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High-Frequency Fabrics Align with Sustainable Practices for Soft, Beautiful Clothing
In the vibrant tapestry of the fashion industry, the threads that make up the clothes you place against your skin extend beyond mere aesthetics. Threads are capable of weaving narratives of sustainability, ethics, and environmental consciousness. With the rise of eco-conscious consumers, brands are increasingly turning to certifications and labels to showcase their commitment to sustainability. When you wear high-frequency clothing, your body will appreciate it, and so will the planet. Dawn Furk of DMF Designs Explains Greenwashing, Ethics and Environmental Awareness for Clothing Amidst the ocean of labels, the distinction between genuine sustainability and greenwashing can often be confusing. Here is more about fabric labeling, exploring major certifications like GOTS and Oeko-TEX, and shedding light on the significance of high-frequency fabrics in the context of sustainable fashion. Decoding GOTS and Oeko-TEX Certifications, Natureworks chooses Organic over Oeko-Tex Why do certifications matter? If you are focused on wearing garments that are ecologically sound and environmentally conscious, it helps to understand the role of certifications. Certifications validate a brand's sustainability claims. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Oeko-TEX are two prominent certifications that uphold stringent criteria to ensure environmentally and socially responsible textile production. GOTS certification encompasses the entire textile supply chain, from harvesting of raw materials to the finished product, ensuring the use of organic fibers and adherence to fair labor practices. Oeko-TEX certification focuses on the safety of textile products, testing for harmful substances and chemicals throughout the manufacturing process. The most common certification is OEKO-TEX Standard 100, which guarantees that all aspects of a textile are free of 100 harmful chemicals. While both certifications offer valuable assurances to consumers, understanding the nuances between them empowers individuals to make informed choices that align with their values. Why Greenwashing is a Threat to Truly Sustainable Practices Amidst the proliferation of sustainability labels, greenwashing is all-too common. Greenwashing refers to the deceptive practice of conveying a false impression of environmental responsibility.Greenwashing often involves the misuse of ambiguous terms and vague claims to mislead consumers into believing that a product is more sustainable than it actually is. In the realm of fashion, greenwashing can manifest in various forms, such as exaggerated eco-friendly claims or token gestures that mask unsustainable practices. To combat greenwashing, consumers can equip themselves with a critical mindset, interrogating brands' sustainability narratives and scrutinizing the veracity of their claims. Beware of viscose bamboo as this is not certified clean of harmful pesticides. Natureworks By Dawn Furk Champions High-Frequency Fabrics Natureworks adheres to authenticity in the realm of sustainable fashion. The company distinguishes itself by exclusively carrying high-frequency fabrics, which demonstrate the essence of eco-consciousness. But what exactly does this entail? High-frequency fabrics encompass a spectrum of natural fibers, including linen, organic cotton,hemp and wool. These fibers are derived from renewable resources and boast eco-friendly attributes. For instance, organic cotton does not use synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, promoting soil health and biodiversity. Similarly, wool is biodegradable and possesses inherent properties such as breathability and insulation, making it a sustainable choice for winter and cold-weather garments. Embracing Natural Fibers for Sustainability on the Planet Natureworks commitment to high-frequency fabrics is built upon a profound appreciation for the intrinsic value of natural fibers. Unlike synthetic counterparts, which are derived from petrochemicals and contribute to microplastic pollution, natural fibers offer a renewable and biodegradable alternative. The cultivation of natural fibers often entails lower water consumption and carbon emissions compared to synthetic fibers, further mitigating the environmental footprint of textile production. By championing natural fibers, Natureworks carefully vets the clothing carried in its clothing lines with products that always represent sustainable fashion, prioritizing environmental stewardship and ethical integrity. Knowledge Empowers Consumers in the Age of Sustainability As conscientious consumers, navigating sustainability labels and certifications can be daunting. However, armed with knowledge and discernment, we possess the agency to discern between genuine sustainability and greenwashing. By interrogating brands' supply chains, scrutinizing their environmental and social impact, and prioritizing products crafted from high-frequency fabrics, we seek to spur meaningful change in the fashion industry. We are choosing to weave a tapestry of sustainability, one thread at a time. In conclusion, awareness of fabric labeling, juxtaposed with the insidious practice of greenwashing in the fashion industry, give Natureworks by Dawn Furk motivation for creating and paving a new reality. Through Natureworks commitment to high-frequency fabrics, we provide a narrative of authenticity, integrity, and environmental consciousness. Our brand Natureworks carries only high-frequency fabrics: natural fibers, linen, silk, organic cotton and wool. You can find our clothing line here: https://www.natureworksdesign.co/collections/naturewears, including fuzzy slippers and soft pajamas created for comfort with sustainable fabric.
Learn moreFeng Shui and Minimalism
In interior design, feng shui and minimalism are coexistent concepts. They are not the same, but they are pursuant of the same objectives, the creation of a comfortable, livable space. Taking a moment to consider the goal, impact and appeal of the two interior design concepts will make it simple to understand how the two efforts not only can coexist, but are vital to the completion of each other’s mission. Feng Shui Feng shui is the Chinese law of energy derived from the proper alignment of physical elements in a space. The goal is balance and harmony between a person and their environment. While “harmony’’ is the goal in feng shui applications, it is “balance” that creates the harmony. The balance comes from understanding the expanse and limitations of the space involved, then placing physical elements within that space that enhance the impact of each other piece within that space. Thus comes the balance. Think of a stack of pennies. The more pennies you place upon the stack, the more difficult the balance becomes. The same is true of feng shui. Balance requires at least two elements, and each additional element adds to the challenge of maintaining balance. Therefore, while feng shui encourages limiting physical elements out of the requirement of maintaining that balance, the art comes from being able to add an element without upsetting the balance. The application of feng shui is NOT driven by symmetry, but there is a coexistent thought there as well. Symmetry requires equal and identical use of space on two sides; feng shui requires a balance of elements within a space. No one who practices feng shui in their interior design will argue against minimalism. “Less is more”’ plays into the application of feng shui just as it is the guiding principle of minimalism. Minimalism Minimalism is the goal of creating a space that includes only the essentials and leaves wide swaths of open space. Minimalism aims at reducing visual stimulation by concentrating on monochromatic design. Minimalism designs allow for limited and functional furniture, limited and uncomplicated wall coverings and smooth paths from one side of the room to the other. Minimalism provides the same joy that comes from drastically cleaning out an office, bedroom or closet. Leaving only that which is necessary creates a sense of freedom within a person’ spirit. The heart opens wide when entering a room uncluttered with unnecessary stuff. Feng Shui and Minimalism To consider the impact of feng shui and minimalism working together in interior design, let’s first consider how they differ. To the space occupant, feng shui is almost entirely subconscious in its effect. Harmony is not something that one can see; it is a characteristic of space that one feels. A room with proper feng shui feels balanced so that the occupant can live in the space without the fear of upsetting the sense of contentment that exists due to the room design. Minimalism has a visual effect that is consciously absorbed while providing another element of calm within the subconscious. Put simply, one can “see” minimalism in a design, while feng shui is only “felt”. Think of a room overcrowded with furniture, plants, bookshelves, lamps, tables and all of the items that sit upon or within those surfaces. Our first words to describe such a room is “busy”. The goal of interior design for a comforting living space is to take away the “busy’’ that comes with everyday work life and replace it with a calm that comes from fewer items to live with (minimalism) and every item being in its proper place in relation to the other items in the space (feng shui). Feng shui and minimalism are the coexistent components that make a living space livable.
Learn moreBiophilia - The Draw of Nature
There is a reason you were always drawn to that room, in your home, school or library, with mahogany walls or paneling, and the smell of natural wood throughout. That reason is biophilia. “Biophilia” was a word first used to describe man’s innate desire for self-preservation. But the meaning was expanded in the late 1970s by biologist Edward O. Wilson to “the rich, natural pleasure that comes from being surrounded by living organisms.” The human body responds positively to the sense of being surrounded by nature, even when the surroundings are interior. At the same time, the human body reacts negatively, in both a spiritual and chemical sense, to being surrounded by manufactured materials, most notably in furniture and wall coverings. The process of creating manufactured materials includes chemical additives which preserve and protect the surface from the wear of light. But those additives produce unseen emissions that get into the air, and eventually the lungs and heart of people who live among such materials. Biophilic Interior Design At Natureworks Design, we concentrate on the energy that comes from our interior designs. Feng shui focuses on the layout of an interior room or space, and we enthusiastically support minimalist design in order to provide open areas in which to live and breathe. At the same time, the energy of a room is influenced by the materials of the furniture and plants that coexist in the space. Such biophilic interior design revolves around the use of natural woods and fibers in the materials. It is revealing to witness a client viewing a redesigned interior room for the first time when biophilic design is included. The client receives a sense of warmth and connectivity, even if the feeling is entirely subconscious. It is a thrill to see the countenance of a client change within the first few moments of entering a properly designed interior. The Details of Biophilic Interior Design There are numerous details to biophilic interior design, including a few that go beyond the materials used in setting a room. You want to be able to incorporate natural light and fresh air into the design of an interior space. Natural light is a known disinfectant, and it positively affects both the mental and physical state of humans. Fresh air is going to feel more relatable than contained air, no matter how well you filter the air that comes from an HVAC system. Fresh air is known to be a positive force on the body’s immune system. Cardiac specialists can also detail all of the benefits of fresh air on the heart, lungs and blood in the body. Any furniture in your interior space should be made of natural materials when possible. Not only do natural materials emit a vibration that the human body absorbs subconsciously, they also absorb sound better than manufactured materials. Part of an idyllic interior is the calm it projects, and furniture made of natural materials simply feel less abrasive. There is a sense, as well, that being in a space with furniture made from natural materials keeps one at peace with the world. Natural wood and stone are more environmentally friendly than man-made materials. You may not think of these details as you live in your interior rooms, but the positive sense that comes from the combination of materials cannot be denied. Nature can also be transplanted into an interior space in the form of plant life. You may not want to live in a jungle setting, but including plants that work in the space of your home and that enhance the environment by being easily seen and recognized creates a greater sense of living within the world. You need not be a naturalist to understand the value of biophilic living conditions. The sounds of nature, the light from the sky, and the vibrations emitted from wood, stone, and natural fabrics all contribute to a sense of peace within a space. Please visit NatureWorks Design or Dawn Furk Services to get a sense of what we can offer in the creation of your beautiful, peaceful home.
Learn moreRecently Published Article by Redfin-Why Eco Friendly Flooring and Design Elements
Why choosing eco-friendly floors mattersEnvironmentally friendly flooring is only one way to make your house more sustainable andconsider your home's impact on the environment. Natureworks Design LLC comments on wide-ranging reasons why you should go green, saying,“Green is always a better choice when it comes to making a selection for your new or existinghome. Why? NO VOC's - your health matters first and foremost and shouldn’t be taken lightly.We’re spending more time in our homes now, more than ever. Green-friendly products have justas good wearability as traditional and have less impact on mother earth with less carbonfootprint and less landfill. Some great newer options to consider are hardwood and tile, as theyoffer resale value.” They continue, “Eucalyptus happens to be a fabulous look over bamboo, so step out of the box.Many of the same products are typically used. Don't get caught up in the yearly trends, as you’lldate your home quickly. Stay classic in your permanent features and accent with pops of colorwith fabrics, pillows, and upholstery. So many options are becoming available continually.Support USA-made products when possible and your small business owners. We do make thedifference.”Whether you're aiming to reduce your carbon footprint or make a long-lasting upgrade to your home, choosing an environmentally friendly flooring option can help.Originally published by Redfin
Learn moreCourtesy of EWG...a must read article
Explore Home Guides The Healthy Living: Home Guide includes more than 20 different types of products for building, making improvements and furnishing your home. You’ll find quick, inexpensive changes you can make, as well as bigger changes and investments you can take on when building, remodeling or redecorating. https://www.ewg.org/healthyhomeguide/?utm_campaign=Social+Traffic&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_content=1509373037
Learn moreEducation on Formaldyhde and the health hazards it can cause.
Please read and be aware before you buy! http://www.cbsnews.com/news/lumber-liquidators-linked-to-health-and-safety-violations/ Low VOC Flooring ASTM Laboratory Test Results Show Cali Bamboo Flooring100% Formaldehyde Free A recent extensive testing performed by the world’s preeminent emissions detection laboratory Benchmark International, shows several floors registering standardized concentration levels as “Not Detectable” with less than 0.000 PPM (parts per million). The floors with detectable levels were still 50 times lower than the strictest California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase 2 standards 0.05 PPM. In fact, Cali Bamboo floors scored even lower than the typical air we breathe 0.02 PPM. Due to Cali Bamboo’s proprietary quality control process, which includes the use of superior materials, adhesives and manufacturing techniques, we are able to manufacture a product that is beautiful, durable, eco-friendly and safe for even the most sensitive homeowners. What is formaldehyde? Formaldehyde can be a naturally occurring chemical in lower concentrations but is often used for embalming, or as a bonding agent or solvent. Formaldehyde is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC). VOC's are chemicals that become a gas at room temperature. As a result, products made with formaldehyde will release the gas into the air. This is called off-gassing. If high concentrations of formaldehyde are off-gassed and breathed in, it could cause health problems. What contains formaldehyde? Formaldehyde is in just about everything. Apples, shampoo and the air we breathe contains trace formaldehyde. Higher levels of formaldehyde can be found in certain building materials such as particle board, plywood, paneling, pressed-wood and laminated wood building materials including furniture and flooring. Awareness is the best defense. Do your research and get the formaldehyde emissions test results before you put any laminated wood building products in your home. Only use "interior-grade" pressed wood products (lower-emitting because they contain phenol resins, not urea resins). Use air conditioning and dehumidifiers to maintain moderate temperature and increase ventilation, particularly after bringing new sources of formaldehyde into the home. Natureworks Design offer several safe options for flooring.
Learn moreLiving a Healthier Lifestyle
The EPA has stated that homes today are 90% more polluted than the worst polluted city in America! Can you imagine Los Angeles and then your home 90% worse? This is where we identify the hidden toxins in your home. Company … or community? How To Be Green is both. It’s a company created to build and support a growing community—the community of people who want to live natural, toxin-free lives. Per Debbie Savage www.howtobegreen.org Please note this is about living a healthier lifestyle and we will continue to share our passion, education and advocacy.
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