GLOSSARY
TECHNIQUES
TECHNIQUES
HANDBLOWN
Hand-blown glass, also known as mouth-blown glass, begins with artisans using their breath to shape molten glass heated beyond 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The glassmaker gathers a glowing mass of molten glass onto a blowpipe and blows air into it while simultaneously rotating the pipe to create an initial shape.
Throughout the process, the artisan skillfully rotates and reheats the glass to refine its form, frequently collaborating with an assistant to perfect the shape. In many cases, the partially shaped glass is further refined by placing it into molds made of steel or wood, guiding it toward the desired final structure.
TECHNIQUES
HAND-DYED
Hand dyeing is an artisanal practice that produces beautiful, natural variations in color and tone, creating a look impossible to replicate in mass-produced, factory-dyed textiles. This technique is typically performed by independent makers or small craft-based businesses, rather than large industrial dye operations.
The hand dyeing process includes numerous methods, such as immersion dyeing, kettle dyeing, dip dyeing, and hand painting. It also embraces traditional techniques that machinery cannot duplicate, including ancient dyeing arts like Shibori, Batik, Ikat, and mud cloth dyeing, each delivering uniquely intricate and vibrant patterns.
TECHNIQUES
HAND LOOM
A hand loom is a weaving device operated manually without electricity. Artisans use pedals or treadles, powered by their feet, to maneuver the loom and produce textiles rich in texture and character. By skillfully blending yarns of varying thickness and quality, weavers achieve distinct and appealing textures. Unlike factory production, hand-loomed textiles are typically created by skilled artisans in their own villages, resulting in a decentralized, small-scale manufacturing approach.
Organic cotton production standards are maintained by several independent certifying organizations. Among the most recognized is the USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP), which verifies farms’ adherence to organic cultivation practices. Another widely respected certification is the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which oversees sustainable and ethical textile manufacturing.
TECHNIQUES
HAND POURED
In candle-making, “hand-poured” signifies a thoughtful, multi-step process beyond simply pouring wax. Initially, the artisan positions a cotton wick in each container, securing it precisely with metal supports known as bow ties. Wax is then gently heated to about 180°F, blended carefully with fragrance, and slowly poured into each prepared container. After allowing sufficient time for the wax to set firmly, the candle maker meticulously trims the wick, ensuring optimal burning performance and quality.
TECHNIQUES
HAND-THROWN
Hand-thrown pottery refers to ceramic pieces shaped entirely by hand rather than using molds. Typically crafted on a potter’s wheel, hand-thrown pottery can also be constructed by “slab building,” a technique involving shaping clay with hands, fingers, and basic tools. Because of this hands-on process, subtle variations naturally occur, ensuring each finished piece is one-of-a-kind and full of character.
TECHNIQUES
HANDWOVEN
Hand weaving is among the most ancient crafts still practiced today. Unlike modern, mechanized methods, hand weaving relies entirely on traditional looms, operated manually by skilled artisans. The process involves repeatedly interlacing two distinct sets of yarn—warp threads running lengthwise and weft threads running horizontally. This meticulous, manual technique creates fabrics known for their exceptional texture, distinctive feel, and unparalleled craftsmanship.