SANDRA GARRATTA Modern American Designer

“Modern Clothes for Modern People” sums up my personal design point-of-view."

SG Design LLC
SGDBOX-ECO FABRICS & MATERIALS

SGDBOX

ECO FABRICS & MATERIALS



FABRIC GLOSSARY

The quality and eco-friendly nature of our products begins with the materials with which they are fabricated. Background information about the origin and characteristics of our fabrics, including the knits, wovens, and non-wovens, is provided in Sections 1A through 1C. Maintaining the quality of the fabric throughout the lifetime of the piece is a responsibility shared by our company and the customer. Accordingly, essential information about fabric care is also provided in this section. Section 2 addresses our dyes, inks, buttons, and trims. Section 3 discusses the term “organic”, and the efforts underway globally to improve both the eco-friendliness of the entire garment production process and the social responsibility of the industry. Section 4 provides links to additional references pertaining to the industry and trade of organics and green fashion. Finally, a glossary of terms used throughout this website is presented in Section 5.

Section 1: Knit Fabrics & Care Guide:

100% Pima Cotton

Characteristics
Gossypium barbadense, also known as Extra Long Staple, South American, Creole, Sea Island Cotton, Egyptian, Algodon pais, and West Indishe katoen, is a species of cotton plant cultivated though it originated in Peru. It is a tropical perennial plant that produces yellow flowers and has black seeds. It grows as a small bushy tree and yields cotton with unusually long silky fibers. In order to grow it requires full sun and high humidity and rainfall. It is very sensitive to frost. It is grown primarily in California, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. This cotton has antifungal properties and contains the chemical gossypol, making it less susceptible to insect damage. It is also sometimes used as an anti-fertility drug. It can be used to treat hyper-tension and delayed/irregular menstruation. It is traditionally considered to be the finest premium cotton grown yet represents a mere 5% of the yearly US cotton crop.

Care
Machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Line dry in shade or tumble dry low.


100% Organic Cotton

Characteristics
Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations (see Section 3) and then is used just like traditional commercially grown cotton. Organic Cotton differs greatly from conventional grown cotton because it is grown in pesticide free fields. Conventional cotton is the world’s most heavily sprayed crop in the world next to coffee. A quarter of a half-a-pounds of pesticides are sprayed on an average T-shirt. These pesticides contain chloride compounds, which become a Dixon when airborne (a known carcinogen). These toxins affect everyone from the field workers to the consumer using the finished product. Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations to be certified Organic quality.

Care
Machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Do not wring. Line dry in shade or tumble dry low.


100% Organic Cotton Sweatshirt Fleece

Characteristics 
Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations (see Section 3) and then is used just like traditional commercially grown cotton. Organic Cotton differs greatly from conventional grown cotton because it is grown in pesticide-free fields. Conventional cotton is the world’s most heavily sprayed crop in the world next to coffee. A quarter of a half-a-pounds of pesticides are sprayed on an average T-shirt. These pesticides contain chloride compounds, which become a Dixon when airborne (a known carcinogen). These toxins affect everyone from the field workers to the consumer using the finished product. Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations to be certified Organic quality.

Care
Machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Do not wring. Fluff/Tumble dry low.


93% Organic Cotton/ 7% Spandex French Terry

Characteristics
A high performance blend of Organic Cotton and Spandex. Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations (see Section 3) and then is used just like traditional commercially grown cotton. Organic Cotton differs greatly from conventional grown cotton because it is grown in pesticide free fields. Conventional cotton is the world’s most heavily sprayed crop in the world next to coffee. A quarter of a half-a-pounds of pesticides are sprayed on an average T-shirt. These pesticides contain chloride compounds, which become a Dixon when airborne (a known carcinogen). These toxins affect everyone from the field workers to the consumer using the finished product. Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations to be certified Organic quality.

Care
Hand wash or machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Do not us a dryer but line dry in shade to extend the life of the Spandex.


Bamboo

Characteristics
Made from fast growing bamboo shoots that help reduce carbon dioxide gases. Bamboo is a sustainable resource desirable for apparel because of its unique softness and strength. It faces criticism for less then eco-friendly manufacturing processes.

Bamboo is a biodegradable natural fiber that also offers several benefits including anti-bacterial and bacteria-static agents. It helps your skin breathe and wicks away excess moisture from the skin. Bamboo is perfect for wearing in warm or humid climates.

Care
Machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Do not wring. Tumble dry low or line dry in the shade.


70% Bamboo/ 30% Organic Cotton Jersey

Characteristics
The best of both fibers, a fantastic blend of Bamboo and Organic Cotton.
Made from fast growing bamboo shoots that help reduce carbon dioxide gases. Bamboo is a sustainable resource desirable for apparel because of its unique softness and strength. It faces criticism for less then eco-friendly manufacturing processes.

Bamboo is a biodegradable natural fiber that also offers several benefits including anti-bacterial and bacteria-static agents. It helps your skin breathe and wicks away excess moisture from the skin. Bamboo is perfect for wearing in warm or humid climates.

Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations (see Section 3) and then is used just like traditional commercially grown cotton. Organic Cotton differs greatly from conventional grown Cotton because it is grown in pesticide free fields. Conventional cotton is the worlds most heavily sprayed crop in the world next to coffee. A quarter of a half-a-pounds of pesticides are sprayed on an average T-shirt. These pesticides contain chloride compounds, which become a Dixon when airborne (a known carcinogen). These toxins affect everyone from the field workers to the consumer using the finished product. Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations to be certified Organic quality.

Care
Machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Do not wring. Line dry in shade or tumble dry low.


70% Bamboo/ 28% Organic Cotton/ 2% Polyester Velour

Characteristics
A fantastic blend of Bamboo and Organic Cotton with a bit of Polyester for strength.
Made from fast growing bamboo shoots that help reduce carbon dioxide gases. Bamboo is a sustainable resource desirable for apparel because of its unique softness and strength. It faces criticism for less then eco-friendly manufacturing processes.

Bamboo is a biodegradable natural fiber that also offers several benefits including anti-bacterial and bacteria-static agents. It helps your skin breathe and wicks away excess moisture from the skin. Bamboo is perfect for wearing in warm or humid climates.

Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations (see Section 3) and then is used just like traditional commercially grown cotton. Organic Cotton differs greatly from conventional grown cotton because it is grown in pesticide free fields. Conventional cotton is the worlds most heavily sprayed crop in the world next to coffee. A quarter of a half-a-pounds of pesticides are sprayed on an average T-shirt. These pesticides contain chloride compounds, which become a Dixon when airborne (a known carcinogen). These toxins affect everyone from the field workers to the consumer using the finished product. Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations to be certified Organic quality

Care
Machine wash in cold water with gentle detergent. Gentle tumble/ fluff dry cycle. Do not wring.


100% Modal

Characteristics
Made from the cellulose of Beech trees, Modal is sustainable and one of the softest fibers in the world, often used in bedding and lingerie.

Care
Machine wash on delicate knit cycle or hand wash in cold or warm water with mild soap. Dry flat or line dry in shade.


100% Cashmere Jersey

Characteristics
Cashmere wool, usually simply called cashmere, and sometimes Pashmina, is a fiber obtained form the Cashmere goat. The word “cashmere” derives from the archaic spelling of the region known as Kashmir. Cashmere wool is very fine in texture, and it is also strong, light, and soft. When it is made into garments they are extremely warm to wear and much warmer then the equivalent weight in sheep wool.

Care
Dry clean or hand wash with mild soap/baby shampoo and flat dry in the shade. Use cedar to protect from moths.

SECTION 2: WOVEN FABRICS & CARE GUIDE:

100% Organic Cotton

Characteristics
Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations (see Section 3) and then is used just like traditional commercially grown cotton. Organic Cotton differs greatly from conventional grown Cotton because it is grown in pesticide free fields. Conventional cotton is the worlds most heavily sprayed crop in the world next to coffee. A quarter of a half-a-pounds of pesticides are sprayed on an average T-shirt. These pesticides contain chloride compounds, which become a Dixon when airborne (a known carcinogen). These toxins affect everyone from the field workers to the consumer using the finished product. Organic Cotton must be grown and processed in accordance to strict organic regulations to be certified Organic quality.

Care
Dry clean or hand wash or machine wash on gentle in cold water with mild detergent. Do not wring. Line dry in shade. Iron if desired.


100% Bamboo

Characteristics
Made from fast growing bamboo shoots that help reduce carbon dioxide gases. Bamboo is a sustainable resource desirable for apparel because of its unique softness and strength. It faces criticism for less then eco-friendly manufacturing processes.

Bamboo is a biodegradable natural fiber that also offers several benefits including anti-bacterial and bacteria-static agents. It helps your skin breathe and wicks away excess moisture from the skin. Bamboo is perfect for wearing in warm or humid climates

Care
Dry clean or hand wash or machine wash on gentle in cold water with mild detergent. Do not wring. Line dry. Iron if desired.


100% Hemp

Characteristics
Hemp is the oldest, most resourceful crop, growing 25% faster then cotton, using less water, and also has strong roots that anchor and hold the soil preventing runoff, building and preserving the subsoil structure. As a fabric it provides durability and warmth, also will not wear out, and when blended, results in a surprisingly strong, soft fabric. At one time hemp was the #1 cash crop grown in the US. The very first USA flag was made from hemp.

Care
Hand wash or machine wash on gentle cycle in cold water with mild detergent. Do not wring. Line dry. Iron if desired.

100% Linen

Characteristics
Linen Fiber made from Flax plants. Natural and biodegradable. It is significantly more resistant to pests then cotton. It is three times stronger then cotton. Linen ages well becoming softer and developing more luster the more you wash it.

Care
Dry clean or hand wash or machine wash on gentle in cold water with mild detergent. Do not wring. Line dry. Iron if desired.


100% Silk Crepe de Chine

Characteristics
The “Queen of Fiber,” Silk is a treasure to the haute couture set for the majestic feel and drape. Versatile and comfortable, cool to wear in the Summer yet warm to wear in the Winter. Silk is smooth, strong and retains its shape.

CULTIVATED SILK: Cultivated silk comes from the cocoon of the silk worm species Bombyx Mori requiring extensive care and handling throughout the process known as “Sericulture”: The worm forms a cocoon by secreting a protein like substance through it’s head. The cocoons are then delivered to the filature (factory) where the white to grayish colored cocoons are sorted for size, shape and texture, and then put through a series of hot and cold immersions to help soften the sericin, (silk gum), before starting the process to unwind the silk filament as one long continuous thread. The reeling process then combines 3-10 fine silk strands together to make a single thread of unrefined silk. The silk filament is then collected into yarn skeins and is ready for shipping to be processed and dyed.

RAW or ORGANIC SILK: Raw or organic silk is not treated with any chemicals and made from the cocoons in which the moth has naturally emerged.

Care
Dry clean or hand wash in cold water and mild detergent. Do not wring. Line dry. Press lightly with a cool iron on the wrong side of the fabric using a pressing cloth.


100% Nylon Supplex

Characteristics
The ultimate in outdoor sportswear fabrics. Supplex has a soft, supple, cottony hand, great wickability, UV protection while being lightweight, and comfortable in any climate.

Care
Easy care. Wash in cold water with a mild detergent. Tumble dry or line dry. No need to iron.


100% Silk Chiffon

Silk Chiffon is an elegant sheer fabric with a simple plain weave and a soft, beautiful drape with a faint shimmer. When held up to the light, chiffon strongly resembles closely woven mesh. Chiffon is generally used in evening and formal wear, since it drapes well and can add a floaty look to gowns and dresses. It is also notoriously difficult to work with, because of the slippery texture of the fabric. The name comes from an Old French word for "rag". Silk chiffon is prized for it's rich luster and slick texture. Silk chiffon is also surprisingly strong despite it's delicate light weight and ethereal appearance. Dugwear's silk chiffon is produced in China.


SECTION 3: NON-WOVEN FABRICS & CARE GUIDE:


Ultrasuede Light

The originators of the worlds first ultra-microfiber introduced in the 1970s and popularized by the designer HALSTON, have engineered a new Ultrasuede fabric that is elegant, lightweight and drapable combined with comfortable breath ability. ULTRASUEDE Light is an ideal modern, washable, easy-care fabric for every season. ULTRASUEDE LIGHT has the look of fine Lambsuede while actually being animal friendly.

100% Polyester ultra-microfiber non-woven with non-fibrous polyurethane binder

Characteristics
Plush suede surface similar to fine Lambsuede
Soft hand with a very sensuous feel
Resistant to crocking, pilling, stretching and shrinking
Advanced dyeing techniques are resistant to discoloration at perspiration points 
Excellent colorfastness
UV Protective

Care
Machine wash in cold water, on delicate cycle. 
Use a mild, eco-friendly detergent. DO NOT USE BLEACH!
Tumble dry, low/ no heat or line dry in the shade
Can be lightly steam ironed on the lowest setting, MUST USE a pressing cloth
Dry cleanable by conventional methods EXCEPT White


SECTION 4: DYES, INKS, BUTTONS & TRIMS:

Low Impact Dyes
Fiber reactive dyes used for garment and fabric dying are made from water soluble natural components, with no metal contents which makes it possible to recycle used in the dye process. Dyes that have been certified low impact are stated by GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard).

Vegetable Dyes
Vegetable dyes are derived from natural plant sources. They are very eco-friendly, and safer to use then toxic chemical dyes.

Water-Based Inks
These inks are water based. The chemicals used are non-toxic and do not pollute the water system, and do not release airborne toxins.

Buttons and Trims

Tagua Nut Buttons

Tagua Nuts are indigenous to the Amazon Rainforest. These eco- friendly, naturally dyed nuts are also called vegetable ivory. They are water resistant and retain their vibrant color, even when in contact with human skin and perspiration. They have the look of, and similar quality of animal ivory.

Coconut Buttons

Made from natural coconut shells recycled from the food industry waste. Can be shaped and carved easily.

Natural Sea Shell Mother of Pearl

Various natural shell and mother-of-pearl used for buttons. Beautiful colors and natural luster with natural variations and imperfections.


SECTION 5: ORGANIC CERTIFICATION & USA & GLOBAL STANDARDS:

Low Impact Dyes
Fiber reactive dyes used for garment and fabric dying are made from water soluble natural components, with no metal contents which makes it possible to recycle used in the dye process. Dyes that have been certified low impact are stated by GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard).

Vegetable Dyes
Vegetable dyes are derived from natural plant sources. They are very eco-friendly, and safer to use then toxic chemical dyes.

Water-Based Inks
These inks are water based. The chemicals used are non-toxic and do not pollute the water system, and do not release airborne toxins.

Buttons and Trims

Tagua Nut Buttons

Tagua Nuts are indigenous to the Amazon Rainforest. These eco- friendly, naturally dyed nuts are also called vegetable ivory. They are water resistant and retain their vibrant color, even when in contact with human skin and perspiration. They have the look of, and similar quality of animal ivory.

Coconut Buttons

Made from natural coconut shells recycled from the food industry waste. Can be shaped and carved easily.

Natural Sea Shell Mother of Pearl

Various natural shell and mother-of-pearl used for buttons. Beautiful colors and natural luster with natural variations and imperfections.


SECTION 6: HELPFUL GREEN LINKS:

Global Organic Textile Standard: Standard for organic fabrics and dyes.
www.global-standard.org

Organic Trade Association: Information on organic farming and products
www.ota.com

Organic Exchange: A group of businesses using organic products.
www.organicexchange.org

Hemp Industries Association: Offers loads of information about hemp.
www.thehia.org

Treehugger: The number one news source on green lifestyles.
www.treehugger.com

Ecostiletto.com: Green high fashionistas site. Green no longer means no fashion style.
www.EcoStilletto.com

Humane Society: Lists designers/retailers that are fur free.
www.hsus.org


SECTION 7: GLOSSARY OF GREEN TERMS:

Carbon Footprint
Carbon Footprint refers to the measurement of the impact of human activities on the environment in terms of greenhouse gases produced. Measured by carbon dioxide it shows the impact of how each activity contributes to global warming.

Eco-Friendly
An adjective used to describe something that is perceived to be beneficial to the environment.

Green
An adjective used to describe something that is perceived to be beneficial to the environment.

Organic
In the United States, organic food is produced according to legally regulated standards. For crops, organic means that they are grown without the uses of conventional pesticides, artificial fertilizers, animal byproducts or sewage sludge, and they are processed without ionizing radiation, food additives, antibiotics or growth hormones. At all levels, organic processes are obtained without the use of genetically modified organisms.

Recycled
Using materials that have previously been used and regenerated. Repurposing is using an existing item and making it into something new. This conserves material and reduces waste.

Sustainable
Of or relating to or being a method of harvesting or using a resource so that the resource is not depleted or permanently damaged.

Made in the USA 
Garments are cut, sewn and finished in the USA. Beneficial to boost the American economy and help create American jobs. Keeping production local helps to decrease the amount of time and energy used for the transportation.

Made in Sunny Southern California 
Garments are cut, sewn and finished in Southern California. Helps to boost the Southern Californian and American economy and helps create regional jobs. Keeping production local helps to decrease the amount of time and energy used for the transportation.

Made in Downtown LA
Garments are conceived, designed, cut, sewn and finished in the largest existing American garment center in downtown Los Angeles, California. Beneficial to boosting the fashion image and the economy of city of Los Angeles while also creating regional jobs in an enterprise development zone. Keeping production local helps to decrease the amount of time and energy used for the transportation.

Fair Trade
Advocates the payment of a fair price as well as social and environmental standards of exported goods primarily from developing countries. This practice can also be applied to US based businesses.


SGDBOX POV: Go Green-Tek
SGDBOX Design Approach: Integrating The Best That NATURE Has To Offer With the Newest High-Tech & Enhanced-Performance Materials & Techniques