UKFT member Blackhorse Lane Ateliers has been awarded a grant from the Business of Fashion, Textiles and Technology (BFTT) Small to Medium Enterprises Creative R&D Programme to launch a state-of-the-art research and development facility to develop sustainable laundering and finishing techniques. The craft jeans maker will manage and maintain the facility for industry use across the board, creating a new know-how here in the UK for designers and students on how to wash and finish garments in a sustainable way.

This will be London’s first-ever Washing Lab, and working closely with the Centre for Circular Design at Chelsea College of Arts (UAL) to develop R&D around sustainable laundering and finishing techniques the project aims to build a unique ‘London’ denim-washing aesthetic inspired by the principles of the circular economy.

This joint study has already begun to raise awareness in the academic community of the importance of sustainable washing and finishing techniques in ensuring that garments meet standards of best-practice even in the later stages of manufacturing.

Find out more: BUSINESS OF FASHION TEXTILES & TECHNOLOGY

Find out more: Blackhorse Lane Ateliers

Blackhorse Lane Ateliers on LetsMakeItHere

Blackhorse Lane Ateliers makes and sells ready-to-wear selvedge and organic raw denim jeans from its atelier in London, England with a focus on sustainability, community and unmatched quality. Blackhorse Lane Ateliers opened its doors in April 2016, leveraging the company’s founder Bilgehan “Han” Ates’ 25 years of experience in the textile industry.

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