Okay, so I went shopping for clothes and I was again unsatisfied with the synthetic materials out there in the market!
Acrylic fiber
And then, I think, who exactly is making these clothes? What is acrylic fiber? I read in an article, it’s not exactly an earth-friendly material and to try to avoid it. So I decided to do a little research. I want people to be more aware of these materials and this is part of my awareness contribution to the community.
According to wikipedia (yes, I will be referring to this source), the Dupont Corporation first created this material in 1941 and trademarked, “Orlon” consisting of synthetic fibers. But to be considered acrylic in the U.S., it must contain 85% acrylonitrile. What is acrylonitrile? Good thing I asked myself.
Acrylonitrile is a component of synthetic rubber and synthetic fibers but small amounts are used in fumigants, or pest control. Also, it has been classified as a CLASS 2B carcinogen which is a “possible carcinogenic”.
I have a winter hat that’s white and it’s 100% acrylic. I wanted to donate it but now that I know this info, that’s totally out of the question. Now, I want to burn it. But that would put me and the planet in danger. This acrylic thing is actually not really suppose to be on the largest organ on our body, our skin. I don’t know what to do with this thing…maybe take a picture of it.
Now you know and you can decide because knowledge is power. Personally, I think it’s really more about how cheaper and faster it is to use synthetic materials than natural fibers. But that’s just my opinion. I will continue with my research to enlighten you more.
Blissful Seed is excited to announce the new children’s t-shirt line encompassing all original artwork on 100% organic cotton t-shirts. Never thought I would be able to launch another line but it was just as much fun and not to mention work. But with my reliable designer, Hugo, he was able to dedicate the designs to sustainability and nature. We are so pleased with the results and this makes us dream even more.
The best part for me is the photo shoot because of the creative freedom you have to envision the apparel on the models. Most of the children models were graciously volunteered by their generous parents. It was a pleasant surprise how smoothly everything went especially with our fabulous photographer, Hector (A million thanks, my friend!!) . We were able to complete the photo shoot with three children under an hour. I learned so much. I feel like I am always thriving on what I learn especially the challenges that we face as eco-business people. I dedicate this line to all those students who were in my classroom the five years I taught as a teacher. Today, I feel like they have taught me to be more conscious of my own potential as I taught them to work hard toward their own. So happy we launched the children’s line and hopeful for the new year.
Founder, Elizabeth Rangel, of Blissful Seed, working at farmer's market
I’m so glad I finally launched my organic apparel company in Chicago. It’s the best decision I’ve made and quite satisfying than working for someone else. I have enough drive and energy to keep going, and well I am so glad it keeps me motivated even through this economy.
Now, on to breathing life back into this blog that I have neglected since the launch of Blissful Seed. Where do I begin? Well, I am so proud to annouce my first client is testing my ladies’ organic cotton tees in the Nature Museum. I feel so lucky. It’s all that energy. Then all of a sudden, Mindful Metropolis decided to featured me as a one of five social entrepreneurs. (I usually don’t like to talk about myself but I am so passionate about my company; the picture above is from the featured article Mindful Metropolis!) I’m so flattered that gave me more ideas/prospects. But the real fun begins with the designs and networking. I love going to all the social networking events in Chicago. People constantly fascinate me.
So, what have we decided to do at Blissful Seed? Yes, we decided to launch our children’s fall collection of t-shirts. They arrived today! We were motivated with children’s love of nature and sense of style. Plus, it’s fun to design for them. Either way, I think I thrive on change. It’s the teacher in me. I guess I just miss the little ones. I am so eager to showcase them at the Evanston Green Living Festival this week-end. I know they will be bestsellers!! You never know what can happen next.
