Our Fabric
Hemp
For 20 years, we've cherished our hemp and organic cotton blend fabric, known for its durability and classic linen-like feel. The slightly heavier weight prevents it from slipping on tables, making it perfect for everyday use. This fabric is easy to clean and forgiving of stains, standing the test of time.
Hemp has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with cultivation of hemp fibre dating back as far as 2800 BC to Central Asia, however, there are sources of earlier use dating back as far as 8000BC. Hemp offers benefits that we continue to appreciate today. It is a sustainable and renewable resource used in various industries, including textiles and clothing.
Ali Davies has extensive experience with hemp fabric and appreciates it for its exceptional durability and resistance to various elements like UV light, mould, and insects. It requires no herbicides or pesticides for production and maintains its colour and strength over time. Its absorbency and stain resistance make it ideal for tablecloths, lasting for years and decomposing harmlessly when disposed of.
The numerous benefits of hemp, such as its minimal water requirements, strength, and UV protection, make it a standout choice for sustainable textiles.
Key Points:
- Durable hemp fabric with a classic feel
- Sustainable and renewable resource with a rich history
- Resistant to UV light, mould, and insects
- Requires minimal water and maintenance
- Ideal for long-lasting tablecloths and clothing.
Organic Cotton
Nearly every individual on the planet uses cotton textiles in some form. The impact of textiles on the planet is undeniable, with cotton production being particularly significant. Natural fabrics are important to a textile artist such as Ali Davies, especially cotton, however, not all cotton is created equal.
Here are the fundamental differences between conventional cotton and general organic cotton.
- Using organic cotton means farmers have control over the seeds.
- In normal cotton production, the seeds are 95% controlled by GM Corporations.
- Organic cotton can be grown alongside food which benefits the farmers and community.
- Normal cotton production is grown as a mono-crop which over time depletes the soil.
- Hazardous pesticides are banned in organic cotton production.
- Conventional cotton production is responsible for a large proportion of the world’s use of insecticides and pesticides.
So what is GOTS certification and how is that different to standard organic cotton labelling?
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is the most trusted and reliable global monitoring system for organic cotton. Just saying a product is ‘organic cotton’ is not enough. Here’s why – it could be blended with a large portion of non-organic cotton.
- it could be manufactured under poor labour conditions.
So as part of our ‘no harm’ ethos Ali Davies started with many years ago, GOTS certification is essential for the cotton products we manufacture.
A GOTS- certified label means:
- It has to be 95% organic
- Genetically modified seeds are prohibited
- Wastewater treatment and chemicals are strictly monitored
- Child labour is prohibited and workers must be treated well
- Quality control – this assures that a GOTS product will last longer and is of the best quality
The Patterns of New Zealand tea towels have been custom-made on 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton. They are made of the highest quality, with wide hems, mitred corners and absorbent weave.
Fabric Care
If you have a top loader washing machine, we would recommend a gentle cycle. Front loading washing machines are generally more gentle, so a 'linen' or 'bedding' cycle is good.
After washing your fabric, it is best if you can hang it shortly after the wash cycle has finished. Give it a shake to get out as many creases as you can and hang it evenly on the clothes line. A quick hot iron on the reverse side, and it's ready to use again or store for next time. In most cases, ironing is not necessary but recommended for the best look on the table. For best results, iron the tablecloth while it is still a little damp.
Care Instructions
Dry Cleaning Ok - Wet wash temperature: 40deg - Do not bleach; It is not recommended to tumble dry (but we have!) expect some shrinkage if you tumble dry.
We do not recommend bleaching table linens. One or two customers have told us they used a fabric detergent with a combined 'whitener' with success, but if you do use such a product, you do so at your own risk. You can wash out stains really well just by a soak or you can use our wonderful gentle stain remover soap. This will last for years and you just rub it on the stain and wash as normal. Wet the fabric or soap first.
We love our fabric and guarantee our product so please contact us for any reason if you are not satisfied. Please contact us if you are satisfied as well!