We’ve been doing some deep thinking here at Bolt. Deep thinking about rayon/viscose. We’ve decided, because of environmental and ethical issues with the manufacture of rayon, to cut back on our rayon purchases. You might notice fewer rayon prints, both new and deadstock, available to purchase. We will still be purchasing some of our rayon “staples” - both Brussels Washer Solids and Yarn-Dyed as well as Rayon Linen Slub - because they are popular and inexpensive.
Read MoreToday we’ll be venturing into the world of GOTS Organic Certification! What does GOTS Organic certification mean? Most organic textiles are certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which partners with organizations including Oregon Tilth and the Organic Trade Association for certification. GOTS certification includes both environmental and social criteria, and a general standard of at least 70% organic fibers (explained below).
Read MoreAll about OEKO-TEX certification and the OEKO-TEX certified products we carry at Bolt! OEKO-TEX is a collective of 18 independent research and test institutes committed to the testing and safety assurance of textiles around the world. They offer six different textile certifications, including Standard 100. Standard 100 generally refers to the testing of the hundred (and growing!) most potentially harmful compounds for both humans and the earth. The independent OEKO-TEX certified institutes around the world test every component of a piece of clothing or textile for the presence of both regulated and non-regulated substances.
Read MoreIn the ever-expanding world of sewing and fiber arts, it can be hard to keep up with industry standards and textile production jargon. Over the course of the past several years, we have been able to source and stock more and more fabrics that have been lauded as “sustainable,” but our community wants to know - What makes a fiber sustainable? Are certain substrates more sustainable than others? How do certifying bodies like GOTS and OEKO-TEX come into play?
Read More
