If you’ve ever stood in front of your fabric stash or browsed an online fabric shop wondering what’s the most sustainable choice here? you’re not alone. Choosing fabric is one of the most exciting parts of sewing, but it’s also where we can start making more conscious, earth-loving decisions.
And while the world of sustainable fabrics isn’t always black and white (hello, greenwashing and mixed messaging), sewing gives us the unique opportunity to slow things down and sew with more intention.
So, let’s chat about some of the more sustainable fabric options out there, and why they might be worth adding to your stash.
🌱 8 more sustainable fabric options for sewing
Whether you're building your slow fashion sewing wardrobe or just dipping your toes into eco-friendly sewing, here are some fabric choices to consider:
✨ Linen
Made from the flax plant, linen fabric is breathable, biodegradable, and gets softer with every wear. It’s a dream for summer sewing and has that relaxed, timeless charm.
✨ Tencel (Lyocell)
Tencel is made from sustainably sourced wood pulp using a closed-loop process. It’s beautifully drapey, silky-soft, and a great option for sustainable dressmaking projects.
✨ Organic Cotton
Just like regular cotton, but grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilisers. Organic cotton fabric is gentle on the environment and perfect for everyday sewing.
✨ Deadstock Fabric
Using deadstock fabrics means you’re rescuing leftover rolls from the fashion industry. It's a brilliant way to reduce textile waste and make one-of-a-kind garments.
✨ Ramie
A lesser-known natural fibre, ramie fabric comes from the nettle plant and has a texture similar to linen. It’s strong, naturally grown, and often overlooked in the world of sustainable fabrics.
✨ EcoVero Viscose
A more sustainable alternative to traditional viscose, EcoVero fabric is made using renewable wood sources and has a lower environmental impact. It’s floaty, soft, and a dream to wear.
✨ Hemp
Hemp fabric is one of the most eco-conscious options out there. It grows quickly, uses very little water, and needs no pesticides. Plus, it softens beautifully with wear.
✨ Recycled Fabrics
From recycled cotton to denim, recycled fabric options give a second life to fibres that would otherwise be discarded. Great for reducing textile waste and still totally sew-worthy.
🧵 Sustainable sewing starts with your stash
One of the easiest and most impactful ways to sew sustainably? Use what you already have! Sewing from your stash is a joyful act of resourcefulness and creativity. It keeps fabric out of landfill and helps you fall back in love with what’s already in your studio.
🌍 Progress, not perfection
Sustainable sewing isn’t about being perfect; it’s about thoughtful choices. Maybe that means buying less but buying better, mending a well-loved make, or swapping fabric with a sewing friend.
So next time you’re planning a new project, take a mindful moment to ask yourself:
What fabric will make me feel good, and do good too?
Tell me below: what’s your favourite eco-friendly fabric to sew with? Have you tried any of the ones on this list? Let’s share our experiences, tips, and sustainable sewing wins! 💬
Happy Earth Month,
Emma x