As artists, we at Robert Kline Art believe that creativity shouldn’t come at the cost of our planet. That’s why we’re passionate about exploring sustainable options in every aspect of art, including the fascinating world of millinery.
This guide is dedicated to all hat lovers and makers out there. We’re diving deep into the world of eco-friendly millinery supplies, ensuring your creations are as kind to the environment as they are stylish. Join us as we uncover the origins of these materials and discover how choosing sustainable options can make a real difference. Let’s make hats that we can be proud to wear, knowing they’ve been crafted with both beauty and responsibility in mind.
Sustainable Millinery Supplies: From Fibers to Blocks
Sourcing sustainable materials can be a challenge. To help, I’ve curated a list of my favorite eco-friendly millinery supplies. These range from natural fibers and dyes to ethically sourced tools and vintage treasures.
1. Millinery Grosgrain: A Classic Ribbon with a Sustainable Twist
Millinery grosgrain, with its signature ribbed texture, is a staple in hat making. Opting for grosgrain made from sustainably sourced cotton and viscose rayon ensures your creations are both beautiful and environmentally sound.
Why It’s Sustainable: Look for grosgrain made with cotton sourced from regulated farms and viscose rayon produced from sustainably managed forests. Judith M Millinery Supplies offers a beautiful range of colors and widths.
Expert Tip: “When sourcing grosgrain, inquire about the manufacturer’s dyeing processes,” advises Emily Carter, a textile expert at the Fashion Institute of Technology. “Choosing dyes that meet REACH regulations ensures responsible chemical usage.”
2. Shellac Stiffener: A Natural Resin for Hat Shaping
Shellac, a resin derived from the lac bug, is a natural and renewable alternative to synthetic stiffeners.
Why It’s Sustainable: Shellac is a natural resin, making it a biodegradable and renewable resource. “Shellac harvesting actually benefits the environment,” explains Dr. Sarah Miller, an entomologist specializing in sustainable agriculture. “The process helps control pest populations and promotes tree health.”
Where to Find It: Hats by Leko offers shellac in both powder and liquid form.
3. Natural Dye Kits: Embrace the Beauty of Plant-Based Colors
Unleash your creativity while minimizing your environmental impact by exploring the vibrant world of natural dyes. These kits provide all the essentials to transform your hat materials with colors derived from plants, roots, and other natural sources.
Why It’s Sustainable: Natural dyes offer a low-impact alternative to chemical dyes, reducing water pollution and waste.
Where to Find It: The Love of Colour offers a stunning range of natural dye kits.
Natural Plant Dyes Color Range 15th c
4. Sinamay Straw: The Versatile and Sustainable Fiber from the Philippines
Sinamay, a natural fiber derived from the abaca plant, is a popular choice for its lightweight yet durable qualities.
Why It’s Sustainable: Recognized by the United Nations as a “Future Fiber,” abaca cultivation promotes sustainable farming practices and provides livelihoods for communities in the Philippines.
Where to Find It: Judith M Millinery Supplies offers sinamay in various lengths and colors.
5. Merino Wool Felt: A Natural and Renewable Choice for Hat Bodies
While the search for a truly vegan felt suitable for millinery continues, 100% merino wool felt stands out as an ethical and sustainable choice.
Why It’s Sustainable: Wool is a natural, renewable, and biodegradable fiber. Merino wool, known for its softness and quality, comes from sheep breeds raised with high welfare standards.
Where to Find It: Hats by Leko offers a variety of merino wool felt hat bodies.
6. Buntal Straw: Handwoven Elegance from the Buri Palm
Buntal straw, derived from the sustainably grown buri palm in the Philippines, adds a touch of handcrafted elegance to hat creations.
Why It’s Sustainable: The cultivation and weaving of buntal straw support traditional craftsmanship and provide income for local communities.
Where to Find It: B Unique Millinery offers a range of buntal straw hat bases and materials.
7. Toquilla Palm Straw: The Heritage of Ecuadorian “Panama” Hats
Toquilla palm straw, meticulously woven in Ecuador, is renowned for its lightweight and breathable qualities.
Why It’s Sustainable: The toquilla palm is a rapidly renewable resource, and its cultivation supports local communities in Ecuador.
Where to Find It: The World Hat Company offers authentic toquilla palm straw hats.
8. Nutria Fur Felt: A Sustainable Alternative with a Responsible Approach
Nutria, also known as coypu, has reemerged as a sustainable alternative to traditional fur felts.
Why It’s Sustainable: Nutria are an invasive species in many regions, and their use in the fashion industry helps manage their populations while providing a durable and luxurious material.
Where to Find It: Sunrise Hat Supplies offers nutria fur felt hat bodies in various weights.
9. Hat Blocks: Sustainably Sourced Wood for Essential Tools
Hat blocks are indispensable tools for shaping hats, and choosing blocks made from sustainably sourced wood ensures your craft aligns with your values.
Why It’s Sustainable: Opt for hat blocks crafted from wood sourced from responsibly managed forests, certified by organizations like the PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification).
Where to Find It: Guy Morse-Brown offers a range of hat blocks made from sustainably sourced European lime.
10. Vintage Deadstock Supplies: Giving New Life to Millinery Treasures
Embrace the spirit of sustainability by incorporating vintage and deadstock millinery supplies into your creations.
Why It’s Sustainable: Choosing vintage reduces waste and adds a unique touch to your hats.
Where to Find It: Petershams offers a curated selection of vintage millinery treasures.
Conclusion
Choosing sustainable millinery supplies is not just a trend – it’s a responsibility and a privilege. By understanding the origins of our materials and supporting ethical producers, we can make choices that benefit both our craft and the planet. At Robert Kline Art, we invite you to join us on this journey towards more conscious creativity. Explore these eco-friendly options and discover the joy of crafting hats that are as beautiful as they are sustainable.
We would love to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences with sustainable millinery supplies in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore Robert Kline Art’s website for more inspiring ideas and handcrafted treasures.