about ...
Our Process
1st we DESIGN - we make basic patterns in each size to represent new designs.
2nd we CUT - each garment is cut by hand based on your size choice or measurements. Small tweaks can be made during this process.
3rd we SEW - we serge and straight stitch all our garments together for super strong and durable seams. All sewing is completed by Andrea, Kate, Jennifer, Nancy, and Deanna
4th we DYE - each garment is hand dyed by Andrea either with natural plant dyes or eco friendly fiber reactive dyes
Because all pieces are hand cut, sewn, and dyed please expect variations in each garment. These subtle differences should be celebrated as the mark of a hand made piece created especially for you!
It usually takes us 2-4 weeks from time of purchase to create your unique Gaia Conceptions Creation.
Our Future Goals
Gaia Conceptions currently works out of a lovely old house in downtown greensboro, NC. We are now searching for a farm to relocate to. This is a big step in making our process as holistic and sustainable as possible.
THE FARM
RAINWATER HARVESTING
- Our goal is to build a rain water catchment and grey water purification system for our dye process.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY- We also will be installing solar panels for all our energy needs.
- Being located in NC also puts us close to the biggest Bio Diesel refinery on the east coast. We are slowly converting all our machinery to diesel to take advantage of this more eco friendly option.
PERMACULTURE
- My partner David will be incorporating edibles and natural dye plants into the landscape where graceful
SLOW CLOTHING
LOCAL FIBERS
- Developing specialty organic cotton fabrics with our local mill
- Working with local farms to produce organic wool fabrics
- Working with local organic farms to use cow and sheep hides for leather goods. We would like to offer leather items here at Gaia Conceptions but will not move forward unless we can get our hides both locally and sustainably.
NATURAL DYES - Using natural plant dyes whenever possible to achieve our colors. The art of natural dyeing is a labor intensive skill that can take a lifetime to master. Andrea, the designer behind Gaia Conceptions is dedicated to learning this artform.
- There will soon be a build your own area here on the site where you can design your perfect garment!!
GREEN JOBS
- To create more green jobs both locally and through the sourcing of our materials
The Farm In India
We are currently working with a small non profit group dedicated to preserving the art of natural dye block printing in India. Together we have designed a series of simple organic fabrics that will be incorporated into our clothing come Spring/Summer 2012. Video and more pictures will be here soon!!!
This project has taken 5 years to develop and has taught us that great things come to those who wait.
The Studio
PLEASE CONTACT JOEY TO SCHEDULE A VISIT
visitgaiahouse@gmail.com
The best times frames for us are...
Monday 10-3
Tuesday 10-3
Friday 12-4
Sun 12-3
Store Location :
Gaia Conceptions
1004 North Elm st
Greensboro, NC 27401