25 October 2008

Of all the crafts that are threatened by mass-production and low-priced imports, perhaps the manufacture of clothing heads the endangered list. The only real counter measures are for crafters to focus on quality, suitability, and the ability to adapt to changing local demands and individual requirements.

A personal signature that gives a uniqueness to these garments also helps greatly to cultivate and maintain a customer base. And somehow for customers, that personal aspect of knowing the face behind the garments, adds an intangible value to what one adds to one's wardrobe.

A personal signature that gives a uniqueness to these garments also helps greatly to cultivate and maintain a customer base. And somehow for customers, that personal aspect of knowing the face behind the garments, adds an intangible value to what one adds to one's wardrobe.

A personal signature that gives a uniqueness to these garments also helps greatly to cultivate and maintain a customer base. And somehow for customers, that personal aspect of knowing the face behind the garments, adds an intangible value to what one adds to one's wardrobe.

From humble beginnings, Ray Rhoda has worked her way through the maze of the rag trade, eventually becoming the new owner of the business Cotton Craft, when its then owners retired after 22 years of trading.

As the name of her business implies, Ray favours cotton and uses only 100% cotton fabrics. The advantages of cotton are well known, especially for our warm climate. Its ability to breathe and absorb, together with its softness on the skin, make for great comfort, while the textural attributes of cotton impart elegance and a relaxed sophistication to garments.

The international swing towards the promotion of renewable resources, and consequently natural fibres, adds extra justification to Ray's choice of cotton for her garments.

While Ray plans to extend the range of her cotton goods to include bedding items and table ware, at present she is focussing on producing an attractive and comfortable range of sleepwear and day shirts for both men and women. She also accepts orders to produce garments to the customer's specifications.

Ray manufactures all her garments herself from start to finish and therefore has a hands-on and passionate control over quality. At her demonstration, she will be showing the techniques she uses in their manufacture and visitors will be able to see the process as garments evolve from cloth lengths to completed items.

Ray invites all visitors to the next Country Craft Market on 25 October to call at her stall to view her range of cotton-wear, and gain an appreciation for the craft and care that goes into their manufacture.

Last Updated 23 December 2011 01:06