Cut Waste, Not Corners

The Future is Green: Why Sustainable Materials are Worth It

Every project starts with fabric, but what we choose to sew with can have a bigger impact than we think. From how it’s made to where it ends up, fabric plays a major role in the footprint of any piece of gear.

As more makers become conscious of their environmental impact, there’s a growing shift toward eco-friendly materials, and not just for big outdoor brands. DIYers, small-batch creators, and weekend project warriors are all rethinking what sustainability looks like in their builds.

Whether you're sewing ultralight backpacks or experimenting with small gear builds, using more sustainable fabrics and materials is a small choice that can make a big difference.

Why Eco-Friendly Fabrics Matter

Fabric might seem like a small part of a project, but it plays a big role in the bigger picture. The textile industry is one of the most resource-intensive in the world, with many materials requiring large amounts of water, energy, and chemicals to produce. Add in the waste from overproduction, fast fashion, and synthetic materials that don’t break down, and the impact adds up fast.

For makers, that impact can feel personal. When you’re hands-on with your materials, you start to notice things: how much you’re throwing away, how long your projects last, and how certain fabrics just feel better to work with. Choosing eco-friendly materials is one way to reduce your footprint while still building high-performance, long-lasting gear.

Whether it’s recycled polyester, low-impact dyes, or biodegradable natural fibers, sustainable options are out there, and they’re getting better all the time.

What Makes a Fabric “Eco-Friendly”?

We hear the term “eco-friendly” all the time, but what really goes into making a fabric that earns that title?

It usually comes down to a few key things:

Recycled content: Fabrics made from recycled materials (like recycled polyester from plastic bottles) help reduce waste and lower the demand for new raw resources.
Lower-impact production: Some fabrics use less water, fewer chemicals, or more efficient energy during manufacturing.
Biodegradability: Natural fibers like hemp, organic cotton, or wool can break down over time, unlike many synthetics that sit in landfills for decades.
Certifications: Labels like OEKO-TEX®, GRS (Global Recycled Standard), and bluesign® help verify that fabrics meet certain environmental and safety standards.

But eco-friendly isn’t just about how a fabric is made; it’s also about how long it lasts. A durable material that you use for years (or can repair easily) is often more sustainable than something labeled “green” that wears out after one season.

The good news? Many of these fabrics perform just as well as, if not better than, traditional options. And yes, we carry them.

How Makers Can Sew More Sustainably

Going eco-friendly doesn’t mean you have to overhaul everything overnight. Small choices, especially at the DIY level, can add up to a bigger impact over time. Here are a few simple ways makers can sew more sustainably:

Choose eco-friendly materials: Look for recycled or certified fabrics when possible. Even swapping one fabric in a project makes a difference.
Use your leftovers: That bin of fabric scraps? Turn them into small pouches, zipper pulls, patch kits, or even organizer panels.
Design with durability in mind: The longer your gear lasts, the less often it ends up in a landfill. Reinforce stress points and choose hardware that holds up.
Support sustainable suppliers: Work with companies that prioritize transparency and eco-conscious materials (like us!).

The best part? Sewing sustainably often leads to better builds, more thoughtful designs, less waste, and gear that’s made to last.

Eco-Friendly Materials at Rockywoods

We’re always on the lookout for high-performance fabrics and materials that are tough on the trail but easy on the planet. These recycled picks check both boxes. No matter what you’re building, these materials deliver durability and a lower footprint.

ECOPAK by Challenge Sailcloth stands out as one of our top picks, and here’s why we love it:

Built with 100% recycled polyester components
Every yard saves around one pound of carbon emissions compared to standard nylon or polyester
Features a multi-ply construction with a recycled face fabric, blue CrossPly yarn for strength, and a 70d recycled ripstop backing

Need help choosing the right fabric? Our team is always happy to help you determine what is best for your build and your goals.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Eco-friendly sewing isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being intentional. The materials you choose can shape not just your gear but the impact you leave behind.

As makers, we have the power to rethink how things are built. Choosing sustainable fabrics is one small shift that can lead to better habits, better gear, and a better future.

At Rockywoods, we're excited to be part of that movement, supporting creators who care about performance, quality, and the planet. Let's keep building gear that works hard and treads lightly.

Ready to try a more sustainable build? Explore our recycled and eco-conscious fabrics and get started on your next project today.

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