A BIG LEAP

Over the last 7 years, I  have watched the organic textile industry evolve and progress.  I have been keeping careful tabs on the labels and what they mean.  Authenticity and accountability for the environmental and social impact of textile production are why I launched Harmony Art and it has definitely been a journey!

Certification Status Report
2004 - OTA adopts American Organic Fiber Processing Standard (AOFPS).
2005 - Harmony Art organic design is founded.  40 different "eco fabric" standards exist.
2005 - Harmony Art chooses the OTA's AOFPS for her fabrics.
2006 - Global Organic Textile Standard - GOTS version 1 is finalized.
2007 - Harmony Art fabrics produced in India are 3rd party certified to GOTS.
2008 - GOTS logo (above) is introduced.
2011 - Harmony Art applies for GOTS certification!*

*What does this mean?  Nothing and everything.  Nothing because the fabric has already been made and certified to GOTS standards.  Everything because we (Fox-Rich & Harmony Art) will be the FIRST US distributors not only to sell GOTS certified fabrics but to BE GOTS certified.  

So, what does that mean?  Well, for ANY product to carry the GOTS logo ALL of the "chain of command" upstream need to be certified.  Example:  If you were to make baby clothes and you sourced GOTS fabrics and wanted to use the GOTS logo on your hang tags, your fabric supplier (not the fabric itself) would need to be GOTS certified AND your facility would also need to go through the certification process.  This step now opens the doors for any of our customers to pursue GOTS certification themselves for their end products.  

Why has it taken us so long to take this leap you ask?  Well, two reasons -- 1.  We wanted to be sure the certification had the momentum to be THE organic fabric certification   2. It's expensive! 

Why is this important?  Well, remember "organic" food before the NOP logo?  That's the stage we are in now and certification is an important step in keeping organic fabrics authentic and easily identifiable to the end consumer.

This week I submitted the 20+ page application and a large check to OneCert.  After reviewing the documents, an inspector will be sent to our warehouse in South Carolina and the certifying will begin.  I look forward to keeping you posted through the process.