Fabric production
- Steps: Spinning → Knitting/Weaving → Finishing → Quality Control → Shipping
- Why this is important: Every step affects the feel, durability & quality of the finished fabric
- Quality focus: regular checks & clear standards in processing
- Transparency: Details regarding origin and certifications are available with the product
- Note: Process & partners may vary depending on the item
SPINNING
Spinning, like weaving, is one of the oldest (cultural) techniques of humankind.
The processes were gradually refined over time, and new techniques of thread production emerged successively.
The product of spinning is called yarn. The most important characteristics of spun yarn.
Besides the fiber used, the weight per length (yarn fineness) and the strength (reference elongation/tearing strength) are important.
At Lebenskleidung, we exclusively use high-quality combed ring and compact yarns.
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Organic cotton for spinning
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A look at the spinning machine
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The spinning machine is constantly monitored.
THE KNITTING AND WEAVING
Knitting/weaving is the step in which the yarn becomes a textile.
Circular knitting machines are characterized by the fact that that the circuit boards and needles are arranged in a circle. The yarns are fed into the so-called tongue needle, which is then closed so that the thread is transported through the stitch.
The circuit board ensures that the finished stitches are kept at the same height. During weaving,
two thread systems are crossed at right angles. The taut threads are called warp threads, the
threads passing through are called weft threads. The way the yarns are interlaced also determines the nature of the finished fabric.
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Knitting fabric is a craft.
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We are proud of our good relationships with our knitters
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Of course, fun shouldn't be missing either.
TEXTILE FINISHING
Textile finishing encompasses all steps that follow the production of the textile. This includes pretreatments such as mercerizing or shrinking, but also coloring processes, and finally the finishing.
All these steps at Lebenskleidung are carried out exclusively according to the strict guidelines of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
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The goods are being prepared for dyeing
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The goods are shrunk
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The goods are dyed in dyeing drums
IMPRESSIONS FROM OUR PRODUCTION IN PORTUGAL
GOODS INSPECTION
Quality control is one of the most important steps before a fabric can be shipped to you. On a light table, the fabric is meticulously inspected meter by meter for defects, which are then documented. It is also measured and sampled. Laboratory tests, which assure both us and you that the fabric does not exceed certain predefined limits, are also part of a thorough quality control process. These tests are carried out by independent laboratories.
INTERNAL GOODS CONTROL IN OUR WAREHOUSE IN WILSUM
At our external warehouse in Wilsum, the fabrics undergo a final quality check, are cut to size, and doubled before being shipped to you. Even though you're hardly aware of what's happening at this warehouse, an incredible amount of work is being done there every single day – and we owe our friends on the German-Dutch border more than just a thank you!
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The goods are inspected again on the light table
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The fabric is doubled by the meter
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The cutting is done as required
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PRODUCTION
What does "value chain" mean in the context of clothing?
By this we mean the individual steps a fabric goes through – from raw material to spinning, knitting or weaving and finishing, right through to quality control and shipping. Each step influences the quality, feel and durability of the material.
Are all the steps always the same – or do they vary depending on the fabric?
This can vary depending on the item. Fabric type, finish, intended use, and availability all affect the process. You can always find the most important information about origin, composition, and – if applicable – certifications directly with the respective product.
What happens during the refining process?
Fabric finishing encompasses processes such as pretreatments, dyeing, finishing, and mechanical steps that determine a fabric's appearance, feel, and function. The specific finishing process a fabric undergoes depends on the product and its intended use.
How do you ensure the quality of your fabrics?
We adhere to clear quality standards and inspect fabrics throughout the entire supply chain. This includes visual inspections as well as – depending on the fabric – further tests (e.g., for dimensional accuracy, color, or material properties). In this way, we minimize defective batches and ensure consistently high quality.
What exactly does goods inspection mean for you?
During quality control, the fabric sold by the meter is inspected – for example, for visible defects, deviations, or irregularities. We also conduct random checks and document any irregularities to ensure that the fabrics arrive reliably at your location.
Are your fabrics always GOTS-certified?
Not all fabrics are certified. We carry both certified goods and selected deadstock items. Whether and which certifications are present is always clearly indicated directly with the respective product.