The first “consultation” assignment: Our Own House Consultancy

Over 2 next weeks, teams will investigate the current state of practice in the Star Store Textiles studios. What materials, processes, and techniques are used? Are these elements safe for the users? Does their sourcing or use/disposal contribute to climate change? What are the pros and cons? Are there more sustainable alternatives?

Teams: Dye kitchen: dyes, inks, indigo, water use, thiox, soda ash, laundry detergent

   Print studio: cloth sourcing/prep, emulsion (applying and removing), tape, devoré

Weaving and felting: yarn sources (non-donation), use and waste, roving (white and

dyed) sources, Murphy’s soap

  CAD lab: paper, ink, laser/color printing, digital printing (Spoonflower)

Sewing, embroidery, batik: fabric waste, threads, embroidery and

embellishment materials, wax types and removal

Begin by identifying all the points of concern in your area. Research the components of materials (use MSDS as needed) and document the steps in our processes as taught.  What are your concerns and what can be improved? Different sourcing, alternative materials, changes to practices as taught?

Prepare your findings as an overview of your area and the detailed list of the concerns; provide a grade (A-F) for each point. Following each concern, state your suggested changes or improvements. Please include your background research.