Valdese Unveils Environmentally-Friendly Performance Fabric

December 4, 2017  by Larry Thomas in Business Strategy, Green, Industry   

Called Inside Out, the new line is treated with a plant-based, fluorine-free stain repellent that allows the fabric to resist everyday spills, the company said.

Blake Millinor, chief sales and marketing officer, said a range of multi-fiber constructions are available, noting that the proprietary fibers are enhanced with fade-resistant technology to ensure superior colorfastness.

The line is being launched at this week’s Showtime fabric fair, which runs through Wednesday in High Point, N.C.

It was developed in partnership with popular designer, artist and blogger Justina Blakeney, who will be in the Valdese showroom today to discuss the new collection.

“The Inside Out brand speaks to the bohemian lifestyle that fuels my work,” said Blakeney. “I’m an advocate for breaking down the barriers between external and internal living spaces. With Inside Out, I’ve developed creative and colorful ‘everywhere’ fabrics that transcend boundaries without giving up style.”

Because Valdese created its own performance yarns for Inside Out, it develops not only basic components but also novelty yarns that greatly expand the weave structure and hand a designer can achieve with performance fabrics.

And the company said its in-house dyeing capabilities mean unlimited color options, a must when dealing with Blakeney’s preference for wide-ranging color palettes.

“It’s no surprise that Justina’s free-spirited, bohemian vibe pairs perfectly with her new fabrics which are full of colors, patterns, flowers and plants,” said Valdese Weavers Chief Creative Officer Laura Levinson. “Shades of indigo, poppy, citrine and bright pinks all layer together to create her signature palette. Designs in the new line feature botanicals, funky geometrics, bold abstracts and whimsical birds.”