C E R E S T U D I O A S A F E P L A C E F O R Y O U R H O M E
From the Latin, “Cere” meaning ' wax ' , a waxy structure that covers the base of the bills of some bird species from a handful of families
Peaceand Comfort
Imperfecttexture yetuniquely made
Plant-based pigments Forgotten Craftmanship
Cere Studio wanted to emphasize the beauty of simplicity through our designs, materials, and individual craftsmanship It includes imperfect, uneven surfaces, and texture, yet uniquely made by each individual from the Cere Team, with access to exclusive materials, Mohair and Jacob Wool, creating a safe place for your home to unveil the hidden vulnerability
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Photography by Anna Le
Created by Austin Che, Anna Le, Burak Yilmaz, Selin Ersayin
“Upon starting this project, I explored different mediums and textile production techniques I had never tried before and limited myself to. I tried hand-knitting for the first time, it was a learning experience of testing, analyzing, and practicing the process Farm-to-fabric is a learning challenge for me, yet seeing the beauty of the imperfection in the process of product development helps me to value the products that I can hold in my hands, and value the people behind each harvest of the fibers.”
Anna Le
“It was such an honor for me to be able to work with such exquisite fibers and experiment with various constructions through trial and error Although I’ve been stressed and frustrated at times, I’m proud of the result and am excited to share my findings with others I’m super appreciative of all the hard work my team has done these past few months.”
Austin Che
“Exploring the distinct properties of abaca, piña, and mohair fibers has been a fascinating experience There were moments of frustration when things didn't go as planned, but the satisfaction of creating beautiful, durable fabrics was immensely rewarding I'm eager to showcase the innovative fabric blends we ' ve developed I am so thankful for the dedication and hard work of my team throughout these intense months of research and development Their efforts have been crucial to our success ”
Burak Yilmaz
“Our brand, Cere, highlights its provenance, nature, and uniqueness inherent to the finest fibers on earth: South African Mohair, Jacob wool, Pina, and Abaca Following this, our distribution strategy, product development, and word building are signatures underscored by three pillars: storytelling, handcrafting, and collaboration ” Colette Ward
“As we bring our projects to life, we aim to conserve natural resources and offer innovative designs Each of our products is crafted with handpicked materials and meticulous craftsmanship Although there are times when the process is challenging, the extraordinary effort of my team and the obstacles we overcome together remind me of the value of our results I am excited to share our final products with you and to everyone who has joined me on this journey. Our content, supported by photos and visuals, will make you a part of this unique experience too ”
Selin Ersayin
Build a Farm to Fabric Brand: Exploring Sustainable Fibers and Textile Creation
Instructor: Lorenza Wong
Fashion Institute of Technology
Course Description
The TT476 Farm to Fabric course is a unique opportunity for students to learn about the sustainable and ethical production of Mohair, Abaca, Piña, and Jacob Wool fibers and to develop a brand focusing on these fibers. Through engaging lectures, hands-on activities, and collaborative projects, students will gain comprehensive knowledge of these natural fibers, their sustainable applications, and the branding process.
Students will learn about the Farm to Fabric process from fiber to finished product, including the importance of responsible material sourcing, regenerative agriculture, and the connection between the natural environment and the hands that craft the materials. They will also learn about the social and environmental impacts of the textile industry and the importance of supporting and valuing each stakeholder.
Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with farmers, spinners, and artisans to create fashion, accessories, homeware, or art pieces using these sustainable fibers. They will also develop a brand identity and marketing strategy for their sustainable brand. In addition, students will have the opportunity to network with industry professionals and build relationships with suppliers.
The course will feature guest speakers, industry experts, and brand collaborations, providing students with insights and real-world perspectives. Students will also have the opportunity to create a business plan for their sustainable fashion or homeware brand. The course aims to foster a greater connection and appreciation for the various hands involved in the material's creation. Students will understand the Farm-to-Fabric process and become influential catalysts for positive change in the textile industry.
Upon completion of the course, students will have the knowledge and skills necessary to build a successful brand focusing on sustainable and ethical production of Mohair, Abaca, and Piña fibers.
● Understand the principles of sustainable and ethical fiber production and textile creation.
● Apply their knowledge of Mohair, Abaca, Piña, and Jacob wool fibers to create sustainable and innovative fashion, accessories, homeware, or art pieces.
● Explore the principles of regenerative agriculture and its role in sustainable textiles
● Collaborate effectively with stakeholders across the Farm to Fabric process
● Apply sustainable design principles to create innovative products
● Present projects professionally, showcasing sustainability knowledge
● Build industry connections for future career opportunities
● Empower students as agents of change in the textile industry
● Develop a brand identity and marketing strategy for their sustainable fashion or homeware brand.
● Network with industry professionals and build relationships with suppliers.
● Create a business plan for their sustainable fashion or homeware brand.
1. Fashion Product: Students will work together to design and create a fashion item that highlights the unique qualities of these fibers. This could include garments such as sweaters, coats, or dresses, where the fibers' luxurious texture and thermal regulation properties can be showcased. Students will explore innovative designs, consider functionality and aesthetics, and incorporate sustainable practices in the production process.
2. Accessories/Homeware/Art Product: In this aspect of the project, students will collaborate to design and produce an accessory, homeware item, or artwork that incorporates these fibers. Possibilities include scarves, blankets, pillows, rugs, wall hangings, or sculptures. Students will explore various techniques such as weaving, knitting, felting, or mixed media, combining these fibers with other sustainable materials to create visually compelling and functional pieces.
Throughout the collaborative project, students will engage in ideation sessions, design critiques, material sourcing, and prototyping. They will also consider the marketability, sustainability, and storytelling aspects of their products, aiming to create pieces that evoke a deeper connection to the natural environment and the hands involved in the material's creation.
By working together, students will have the opportunity to harness their diverse skills and perspectives, fostering creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. The
collaborative project will culminate in a presentation where students showcase their final products, explaining the design process, sustainable practices employed, and the inspiration behind their creations.
Through this hands-on experience, students will not only gain practical skills in product development but also develop a deeper understanding of the role of collaboration, creativity, and sustainable design in the textile industry. They will leave the course with a tangible outcome that represents their commitment to responsible sourcing, regenerative agriculture, and the creation of beautiful, meaningful, and sustainable products.
Course Schedule (by class):
***Guest Speakers are subject to change
Week 1: Introduction and class overview (Jan 30 and Feb 1)
● Explore the concept of regenerative fashion and the importance of natural fibers and localism
● Examine the global fashion supply chain highlighting the value of sustainable supply chains and their role in creating and reflecting values
Week 2: Farm to Fabric (Feb 6 and Feb 8)
● Overview of the farm-to-fabric concept and its significance in a sustainable fashion
● Introducing Mohair. Abaca, Piña and Jacob Wool as a sustainable fiber and understand its properties and characteristic
● Introduce Frances Van Hasselt of Frances VH our supply chain partner in this course
● Material selection to be determined
● Guest speakers: Frances Van Hasselt and Farmers Gay and Jordi Van Hasselt, Sue Dean (environment), Rolly Kroon (speak about regenerative farming), Donna Lecaroz, Carlo Eliserio, Gonzalo Pertile (TBD)
Week: 3: Brand Vision and Mission (Feb 13 and Feb 15)
● Developing a brand vision and mission statement for the fabric line
● Exploring responsible and sustainable brand values and purpose
● Storytelling through Fabric
● Guest speakers: Frances Van Hasselt, Charl Edward, Nwabisa Mayema, Prasan Kumar (Tuesday), Cecilia Tkaczyk, Christina Lee (Thursday)
Week 4: Exploring Artistic Inspiration/Creation (Feb 20 and Feb 22)
● The role of artistic inspiration in the creation of a fabric line
● Techniques for finding inspiration and documenting inspiration from various sources include the value of craft
● Communication /engagement for fabric development with supply chain partner
● Fitting with garment manufacturer***
● Guest speakers: Frances Van Hasselt, Leandi Mulder, Spinner/Knitter (Masaki), Carlo Eliserio, Patis and Nina Tesoro
Week: 5: Understanding Timing and Seasonality (Feb 27 and Feb 29)
● Importance of timing in the fashion industry
● Overview of the Collection and the Impact on fabric production
● Developing a timeline for the fabric line project
● Fittings with garment manufacturer***
● Guest Speakers: Processors, Dana Davies, Michelle Gabriel
Week 6: Group Check-in/Pre-Production Process (Mar 5 and Mar 7)
● Pattern Development
● Making the Prototype or Sample Product
● Creation of tech packs as necessary
● Present to each group where you are and your story
● Create “looks” for the photo shoot and images/write-up for the catalog and do Q+A
● Guest Speakers: Prasan Kumar (Tuesday)
Week 7: Manufacturing Decisions and Costing (Mar 12 and Mar 14)
● Understanding manufacturing processes and their impact on fabric quality
● Making informed decisions about manufacturing techniques
● Introduction to Costing and Budgeting Considerations
● Finalize the product and approach selected supply chain for production
● Guest Speaker: Costing person and Branding/curating
Week 8: Marketing Research (Mar 19 and Mar 21)
● Blue Ocean Marketing
● How will you present your brand: Social Media Presence, Website, Sales, and Distribution
● Explore different marketing and promotion channels for the brand
● Starting a new business and what that entails
● Guest Speaker: Nwabisa Mayema, Charl Edwards, Christina Lee (Thursday)
Week 9: Policy, Transparency & Traceability, Textile Performance & Labeling (Apr 2 and 4)
● The importance of transparency in the supply chain and its impact on consumers
● Policies and strategies for incorporating transparency into your brand
● Testing to assess the durability and quality of your product at the Testing Lab
● Guest speakers: Lindsey Humphreys, Textile Exchange, Labeling expert
Week 10: New Business Models in Fashion (Apr 9 and Apr 11)
● Exploring innovative business models in the fashion industry
● New circular-economy business model
● Localization
● Repair, Upcycling
● Guest Speakers: TBC
Week 11: Finalize Marketing Plan (Apr 16 and Apr 18)
● Creating brand identity, including logo, colors, and visual elements
● Developing branding strategies for the product
● Guest Speaker: Branding expert
Week 12: Collaborative Group Work (or another topic - Storytelling through Fabric) (Apr 23 and Apr 25)
● Progress check and group discussions
● Brainstorming and refining ideas for the brand
● Group activities to foster collaboration and creativity
● Guest Speaker: TBC
Week 13: Presentation Preparation (Apr 30 and May 2)
● Preparing a compelling presentation for the final project
● Crafting a persuasive narrative around the fabric line and brand
● Rehearsing and refining presentation skills
● Catalog of the show
● Guest Speaker: Nwabisa Mayema + curator + stylist
Week 14: Final Presentation (May 7 and May 9) *May 9 for both sections
● Group presentations of the fabric line and brand vision
● The peer feedback and constructive critique
● Celebration and Reflection on the Fabric Line Project
Week 15: Reflection and Future Directions (May 14 and May 16)
● Reflecting on the learnings and experiences throughout the course
● Identifying opportunities for future development of the fabric line or brand
● Closing remarks and next steps for students in their fashion journeys
TT476 Suggested Readings
Books:
1/ Burgess, R., White, C. (2019) Fibershed: Growing a Movement of Farmers, Fashion Activists, and Makers for a New Textile Economy. Vermont: Chelsea Green Publishing.
2/ Burns, L.D., Mullet, K.K. (2020) The Business of Fashion - Designing, Manufacturing, and Marketing, 6th Edition. New York: Fairchild Books.
3/ Burns, L.D., Carver, J. (2022) Stories of Fashion, Textiles, and Place - Evolving Sustainable Supply Chains. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc.
4/ Carvill, M., Butler, G., Evans, G. (2021) Sustainable Marketing - How to Drive Profits with Purpose. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc.
5/ de Vos, B. (2018) Out of Fashion | The New Fashion. Netherlands - Independent Publication.
6/ Madrid, R. M. (2023) Pina Futures - Weaving Memories and Innovations. Philippines: Habi: The Philippine Textile Council and the Far Eastern University.
7/ Shelton, M. (1995) Angora Goat and Mohair Production. Texas: Anchor Publishing Company.
8/ Thomas, D. (2007) Deluxe - How Luxury Lost Its Luster. New York: Penguin Group.
9/ Worth, R. (2023). The Hidden Life of Clothing of Clothing - Historical Perspectives on Fashion and Sustainability. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc.
10/ Villafuerte-Abonal, L. (2006) Abaca Philippines. Philippines: Apples of Gold Publishing.
Periodicals/Articles
1/ https://vogue ph/fashion/connecting-threads-how-to-preserve-craft-will-survive-forfuture-generations/
2/ https://vogue ph/fashion/marian-pastor-roces-should-we-separate-craft-from-art/
3/ https://vogue ph/fashion/bayo-atelier-is-about-preserving-the-heritage-of-design/
4/ Business of Fashion
5/ Vogue Business
6/ https://textileexchange.org/app/uploads/2023/09/Biodiversity-Landscape-Analysis.pdf
7/ South Africa Promotes Mohair A.pdf
8/ Abaca Sustainability Manual
9/ Bloom Magazines
Websites
1/ https://www.mohair.co.za/
2/ https://textileexchange.org/responsible-mohair-standard/
Podcast/Webinar/Movies
1/ Anti-Fashion Manifesto
2/ Fashion Reimagined - the movie
3/ Sir Richard Branson on the Force for Good
4/ Regenerative Agriculture Outcome Framework