driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable practices.

Q: How can consumers make sustainable choices and plan for circularity when choosing textiles?

A: Harrie highlighted the importance of asking suppliers about environmental callouts when purchasing textiles. Understanding the sustainability efforts of fabric suppliers can help brands make better choices for the planet.

Q: Can you touch on the Fibre52 technology and how/ why Midori Apparel customers can and should choose to use it?

A: Fibre52 is a patented enzymatic bleaching process that reduces water and energy consumption while improving the softness and strength of cotton. This method not only benefits the environment but also enhances the quality of the fabric. Clients of Midori Apparel should take advantage of the callouts and performance enhancements that Fibre52’s technology offers.

Q: Are there any common misconceptions that you encounter about textiles?

A: Harrie addressed several misconceptions in the textile industry, notably the notion that consumers should bear the entire burden of education about textile production. He believes both consumers and industry professionals need to bridge the knowledge gap. Additionally, there are misunderstandings about the safety of certain chemicals used in textiles, and he reassured that reputable brands, like Midori Apparel, adhere to strict safety standards.

Conclusion

Midori Apparel is committed to guiding customers through the complexities of textiles. Whether you’re new to the industry or looking to refine your knowledge, Harrie's insights provide valuable clarity on making informed choices in textiles.

For more information and resources, visit the Midori website and schedule a meeting with Midori Apparel to start exploring sustainable fabric options today!

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