Why I ditched synthetic clothing for good

For many years, natural fabrics were just a vague idea in my life – something I noticed only here and there, without truly appreciating their value. It wasn’t until I began making clothing for my son about 11 years ago that I started paying attention to natural fibres.

Before that, my memories of natural fabrics were tinted by my teenage years, when my mum went through a phase of being obsessed with hemp handbags and my best friend had a thing for garments made from cheesecloth.

Fast forward to 2020, when I really got into making my own clothes. Suddenly, natural fabrics became more than just a nostalgic nod – they became a vital part of my creative and personal journey. I would happily splash out on beautiful, pricey natural fabrics for skirts, tops and jackets. Yet, paradoxically, I gave little thought to what I was wearing closest to my skin.

For years, every winter without fail, I suffered from a persistent, painful rash on my arms, torso and legs. I blamed it on bug bites (maybe because of living near water?!) but multiple visits to pharmacists and doctors yielded no clear answers. The rash worsened, sometimes becoming infected. A year ago, I found myself miserable and desperate for relief. Steroid creams helped temporarily, but I knew something deeper was wrong.

Then, in a sudden moment of clarity, I realised the culprit: my winter thermal base layers. They were made of acrylic – a synthetic fabric derived from fossil fuels. Acrylic fabric is produced by reacting petroleum or coal-based chemicals into a polymer called acrylonitrile. Essentially, I had been wearing skin-tight plastic all these years. Grim!

I switched to merino wool base layers. They cost three times more, but the change was miraculous. My skin cleared up immediately and hasn’t flared since. That investment was worth every penny – not only for my health but also for the comfort and warmth natural wool provides. (I also ditched our polycotton blend bedlinen in favour of hemp and let me tell you: it’s a gamechanger!)

Why I use only natural fabrics in my studio

This experience deepened my commitment to natural fibres, which is why at Sylva Stitch Studio, I exclusively use natural fabrics. Natural fibres like hemp, linen and wool offer numerous benefits:

• breathability: they allow your skin to breathe, reducing irritation and overheating

• sustainability: they come from renewable sources and biodegrade naturally, unlike synthetic fabrics which contribute to microplastic pollution

• durability: natural fibres age beautifully and often become softer and more comfortable over time

• connection: I believe fabrics carry different energy frequencies and that natural fibres feel grounding and healing.

Natural fibres in a natural setting

At Sylva, you’re not just working with fabric – you’re connecting with nature itself. My garden studio is surrounded by trees and birdsong, a perfect sanctuary to slow down, create and feel the natural energy of the fibres you’re stitching.

I warmly invite you to join one of my sewing sessions, where you can experience first-hand the joy and comfort of working with natural fabrics in a peaceful, inspiring environment. Together, we’ll celebrate the beauty of sustainable textiles and the deep connection between fabric, skin and the earth.