GLOSSARY
TERMS
TERMS
ARTISANS
Artisans are skilled workers and those whose products embody cultural attributes. Many artisans use ancient craft techniques that are passed down through generations. They also have small scale production capabilities.
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DESIGNER/MAKER
Independent designers and makers create original concepts and unique directions for their collections, often producing their products in small, limited batches within their own studios. This approach allows them to maintain close control over quality, creativity, and craftsmanship.
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HANDMADE
“Handmade” describes products crafted by skilled artisans and independent makers, typically in small workshops or home-based studios. These craftspeople primarily rely on their hands, sometimes supplemented by hand-guided machinery and specialized tools, rather than automated equipment. Handmade goods are commonly created in limited quantities or small batches. This smaller-scale approach contrasts sharply with mass production, allowing for increased sustainability, reduced environmental impact, and minimal waste.
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ORGANIC
In textiles, yarns, and fabrics, the term “organic” describes fibers cultivated and processed following strict guidelines, specifically excluding synthetic fertilizers, harmful pesticides, or genetically modified organisms. These rigorous standards ensure that organic fibers are environmentally friendly and free from chemical contamination.
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RECYCLED
Recycling involves reclaiming materials from discarded items and transforming them into entirely new products. Specifically for glass and metals, recycling typically requires breaking down the original item—often by melting—to repurpose the material into fresh, usable products. This process conserves resources and reduces waste.
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UPCYCLED
Upcycling refers to creatively reusing a material for a purpose different from its original intent. Rather than breaking down or destroying the initial item, upcycling preserves much of the original form, structure, and materials, repurposing them into something new and useful. In fashion, upcycling revitalizes clothing, enhancing its appeal and value. By giving garments a second life, upcycling helps prevent textile waste from entering landfills, promoting sustainability.
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ZERO WASTE
Zero-waste textiles involve utilizing every part of the fabric, ensuring nothing goes unused. This practice either incorporates the full fabric piece in the creation process or repurposes leftover scraps and remnants into new, valuable items. By doing so, zero-waste textiles significantly reduce fabric waste, promoting a sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to production.