Posted: July 11, 2008 Post Expires: January 10, 2009
Paloma Textiles
In 1988 I set up a small handweaving studio and began producing hand-dyed cotton blankets. Over the years I became interested in working with yarns produced in an environmentally sustainable manner. In addition, I wanted to know the story behind the materials I was using. Where were they made? What were the working conditions of the people who made them? And in the case of animal fibers, were the animals treated humanely?
Finding the answers to these questions is often challenging. Many companies don't divulge information about potentially harmful aspects of their production techniques. Asking questions about animal welfare often raises the defenses of people selling animal products. And unless a product from abroad is certified as Fair Trade, it is difficult to find out about the treatment of the workers who make that product.
I started Palomatextiles.com to be a site where fiber artists can find out the story behind the products we sell. I have selected plant-based products that have been grown and processed sustainably, and I've searched out products made with fair labor standards. However, not all of my products are Fair Trade certified, and I provide that information on the product's page. Finally, I have made humane treatment of animals a prime concern.
Each time we buy something, we're voting with our money. Our shopping practices have the power to change our world almost as much as our political activities. Shopping is political. My goal is to make shopping easier for those who want to change the world one small step at a time.
Contact Information:
Ruth Henriquez Lyon
Paloma Textiles
2170 Woodhaven Lane
Duluth, MN 55803
USA
218-728-1365
