Immerse yourself in the world of denim fabric with our comprehensive exploration of its origin, distinctive characteristics and current trends. Learn how this iconic textile has evolved over time and get inspired to incorporate denim into your creative projects.

What is denim fabric?

Jeans are an iconic fabric that has stood the test of time and trends, becoming a staple in our wardrobes. Whether you're a casual style enthusiast or a fashion enthusiast, it's hard to deny the cultural impact and fascinating history behind this fabric. Are you familiar with its captivating story?

The history of jeans

The word "Jean" itself has interesting origins since it comes from a cotton twill fabric called "Fustine de Gênes"; often used to make durable workwear. In the United States, workers called their work clothes "Jeans", after the city of Genoa, where the fabric was originally woven .

At the time, the Republic of Genoa was renowned for the export of this textile, which was sought after throughout Europe. Genoese sailors were particularly known for wearing denim clothing, as the material was durable and strong. The sails of Genoese ships were also made of this textile. As sailors traveled and traded, denim began to spread to other regions, gaining popularity and becoming synonymous with quality and longevity.

It is thanks to this reputation and the diffusion of jeans through trade that Levi Strauss, a German immigrant, chose this textile to create his famous denim pants at the end of the 19th century in California. Levi Strauss pants, initially intended for manual workers, quickly conquered a wider audience, transforming jeans into an essential item of clothing thanks to their quality and robustness.

So, although the term "jeans" originated in Italy, it was thanks to the ingenuity of Levi Strauss and the growing popularity of jeans in the United States that this garment gained its worldwide fame and place in the world. history of fashion. Today, denim remains a symbol of style, versatility and durability, continuing the legacy of its past while remaining an essential piece of our modern wardrobes.

Now that you know the fascinating history of jeans, you are surely curious to discover the secrets of their manufacture. Delve into the details and explore the artisanal techniques as well as the modern processes that transform these raw materials into an iconic fabric. Prepare to be amazed by the innovations and key steps that go into creating the denim you know and love.

The making of jeans

Denim manufacturing is a process that combines both traditional artisanal techniques and modern technological advances to achieve the durable, versatile and timeless fabric we all love.

The jeans we offer you are recycled, so they are labeled “Global Recycled Standard”.

Denim is primarily made from cotton yarns, chosen for their strength and durability.

Spinning

Cotton fibers are carefully spun into threads. These threads are then twisted together to create warp threads and weft threads, which are the fundamental elements of jeans.

Weaving

Weaving is a crucial step where the warp threads and the weft threads are intertwined to form the fabric. Denim is typically woven using a technique called "twill weave." This creates a distinctive diagonal texture, known as the diagonal Z effect, which characterizes denim.

Dyeing

Once the fabric is woven, it is dyed to give it its iconic blue color. Indigo dye, widely used, is applied in successive dye baths. The fabric is then aired to allow the color to fully develop.

Finishes

After dyeing, the jeans undergo various finishes to give them the desired final appearance. Washing, brushing, aging and treatment processes can be used to create effects such as washed denim, distressed denim or raw denim.

Once the denim is made, it is ready to be used in making iconic garments such as jeans, jackets and shirts.

How to sew with denim?

Denim is a versatile and sturdy fabric that offers many creative sewing possibilities. Whether you want to make pants, a skirt, a jacket, or even accessories, sewing with denim can seem intimidating at first. But don't worry, in this handy guide we will provide you with tips and tricks to help you succeed in your sewing projects using denim. Discover specific techniques, necessary tools, as well as tips for finishing and caring for your denim creations.

Choice of jeans

Choose the ideal type of jeans that perfectly matches your sewing project. Consider the weight of the jeans depending on the type of garment or accessory you want to make.

Classic denim is a go-to choice for many sewing projects. Whether you prefer it stretch or non-stretch, you benefit from exceptional versatility. You can create an impressive variety of clothing and accessories, such as pants, jackets, overalls, skirts, dresses, bustiers, shorts, cushions, bags and even beanbags.

Also explore the endless possibilities of fine denim, whether stretchy or not, for creating summer clothes and trendy accessories such as shirts, dresses, skirts, flowing pants, shorts, light jackets, bags, cushions, bananas and even tablecloths.

Choice of accessories

Use a suitable needle, such as a jeans needle or a good quality universal needle. We advise you to sew with Schmetz 130/705 90/14 or 100/16 needles for thicker thicknesses.

Use a presser foot suitable for sewing on denim, such as a denim presser foot or a dual feed presser foot.

Do not hesitate to lengthen your stitch length if you use reinforced stitches, such as the zigzag stitch or the triple stitch, to ensure the strength of the seams.

Jean care

The specific care instructions for our jeans to preserve their durability are specified on the site. The denim is washable at maximum 30°C, can be dry cleaned, tumble dried and can also be ironed at maximum 110°C but do not use bleach on this fabric. Avoid overloading your washing machine and turn jeans inside out before washing to avoid excess wear.

Sewing with denim can be a real pleasure once you master the proper techniques and tips. So, get out your sewing machine and get started on some creative projects with denim!

We offer several simple tutorials on our blog if you are new to sewing, also find us on Facebook , Instagram and TikTok !