About Fine Fabric

When Color of Heat first began the search for locally woven fabric, it initially was difficult to track down. Kat, alongside her assistant, Âme, frequently embark on fabric-hunting expeditions in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand. Their prime destination? The busy Warorot Market, known by the locals as "Kad Luang", which means 'big market'. Here, a myriad of stalls stand side by side, most offering fabrics imported from china and other larger textile industries, which have been overshadowing the locally woven fabric industry in recent years.

While these new cotton fabrics have undeniable charm and quality, they also hold true to the essence of Northern Thailand's local and traditional craftsmanship. Choosing to source these local fabrics is not just about producing high-quality garments, it's a testament to supporting community artisans and contributing to a sustainable, eco-conscious fashion narrative. At the heart of Color of Heat is a mission—to ensure that every piece not only lasts for a lifetime (or even more) but also stays true to ethical and environmental responsibilities.

Many of the fine fabrics selected by Kat and Âme come from dedicated local weavers located in provinces like Chiang Mai, Lampang, and Lampun. What makes these fabrics truly unique is their seasonality. Each season introduces a distinct style, with colors and patterns reflecting the time of year.

In Thailand, most weavers are local individuals who craft textiles not as their primary profession but as a leisure activity. This artistry is intimately intertwined with the natural rhythms of life. When the rice fields demand attention during harvest season, looms are set aside, and weaving takes a pause. The locals return to their looms when the fields are quiet, ensuring that every piece of fabric tells not just a story of craftsmanship but also one of life, culture, and harmony with nature.

Kat had anticipated that building connections with local weavers and scouring new sources for high-quality fabrics might pose challenges. However, the challenge didn't end there! As the team began testing samples, they encountered some unexpected issues with the fabrics. Certain fabrics exhibited varying degrees of shrinkage, even after our initial pre-shrinking wash. It just goes to show that there will always be a learning curve when working with new materials.

Nevertheless, challenges spur innovation. To address the unpredictable size changes after washing, the team adjusted their designs based on the new measurements. For the stubborn fabrics that continued to shrink even after pre-washing, a thorough wet press ensured they were perfectly prepared for our valued customers.

With every purchase from our Fine Fabric Collection, you help preserve cultural traditions and support the women who weave these stories into every thread.