Our Supply Chain
Cotton Cultivation
Although farming equipment and methods have progressed over time, one thing has persisted: a farmer’s' commitment to its fields. It takes approximately 160 days for cotton to mature and be ready for harvesting after being planted. Immediately after the cotton bolls burst open, the farmer prepares for harvesting. Since, not all these fluffy balls of cotton reach maturity simultaneously, they are handpicked by the farmers over several days. We focus on integrating indigenous landraces of cotton that are rainfed crops and have a high tolerance for both disease and pests, and require minimal investment. The cotton is cultivated in the states of Gujarat, Karnataka and Maharashtra.
Spinning
The spinner holds the fluffed cotton in one hand, and gently allows it to flow while pulling on to few fibers from the other hand, the fibers are then twisted in one direction to form the cotton thread which will later be used for weaving. Spinning is now mostly achieved with the Ambar Charkha, a modern variant of the spinning wheel. We celebrate indigenous landraces of cotton such as Kala Cotton and Brown Cotton that come with a defiant refusal to comply with the existing industrial supply chain due to their coarse texture and short staple length. And so, these fibres have to be handspun into yarn.
Dyeing
We partner with grassroots organizations that work with weaving and dyeing communities. The dyers meticulously prepare the ingredients to create our chosen colours. They carefully select natural pigments and determine the appropriate quantities and dyeing durations needed to achieve the desired colour and texture. Ingredients can range from myrobalan, indigo, and turmeric to pomegranate peel, madder, and catechu.
Weaving
Lafaani partners with grassroots organizations that work closely with weaving communities and uphold the same values. They regard these artisans not as mere workers but as co-creators of their textiles. The makers of our textiles hail from various states: from Gujarat, where we source our Kala Cotton; from Madhya Pradesh, where we source organic cotton of varying weights; from Karnataka, which provides the naturally almond-hued Brown Cotton; and from West Bengal, where we source the sheer mulmul and other lightweight fabrics.
Preparing the loom itself is a time-intensive process, requiring careful setup and attention to detail. The weaving process demands exceptional skill, generational knowledge, and immense pride in the work. These artisans embody a rich heritage of craftsmanship, ensuring each textile is a masterpiece of tradition and quality.
Designing
Designing clothes is about much more than creating an item for someone to wear; it is an expression of creativity and uniqueness. At Lafaani, we believe that designing is about being a visionary. Our design process is guided by four sustainable design principles: Design for Longevity, Craft Collaborations, Multi-functionality, and Upcycling. The design process at Lafaani requires finding creative solutions to challenges, ensuring that each piece not only embodies artistic vision but also meets the highest standards of sustainability and functionality. By adhering to these principles, we create timeless garments that reflect our commitment to ethical fashion and environmental stewardship.
Pattern Making
Pattern making is akin to creating a blueprint for a garment. Based on the templates crafted by our skilled pattern makers, the fabric is precisely cut. These artisans are essential in transforming our vision into a finished product. At Lafaani, we employ low-waste and zero-waste pattern making techniques to minimize waste production, ensuring our commitment to sustainability is upheld throughout the design and production process.
Cutting and Stitching
The term "tailor" originates from the Latin word "taliare," meaning "to cut." Essentially, a tailor is skilled in refining the fit of clothing by cutting and adjusting it. Similarly, our tailors at Lafaani concentrate on the design, cut, and meticulous stitching of garments. They carefully piece together fabrics, paying close attention to seams, to craft a well-fitted garment. Embracing the ethos of slow fashion, we believe that every product we create is worth the effort and patience. Each silhouette is meticulously cut, embroidered, assembled, and finished at our workshop in Delhi, ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality.
Embroidery and Finishing
With precision and patience, our embroiderers skillfully create intricate designs. We hold a deep appreciation for the characteristic running stitch of Kantha, an ancient style of hand embroidery, inspired by its origins. This age-old practice reflects a profound ethos of minimizing waste and respecting limited resources, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability. Through our designs, processes, and practices, we aim to convey this timeless way of living. Furthermore, the versatility of Kantha embroidery seamlessly integrates with other hand embroidery techniques, aligning perfectly with our pursuit of simple, timeless aesthetics suited for the contemporary world.