Fiber Beauty

I continue to create dishcloths from cotton fiber. Cotton is a soft, fluffy staple fiber, composed of many individual fibers that vary in length. It’s a natural, renewable resource, biodegradable and recyclable. Cotton is a completely natural fiber, meaning it’s derived from a plant, not synthetically created. Cotton has been used by humans for over 8,000 years, with evidence of its cultivation found in both the Old and New Worlds. Cotton is a renewable resource, meaning the plants can be regrown and harvested again. When disposed of, cotton fibers will naturally decompose, unlike many synthetic materials. Cotton is used in a wide variety of products, from clothing and bedding to towels and even paper money. Unlike many fabrics, cotton actually becomes stronger when it gets wet. Cotton is known for its ability to absorb moisture, making it comfortable to wear and useful in products like towels. Cotton is grown in many countries around the world, with the top producers including China, India, and the United States. Cotton fiber is composed of cellulose, a natural polymer. Organizations like the Better Cotton Initiative work towards making cotton production more sustainable, focusing on environmental and social responsibility Cotton can be left natural or beautifully dyed to create yarn that can be crocheted or knit into garments, towels, placemats, etc.