Frequently Asked Questions.

Certainly, you can reach out to our Sales department with your specific sample inquiries, including the desired fabric types and quantities. We are able to offer smaller cuts below 1 meter for sample purposes, enabling you to evaluate the texture and quality of the fabric to ensure it meets your requirements.

For our ON STOCK positions catalog, you can either request one from our Sales department or access our online catalog at maximo-tekstil.com/on-stock-production For fabrics that are not part of our on-stock production, we do not maintain ready-made samples on hand. Instead, we custom-create each sample to cater to our clients' specific requirements. The manufacturing process for these tailor-made samples typically takes approximately one to two weeks.

For more technical fabric catalogs, we may not have them in-house, but we can create samples and deliver them to you for evaluation and approval.

The minimum order for in-stock products is one roll, with roll sizes ranging from 30m to 110m. The average roll size is between 60m and 100m. If, for any reason, the placed order is less than one roll, we will adjust the basic price for cutting as follows:

Quantities less than one roll:

1. We do not cut less than 1m.

2. For 1m to 10m, we will add €0.49 per meter to the listed price.

3. For 10m up to 20m, we will add €0.39 per meter to the listed price.

4. For 20m up to 30m, we will add €0.29 per meter to the listed price.

5. For more than 40m, we will add €0.19 per meter to the listed price.

For a complete price list of in-stock products, please email us.

*For pricing information on custom products and those we can manufacture for you, please contact our sales department.

To place an order, please contact us via one of the following methods:

• Email: maximo1@siol.net

• Phone: Call our sales representative, at +386 40 855 805
  

For first-time business customers, please include the following information with your order:

Fabric Details:

• Product name

• Color

• Quantity (e.g., PACIFIK, ROYAL BOX, 268m)
  

Company Details:

• Company name

• Company address

• EU VAT number
  

You may also specify any preferred delivery dates or special conditions to help us fulfill your order efficiently.

Our team is committed to providing you with excellent service and is available to assist you throughout the ordering process.

Once all relevant details regarding your order have been reviewed and confirmed with our sales department, we will promptly prepare and issue a pro forma invoice for your approval. This document will serve as the formal basis for initiating the processing of your request.

Upon confirmation of payment, we will proceed with the shipment of the ordered fabric in accordance with the established protocols outlined in our delivery policy, which can be reviewed in full at www.maximo-tekstil.com/delivarytime.

This process ensures clarity, efficiency, and full transparency at every stage — from initial inquiry and order placement to final dispatch and delivery — reflecting our commitment to providing reliable and professional service to each of our clients.

We are located in Slovenia, and all orders are dispatched from our warehouse in Trzin. Upon receiving an order via email, our sales department will assess the fastest and most cost-effective shipping option and respond accordingly.

1. Domestic orders received by 14:00h will be shipped on the same day. If the order is placed after 14:00h, the goods will be dispatched the following business day. (We recommend placing orders early in the morning for faster shipping times.)

2. Delivery times for EU countries may vary, and you can check them on the following page:

Track your delivery time: http://www.maximo-tekstil.com/tracking

Ordered goods can be delivered to the buyer in several ways:

1. The buyer or a company appointed by them can personally pick up the goods at our warehouse.

2. The buyer can send their own logistics service to pick up the goods at our warehouse.

3. We can ship the goods through our logistics partners (GLS, DPD, etc.), and you can check the shipping prices on the following page:

Shipping pricing: http://www.maximo-tekstil.com/shippingpricing

Our responsibility for logistic issues:

In cases where goods are transported by external companies appointed by us or the buyer (DPD, GLS, Schenker, etc.), please inspect the goods upon receipt for any damage that may have occurred during transit. If any damages are found, the buyer should report them as soon as possible.

We are not responsible for delays in deliveries due to force majeure or other unforeseen or unpredictable circumstances that may occur during transportation. Consequently, the buyer is not allowed to submit a compensation claim to the seller.

Indeed, you can reserve specific products along with their corresponding quantities for a duration that has been mutually agreed upon with our sales department. This arrangement allows for a secure allocation of the desired merchandise while providing ample time for customers to plan and make necessary arrangements concerning their orders. Our sales department will work closely with you to ensure a smooth reservation process and accommodate your requirements to the best of their abilities.

DuPont originally introduced the fabric as a type of rayon.The product was further developed during World War II and used by the military in tires. In 1966, when new formulations of nylon proved superior, the Cordura brand name was transferred to the nylon product instead.

In 1977 researchers discovered a process for dyeing Cordura, which opened a wide variety of commercial applications. By 1979 soft-sided Cordura luggage had captured about 40 percent of the luggage market.

Several classic brands that remain popular today continue to use Cordura fabric in their products. Eastpak was the first brand to use Cordura fabric in their packs,while JanSport used the canvas-like nylon in their original daypacks in the 1970s and uses polyester cordura today. No Jansport bags are made with nylon today.

In the 1980s Manhattan Portage began using 1000D Cordura Nylon in their bags.In the 1990s, European workwear clothing brands adopted the 1000D and 500D fabric for reinforcements. Clothing brands such as F. Engel, Fristads Kansas, Snickers and Scruffs use the fabric.

Cordura is also used today in most mid- to high-quality textile motorcycle jackets and pants for its high abrasion resistance. It is found in motorcycle gear made by companies such as Klim, Rukka, MotoPort, Rev'It, Olympia, AeroStich, and Dainese.

Both 500D and 1000D refer to denier ratings for nylon fabrics. Denier is a unit of measurement used to describe the linear mass density of fibers, specifically the mass in grams per 9,000 meters of the fiber. In the context of nylon fabrics, the denier rating conveys the thickness of the yarn used in the fabric's weave, which in turn affects the fabric's overall durability, weight, and texture.

500D and 1000D nylon fabrics are both made from the same underlying material, which is nylon, a synthetic polymer known for its strength, abrasion resistance, and durability. However, the primary difference between the two lies in the thickness of the yarn used in their respective weaves:

1. 500D Nylon: In a 500D nylon fabric, the yarn used has a denier rating of 500. This means that the yarn is relatively thinner compared to 1000D nylon. As a result, 500D nylon fabric is lighter in weight and generally more flexible than its 1000D counterpart. It is still highly durable and suitable for a range of applications, including lightweight backpacks, luggage, and outdoor gear.

2. 1000D Nylon: In contrast, 1000D nylon fabric employs a thicker yarn with a denier rating of 1000. This creates a more robust and heavier fabric that offers greater abrasion resistance, tensile strength, and overall durability. Due to these characteristics, 1000D nylon is often utilized in heavy-duty applications such as military gear, tactical backpacks, and rugged outdoor equipment.

In summary, both 500D and 1000D nylon fabrics are composed of a nylon weave that varies in thickness due to their respective denier ratings. While 500D nylon is lighter and more flexible, 1000D nylon offers increased durability and strength, making it suitable for more demanding applications. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the intended use, taking into consideration factors such as weight, flexibility, and durability.

Cordura® fabrics come with a range of advantages that make them stand out in both professional and everyday applications:

• Outstanding Durability: Thanks to their nylon 6,6 fiber construction, Cordura® fabrics resist abrasions, tears, and scuffs far more effectively than many traditional textiles. • Extended Product Lifespan: Items made with Cordura® often remain in good condition for longer periods, reducing replacement costs over time. • Versatile Options: Cordura® is available in various weights (known as deniers), which means it can be used for heavy-duty reinforcements in workwear or lighter, more comfortable blends in casual apparel. • Easy Maintenance: Many Cordura® products are machine-washable, and the fabric resists fading and shrinking—helping maintain a fresh, consistent look. • Broad Applications: From military gear and outdoor apparel to backpacks and luggage, Cordura® adapts to a wide range of needs where reliability and toughness are key.

Plain weave, also known as tabby weave, linen weave, or taffeta weave, is the simplest and most fundamental of the three primary types of textile weaves, which also include satin weave and twill weave. It forms the basis for many fabrics used in fashion, furnishing, and various other applications due to its strength, durability, and versatility.

The plain weave is characterized by its simple construction, where each warp (vertical) yarn alternately passes over and under each weft (horizontal) yarn. This creates a balanced and symmetrical fabric with a consistent pattern of interlacing yarns, resulting in a checkerboard or grid-like appearance. The uniform structure of the plain weave contributes to its strength and hard-wearing properties, making it suitable for various applications.

Some key attributes of plain weave fabrics are:

1. Balanced construction: In a plain weave, the warp and weft yarns are evenly distributed, creating a fabric with equal strength in both directions.

2. Flat surface: The simple over-under pattern produces a fabric with a relatively smooth and even surface, making it ideal for printing or embroidery.

3. Minimal elasticity: Plain weave fabrics generally have limited stretch or elasticity due to the tight interlacing of yarns. This can be advantageous in certain applications where dimensional stability is important.

4. Versatility: Plain weave fabrics can be made from various types of fibers, including natural fibers like cotton, linen, and silk, as well as synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. This versatility allows for a wide range of applications, from lightweight and breathable summer clothing to heavy-duty canvas for upholstery and outdoor gear.

5. Cost-effective: Due to its simple construction and ease of production, plain weave fabrics are often more cost-effective than more complex weaves like twill or satin.

In summary, plain weave is a basic yet versatile textile weave that offers a strong, durable, and balanced fabric structure. Its adaptability to a wide range of fibers and applications, along with its cost-effectiveness, make it a popular choice for both fashion and furnishing fabrics.

Dobby, sometimes spelled as dobbie, is a woven fabric created on a specialized dobby loom, which is known for producing intricate small geometric patterns and added texture in the fabric. Dobby fabrics are characterized by their unique designs and distinct feel, which result from the deliberate manipulation of warp and weft threads during the weaving process.

Dobby looms are unique in that they allow for individual control of each warp yarn, enabling the creation of more complex patterns compared to traditional looms. The intricate patterns often found in dobby fabrics are a result of this precise control, as well as the use of different weave structures within the same fabric. Some common patterns include checks, stripes, and small-scale motifs.

The warp and weft threads in dobby fabrics can be of the same color or different colors, depending on the desired effect. The use of contrasting colors can emphasize the geometric patterns and texture, while using the same color for both warp and weft threads can create a more subtle effect. Satin threads are particularly effective in dobby weaves, as their smooth and lustrous texture helps to highlight the intricate patterns and add depth to the fabric.

Some key features of dobby fabrics include:

1. Intricate patterns: The dobby loom allows for the creation of complex geometric patterns, resulting in eye-catching and unique designs.

2. Enhanced texture: The deliberate manipulation of warp and weft threads during the weaving process results in a fabric with a rich and tactile texture.

3. Versatility: Dobby fabrics can be made from various types of fibers, including natural fibers like cotton, linen, and silk, as well as synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. This versatility allows dobby fabrics to be used in a wide range of applications, from clothing to home furnishings.

4. Customizability: The dobby loom enables the production of bespoke patterns and designs, allowing for greater creativity and personalization in the final fabric.

In summary, dobby is a unique and versatile woven fabric known for its intricate geometric patterns and enhanced texture. Produced on a dobby loom, this fabric can be made from a variety of fibers and features customizable designs, making it an attractive choice for both fashion and home furnishings. The use of satin threads or contrasting colors can further emphasize the patterns and texture, adding depth and visual interest to the fabric.

Ripstop fabrics are a unique category of woven textiles, known for their durability and resistance to tearing and ripping. Developed using a special reinforcing technique, ripstop fabrics are often made from nylon, but can also be constructed using other fibers such as cotton, silk, polyester, and polypropylene.

The primary characteristic of ripstop fabrics is the incorporation of thicker reinforcement yarns, which are interwoven at regular intervals in a crosshatch pattern. These intervals typically range from 5 to 8 millimeters (0.2 to 0.3 inches) apart. By integrating these reinforcement yarns into the thinner base fabric, ripstop materials gain a 2-dimensional structure that enhances their strength and tear resistance.

In earlier ripstop fabrics, the thicker interlocking thread patterns were quite noticeable, but advances in weaving techniques have allowed for the development of ripstop fabrics with less obvious reinforcing threads. This can be achieved by weaving two or three fine yarns together at smaller intervals, resulting in a more subtle appearance while still maintaining the fabric's strength and tear-resistant properties.

Some of the advantages of ripstop fabrics include:

1. Strength-to-weight ratio: Ripstop fabrics provide exceptional strength and durability while remaining lightweight, making them an ideal choice for various applications, such as outdoor gear, clothing, and parachutes.

2. Tear resistance: The crosshatched reinforcement threads in ripstop fabrics prevent small tears from easily spreading, reducing the likelihood of extensive damage and prolonging the life of the material.

3. Versatility: Ripstop fabrics can be constructed from various fibers, including cotton, silk, polyester, and polypropylene, allowing them to be tailored to specific needs and performance requirements.

4. Adaptability: Modern weaving techniques have made it possible to create ripstop fabrics with less visible reinforcing threads, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing appearance while still maintaining their key functional characteristics.

In conclusion, ripstop fabrics are a specialized type of woven material designed to be tear-resistant and durable. Their unique construction, incorporating thicker reinforcement yarns in a crosshatch pattern, offers a high strength-to-weight ratio and prevents small tears from easily spreading. This makes ripstop fabrics an ideal choice for various applications, from outdoor gear and clothing to parachutes and other demanding uses.

PLAIN: Plain weave, also known as tabby, linen, or taffeta weave, is the simplest and most fundamental type of textile weave, alongside satin and twill weaves. Renowned for its strength and durability, plain weave is employed in both fashion and furnishing fabrics. In this weave, warp and weft threads intersect at right angles, creating a basic criss-cross pattern. Each weft thread alternates over and under the warp threads, with neighboring threads weaving in the opposite manner.

TWILL: Twill is a textile weave characterized by diagonal parallel ribs. As one of the three basic textile weaves, twill is created by passing the weft thread over and under multiple warp threads, with a step or offset between rows to form the signature diagonal pattern. This structure enables twill to drape well.

SATIN: Satin refers to a fabric's weave rather than the material itself. As one of the three fundamental textile weaves, satin typically features a glossy surface and a matte back. The satin weave is distinguished by at least four fill or weft yarns floating over a warp yarn, and vice versa. These floats contribute to the fabric's high luster and even sheen, as light reflection is not as scattered by the fibers as in other weaves. Satin is often used in apparel, including women's lingerie, nightgowns, blouses, evening gowns, boxer shorts, shirts, and neckties, as well as in interior furnishings, upholstery, and bedsheets.

CANVAS: Canvas is an incredibly durable plain-woven fabric, utilized in making sails, tents, marquees, backpacks, shelters, oil painting supports, and various other sturdy items. Fashion items such as handbags, electronic device cases, and shoes also employ canvas. Typically stretched across a wooden frame, canvas is a popular painting surface for artists. Modern canvas is primarily made of cotton or linen, with some including polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Historically, canvas was made from hemp. Unlike twill, canvas features a plain weave. Canvas is available in two main types: plain and duck, with the latter featuring more tightly woven threads.

PANAMA: The basketweave, or Panama weave, is a basic type of textile weave. It involves groups of warp and weft threads interlaced to form a simple criss-cross pattern. Each group of weft threads alternates over and under an equal number of warp threads. Basketweave is distinguishable by its checkered appearance, created by using two or more threads per group. The Panama weave can refer to a lightweight or midweight woolen fabric made with this weave, characterized by its softness, loose structure, and fine, grainy surface. It is used for men's and women's suits and dresses. The term "Panama" may also relate to the straw weave used in a Panama hat.

TENCEL® (Lyocell) is an innovative form of rayon, a versatile and sustainable fiber that has gained considerable attention in the textile industry. Developed through a unique process, TENCEL® is composed of cellulose fibers derived from dissolving wood pulp, specifically sourced from sustainably managed forests. The production method involves dissolving the cellulose in a non-toxic organic solvent, and then reconstituting it through the environmentally responsible dry jet-wet spinning process. This technique produces a high-quality fiber that boasts numerous advantages over traditional rayon.

One of the key distinctions between TENCEL® (Lyocell) and conventional rayon produced through the viscose process lies in the absence of harmful carbon sulfide in its production. Carbon sulfide is a toxic substance that poses significant risks to both workers and the environment. Consequently, the lyocell method represents a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to viscose production.

As a result of its superior production process, TENCEL® (Lyocell) fibers exhibit enhanced strength, durability, and moisture-wicking properties compared to conventional rayon. These fibers are highly desirable in the creation of textiles for clothing and various other applications, offering exceptional softness, breathability, and comfort.

Despite the numerous advantages of TENCEL® (Lyocell) fibers, their production is currently more expensive than the widespread viscose process. Nevertheless, increasing demand for eco-friendly and high-performance textiles has spurred continued investment in the development and optimization of the lyocell method.

The term "Lyocell" has evolved into a genericized trademark, often used to describe any cellulose fibers produced using the lyocell process. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission categorizes lyocell as a sub-category of rayon, defining it as a fiber "composed of cellulose precipitated from an organic solution in which no substitution of the hydroxyl groups takes place and no chemical intermediates are formed." This distinction highlights the unique characteristics and production methods that set TENCEL® (Lyocell) fibers apart from other forms of rayon.

Yarn-dyed fabric is created by dyeing the yarn into specific colors before weaving it into a design. Because the color is embedded in each strand from the start, the pattern becomes part of the fabric’s structure rather than just a surface print. This approach often involves extra time, planning, and engineering—factors that can lead to a slightly higher price point compared to piece-dyed or printed textiles.

How yarn-dyed fabrics are made

1. Selecting yarns Manufacturers choose high-quality yarns based on factors like fiber content (e.g., cotton, polyester, nylon) and thickness. These choices help determine the final look and feel of the woven fabric.
   

2. Dyeing process Each yarn is dyed separately in a carefully monitored environment. Temperature, dye concentration, and pH levels must be precise to achieve the desired shades and ensure color consistency.
   

3. Weaving the pattern Once the dyed yarns are ready, they are woven into the fabric according to a planned design. Because multiple colors may need to align perfectly, yarn-dyed weaving can be more complex than working with undyed or pre-dyed cloth.
   

Benefits of yarn-dyed fabrics

1. Vibrant, long-lasting colors Since the color is integrated into the yarn itself, the fabric typically retains its brightness through multiple washes. Fading is less common compared to printed designs that sit on the fabric’s surface.
   

2. Greater durability Yarn-dyed patterns do not peel, crack, or flake off because they aren’t added after the fabric is made. This built-in design is especially beneficial for items that see regular wear or washing.
   

3. Depth and texture The color variation running through each strand often results in a richer, more textured appearance. This can elevate the overall aesthetic of the fabric, making it stand out from printed alternatives.
   

4. Versatility Yarn-dyed techniques can produce everything from simple stripes to intricate jacquard patterns. Designers can experiment with multiple colors and weave structures to create unique looks for fashion, home décor, and accessories.
   

Common uses and applications

1. Apparel Yarn-dyed fabrics are popular for shirts, jackets, and dresses—especially when crisp stripes or checks are desired. They’re a staple in classic styles like plaid flannels and striped button-downs.
   

2. Home textiles Curtains, upholstery, table linens, and decorative pillows often benefit from the durability and visual appeal of yarn-dyed materials. Since the patterns are woven in, these items tend to keep their design details intact over time.
   

3. Accessories Scarves, hats, and bags made from yarn-dyed fabrics enjoy the same colorfastness and resilience as larger textile products. The yarn-dyed method allows for unique patterns that can add an extra touch of flair.
   

Final thoughts

Yarn-dyed fabrics stand out for their blend of beauty and durability. While the process involves more preparation—from carefully dyeing each yarn to weaving a precise pattern—the result is a fabric that maintains its vibrancy wash after wash. If you’re looking for materials that offer long-lasting color, intricate designs, and a touch of sophistication, yarn-dyed fabrics can be a worthwhile choice.

Fire-retardant fabrics are textiles that are more resistant to fire than others through chemical treatment or manufactured fireproof fibers.

The flame retardants work by coating the flammable fabrics with a mineral based barrier, preventing fire from reaching the fibres

As these chemicals are soluble in liquids-either water or dry cleaning fluid, these fabrics must be dry-cleaned with a non-liquid cleaning agent.

Durability and cleaning of fabric and drapes:

When a fabric is designated as inherently fire-retardant, permanently fire-retardant, or durably fire-retardant, the flame retardancy will last for the life of the fabric as it has been woven into the fabric fiber itself. The drapery can be laundered or dry-cleaned as recommended by the drapery manufacturer. In the case of fabrics that are designated as fire-retardant, that have been topically treated with chemicals, the flame retardancy of the fabric will dissipate over time, particularly with repeated cleaning. As these chemicals are soluble in liquids-either water or dry cleaning fluid, these fabrics must be dry-cleaned with a non-liquid cleaning agent. The flame retardants work by coating the flammable fabrics with a mineral based barrier, preventing fire from reaching the fibres.

Typically, the flame retardancy of topically treated fabric is certified for one year,though the actual length of time in which the treatment remains effective will vary based on the number of times the drapery is dry-cleaned and the environmental conditions in the location in which the drapery is used. It is recommended that topically treated drapery be re-tested for fire-retardancy on an annual basis and re-treated by a qualified professional as needed.

High-visibility clothing, sometimes shortened to hi vis or hi viz, is any clothing worn that is highly luminescent in its natural matt property or a color that is easily discernible from any background.

It is most commonly worn on the torso and arm area of the body. Health and safety regulations often require the use of high visibility clothing as it is a form of personal protective equipment.

Many colors of high visibility vests are available, with yellow and orange being the most common examples. Colors other than yellow or orange may not provide adequate luminescence for conformity to standards such as ISO 20471.

As a form of personal protective equipment, high-visibility clothing is worn to increase a person's visibility and therefore prevent accidents caused by persons not being seen. As a result, it is often worn in occupations where hazardous situations are created by moving vehicles or low lighting conditions.

These occupations include railway and road workers, airport workers and emergency services. Cyclists and motorcyclists may also use high-visibility clothing to increase their visibility when operating amongst motor traffic.

Hunters may be required to wear designated high-visibility clothing to prevent accidental shooting.

Some reflective tapes used on high-visibility clothing can reflect as much as 82% of the source light, causing retinal damage. It is therefore recommended[by whom?] that aircraft pilots, professional truck/bus drivers, and operators of heavy machinery refrain from wearing highly reflective clothing while conducting their duties. ISO 20471:2013 specifies requirements for high visibility clothing which is capable of visually signalling the user's presence. The high visibility clothing is intended to provide conspicuity of the wearer in any light condition when viewed by operators of vehicles or other mechanized equipment during daylight conditions and under illumination of headlights in the dark.Performance requirements are included for colour and retroreflection as well as for the minimum areas and for the placement of the materials in protective clothing.

Cordura® is a family of durable textile technologies known for their exceptional resistance to abrasions, tears, and scuffs. Often made with nylon 6,6 fibers, Cordura® fabrics have become a go-to option for products that need to withstand intensive use—like workwear, outdoor gear, backpacks, and luggage—while still offering everyday comfort.

Because Cordura® can be produced in different deniers (weights), it covers a range of needs: heavier varieties are commonly used to reinforce high-stress areas in work pants and uniforms, while lighter blends can appear in casual apparel that still benefits from extra durability. In addition, specialized versions like Cordura® Baselayer, Cordura® Denim, and Cordura® Duck combine nylon 6,6 with cotton to deliver comfort without sacrificing toughness.

One key advantage of Cordura® is its lifespan. Many items made with Cordura® last longer than those produced with standard materials, potentially lowering replacement costs. Maintenance is straightforward too—most Cordura® fabrics are machine washable, and their resilience to fading or shrinking helps keep them looking new over time.

Whether you need gear for professional use, outdoor adventures, or simply want products built to hold up to daily life, Cordura® offers a unique blend of long-lasting performance and versatility. Its reputation for toughness has earned it a place in military gear, performance wear, and everyday accessories, making Cordura® a trusted name for anyone seeking greater durability in their products.

Earth-Friendly REPREVE® is the world’s number one brand of recycled performance fiber.

Our high-quality fibers are made from 100% recycled materials, including post-consumer plastic bottles and pre-consumer waste.

They are also certified and traceable.

We created the REPREVE® brand to foster a sustainable world by diverting plastic bottles—billions of them—from landfills and oceans.

We also collect and reuse industrial waste, starting with our own.

Compared to virgin fiber, REPREVE® helps to offset the use of petroleum, emitting fewer greenhouse gases and conserving water and energy in the process.

Before we dive in, you must know that REPREVE is only a fibre, and not the fabric or the finished garment. Fabric mills purchase REPREVE yarn from Unifi, Inc (the manufacturer of REPREVE) and then weave the fabric. The finished fabric can either be 100% REPREVE or a hybrid with virgin polyester or other fibers (such as Spandex).

REPREVE polyester fiber can also have wicking, thermal comfort, and other performance technologies embedded in the fiber.

Unifi launched REPREVE in 2007, and it is now the world’s leading, branded recycled fiber. Many of the most recognizable, global brands in the world use REPREVE.

Unifi produces 300 million pounds of polyester and nylon fabric annually. To date, they have recycled more than 19 billion plastic bottles. Building from that momentum, Unifi is targeting 20 billion bottles recycled by 2020 and 30 billion bottles by 2022.

Plastic bottles, recycled into performance fibers.

Manufacturing Process

PET plastic bottles are recycled and collected. The bottles enter a unique material conversion process, where they are chopped, melted, and reformulated to form a recycled chip. The REPREVE chip then enters a proprietary extrusion and texturing process to form REPREVE recycled fiber.

The Global Recycle Standard (GRS) is based on tracking and tracing of recycled content. It uses a transaction certificate-based system, similar to organic certification, to ensure the highest level of integrity. This helps track recycled content throughout the value chain of certified final products.

The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) is a not-for-profit organisation that exists to make global cotton production better for the people who produce it, better for the environment it grows in and better for the sector’s future. Through BCI and its Partners, farmers receive training on how to use water efficiently, care for the health of the soil and natural habitats, reduce use of the most harmful chemicals and apply decent work principles. BCI Farmers implementing this system are licensed to sell Better Cotton.

You may have seen the BCI logo used on websites, in stores and in sustainability reports. Members invest in BCI and are, in turn, able to use the BCI logo in their marketing.

What does the BCI logo mean on product packaging?

BCI Members have the option to use product packaging as a channel to communicate to consumers about their commitment to more sustainable cotton production. When you see the BCI logo or ‘On-Product Mark’ on packaging, it does not mean the product is made of physically traceable Better Cotton. It means that you’re buying a majority cotton product, from a retailer or brand that is committed to sourcing Better Cotton and investing in BCI Farmers.

Who can use the BCI logo on product packaging?

Only committed BCI Members can use the BCI On-Product Mark. A Member must be sourcing at least 10% of their cotton as Better Cotton in order to start using the mark, with a plan to be sourcing at least 50% of their cotton as Better Cotton within five years. BCI monitors this progress and works closely with its Members to make sure claims made in association with the BCI logo reflect their engagement with the programme, and are transparent and credible.

What is ‘Mass-Balance’?

Mass-Balance is a term used to describe a supply chain methodology. Simply put, it means what comes out must balance with what went in. For example, if a retailer places an order for finished garments, like T-shirts, and requests one metric tonne of Better Cotton be associated with this order, a cotton farmer somewhere must produce one metric tonne of cotton to the Better Cotton Standard. This is then registered on BCI’s supply chain system, and credits for the order are passed through the supply chain for that same weight in cotton, from one factory to the next. What comes out is the equivalent amount of cotton that the farmer produced as Better Cotton, but it has been mixed in with conventional cotton in its journey from field to product.

If Better Cotton isn’t traceable, how can it be sourced?

As cotton moves through the supply chain and is converted into different products (for example, yarn, fabric and garments), credits are also passed along the supply chain. These credits represent volumes of Better Cotton a BCI Retailer or Brand Member has ordered. We define this as ‘sourcing’ Better Cotton. Sourcing volumes are tracked by BCI’s online sourcing platform. Physically traceable Better Cotton does not end up in the hands of the retailer that placed the order, however, the farmer benefits from the demand for Better Cotton in equivalent volumes to that ‘sourced’.

Why doesn’t BCI make Better Cotton physically traceable?

The cotton supply chain is complex. From field to store, there are often 12 or more stages in the supply chain. Physically tracing Better Cotton through the supply chain is time consuming and expensive, but more importantly, it is not necessary for us to meet our primary objectives. Ultimately, BCI is focused on making cotton production better for the environment it grows in and better for the sector’s future. Knowing where the Better Cotton ends up does not benefit BCI Farmers.

What are the benefits of ‘Mass-Balance’?

By using a system of Mass-Balance, BCI is able to reach more farmers, meaning more sustainable practices are being implemented around the world. Retailers pay a fee to BCI dependant on the volume of cotton they source as Better Cotton. BCI is then able to channel that money directly back into field level activities, such as training, assurance and reaching more cotton farmers. There are challenges in cotton production that need addressing today, and unblocking barriers to the demand of Better Cotton will enable BCI to reach our next milestone: 5 million farmers by 2020.

TENCEL® (Lyocell) is an innovative form of rayon, a versatile and sustainable fiber that has gained considerable attention in the textile industry. Developed through a unique process, TENCEL® is composed of cellulose fibers derived from dissolving wood pulp, specifically sourced from sustainably managed forests. The production method involves dissolving the cellulose in a non-toxic organic solvent, and then reconstituting it through the environmentally responsible dry jet-wet spinning process. This technique produces a high-quality fiber that boasts numerous advantages over traditional rayon.

One of the key distinctions between TENCEL® (Lyocell) and conventional rayon produced through the viscose process lies in the absence of harmful carbon sulfide in its production. Carbon sulfide is a toxic substance that poses significant risks to both workers and the environment. Consequently, the lyocell method represents a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to viscose production.

As a result of its superior production process, TENCEL® (Lyocell) fibers exhibit enhanced strength, durability, and moisture-wicking properties compared to conventional rayon. These fibers are highly desirable in the creation of textiles for clothing and various other applications, offering exceptional softness, breathability, and comfort.

Despite the numerous advantages of TENCEL® (Lyocell) fibers, their production is currently more expensive than the widespread viscose process. Nevertheless, increasing demand for eco-friendly and high-performance textiles has spurred continued investment in the development and optimization of the lyocell method.

The term "Lyocell" has evolved into a genericized trademark, often used to describe any cellulose fibers produced using the lyocell process. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission categorizes lyocell as a sub-category of rayon, defining it as a fiber "composed of cellulose precipitated from an organic solution in which no substitution of the hydroxyl groups takes place and no chemical intermediates are formed." This distinction highlights the unique characteristics and production methods that set TENCEL® (Lyocell) fibers apart from other forms of rayon.