Sourcing Sustainable Fabric Beyond Upcycling

In today’s fashion industry, sustainability is more than just a trend—it’s a necessity. As designers and creators, the fabrics we choose have a significant impact on the environment. There are many ways to find sustainable materials while staying true to your creative vision. Upcycling materials is one of the most well-known and widely used methods for sourcing fabric sustainably. However, ethical fabric sourcing isn’t limited to repurposing old materials. There are also several ways to obtain new fabrics responsibly—ensuring sustainability, reducing waste, and supporting ethical production practices. In this post, I’ll explore alternative ways to source high-quality, sustainable, and eco-concious textiles beyond upcycling.

Deadstock Fabric

Deadstock fabric refers to leftover textiles that brands, mills, or factories no longer use. Rather than sending them to landfills, these materials are resold to designers and small businesses. This is a great way to source high-quality fabrics in limited quantities.

Luxury & Designer Deadstock

Some high-end brands sell or donate leftover fabric from previous collections. These can include high-quality silks, jacquards, and unique prints.

Industrial Deadstock

Factories often have excess fabric rolls that they sell at a discount. These materials would otherwise go to waste, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Small Batch & Exclusive

Many deadstock fabrics are one-of-a-kind or available in limited quantities, which means your designs will remain unique.

Fabric Remnants & Offcuts

Fabric remnants are small pieces of fabric left over after cutting patterns for production. These offcuts are often too small for large-scale manufacturers to use but are perfect for smaller brands and independent designers.

Great for Accessories & Small Pieces

Remnants work well for patchwork, corsetry, and trims.

Reduces Waste

Using offcuts prevents high-quality fabrics from being discarded.

Affordable & Unique

Since remnants come from larger production runs, they are budget-friendly while still being sustainable.

Ethically Sourced & Organic Fabrics

If you prefer to work with new, sustainably produced materials, there are many options that prioritize ethical manufacturing and environmental responsibility.

Organic Cotton & Hemp

Grown without pesticides, these fabrics are biodegradable and highly durable.

Tencel (Lyocell) & Modal

Made from sustainably harvested wood pulp, these fabrics are soft, breathable, and low-impact.

Linen & Bamboo

Naturally anti-bacterial and moisture-wicking, great for high-end sustainable streetwear.

Recycled Polyester & Nylon

Made from post-consumer plastic waste (such as bottles and fishing nets), these materials are both durable and eco-conscious.

Ethically Sourced & Organic Fabrics

For designers producing larger quantities, partnering with ethical mills and fabric manufacturers ensures that your textiles are ethically sourced and sustainably produced.

Look for Certifications

• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) – Ensures the fabric is made from organic fibers with environmentally responsible production.

• OEKO-TEX Standard 100 – Guarantees the fabric is free from harmful chemicals.

• Fair Trade Certification – Ensures fair wages and safe working conditions for textile workers.

Make Thoughtful Choices

Sourcing sustainable fabric doesn’t mean limiting your creativity—it enhances it. By using upcycled materials, deadstock fabric, and ethically sourced textiles, you can create high-quality, unique designs while reducing waste and making a positive impact.