South East England Fibreshed
In the South East region we are lacking in the fibre processing tools, facilities and skills to create a regional textile system. This ‘missing middle’ is a problem for many affiliated fibresheds. There are also other practical considerations that need addressing such as the storage and transportation of raw material for farmers with fibre products. Beyond this there are overarching disparities between the nature of the textile industry and our farming systems, which need addressing. Expectations of consumption and the rapidity of design cycles are completely out of step with the capacities and rhythms of the land. The economic structures which facilitate this unbalanced industry need rethinking.
Every fibreshed has its own unique focus and aims based on the context of its location. We recognise that wool is currently undervalued and under utilised in the South East region and we are working to try to change that. We are committed to supporting farmers who are working with adaptive multi-paddock grazing and connecting them with designers for fashion and interiors. Alongside this, we provide education opportunities to designers through farm visits.
The South East England Fibreshed is evolving slowly in step with the capacity of those involved, all of whom work for the Fibreshed on a freelance basis. Mindful of not reproducing the fast paced and often extractive nature of the mainstream fashion industry, we are focusing on slowly creating meaningful change and remaining sensitive to the needs of everyone involved.