Sustainability can be approached in different ways. It is always about making better choices. This can be done by choosing certain materials, but also by using what is already there. In the Autumn/Winter 2024 collection by Kuyichi, we have chosen deadstock fabrics. What is deadstock, why are these fabrics a problem, how do we use them, and how can you contribute?'

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What is deadstock?

Around 100 billion garments are produced worldwide every year. Billions of meters of fabric are made for these clothes. Often more fabric is made than is really needed, which results in stocks that are gathering dust. This is also called 'deadstock' fabric. Fabric that is no longer used for its original purpose. This can be due to overproduction or changing trends and seasons. Ultimately, many fabrics are not used and these fabrics are then called: 'deadstock'.

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Is deadstock fabric sustainable?

The problem of deadstock is quite clear. First of all, a lot of water, energy and raw materials are used for the production of the fabrics. In addition, these residual materials are sometimes transported from another continent, which results in a lot of emissions. But perhaps the biggest problem is that the residual materials are not used and are therefore often burned or deposited on textile waste heaps. To prevent this, there is a simple solution. Reuse the fabric for new clothing.

Why do we use 'deadstock' fabrics?

At Kuyichi, we see waste in the textile industry as a major problem. In order to prevent waste as much as possible, we make extensive use of organic materials (less chemical waste and water consumption), recycled materials and textile waste from our own production process. This season, we can also add 'deadstock' materials to that list. For example, we use fabric that is often already labelled as 'waste' and we are taking on the challenge of reducing the waste pile and waste in the textile industry.

"For example, we use fabric that is often already labelled as 'waste' and we are taking on the challenge of reducing the waste pile and waste in the textile industry."

How can you help reduce waste?

You can also help to reduce the waste mountain. By consciously choosing quality over quantity, you will need new clothes less often. If you opt for clothes made from recycled or deadstock materials, it is even better. This reduces the demand for new production and raw materials, and therefore also 'deadstock' fabrics.

In addition, reuse and recycling of clothing starts with you. Therefore, never throw clothes in the bulky waste, because then it will definitely end up in an oven or on a landfill. Instead, pass your clothes on to friends or family, repair or upcycle your clothes, go to a clothes swap or donate them to a charity. Plenty of options!