Our Process
At the core of WeaverBird’s model are its values of social upliftment, empowerment of artisans and farmers, fair wages and environmental sustainability. The cloth is produced with the principles and practices of ecology, sustainability and with minimum of carbon foot prints.
Making organic cotton fabric is a mindful process. Each step is a conscious practice.
- Soil preparation: The soil is ploughed by animal or tractor to loosen it, readying it for sowing.
- Seeds: Non GM cotton seeds of the “hirsutum“ variety are sown.
- Cotton growing: Seeds are sown and cotton is harvested after 210 days. Our cotton is grown in villages near Rajkot, Gujarat.
- Ginning: The raw cotton is first processed in local ginning mill to separate the lint and the seeds.
- Hand spinning: The yarn is spun on Ambar Charkha, largely by rural women and this is a steady source of employment for them.
- Natural dyeing: The Yarn (or fabric) is dyed using colours derived from natural resources. The bark, leaves, roots of certain plants and some minerals are used. This is traditional knowledge that has been practiced through ancient times. Natural dyeing technique uses very less water compared to chemical dyeing. The water is not contaminated by chemicals and it is safe for the environment. The dyes are not harmful and 100% biodegradable.
- Hand weaving: Weaving is done on a handloom. This is another industry that generates huge employment across rural India.
- Herbal washing: The Fabric is washed with soapnut, a natural detergent and softener. This again is safe for the environment as compared to chemical bleaching.
- Design: Aesthetically designed for comfort and style.
- Manual stitching: Each piece is meticulously stitched on a sewing machine.
- Embellishments: Hand embroidered, Use of natural accessories such as wooden and shell buttons.
