Annotations

Annotation 1: Potential of fabric scraps and ethical fashion

Potentials of fabric scraps management for value creation among fashion designers in South West Nigeria

Authors: Oluwafeyikemi E. Bashorun, Idris O. Badiru, Mojisola F. Oyewole, Taibat T. Adebisi, Olufunmilayo O. Braide & Adenike O. Lawal

Bashorun, O. E., Badiru, I. O., Oyewole, M. F., Adebisi, T. T., Braide, O. O., & Lawal, A. O. (2025). Potentials of fabric scraps management for value creation among fashion designers in South West Nigeria. African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, 17(6), 823–833. https://doi.org/10.1080/20421338.2025.2540241

Keywords: Circular economy, ethical fashion, fabric scraps, upcycling, waste management

2. Summary (What is the source saying?)

Bashorun highlights the severity of the fashion industry's environmental damage and focuses on how fabric scraps are being recycled and reused in South West Nigeria. The study investigates the quantity of fabric scraps produced by fashion designers in South West Nigeria, and recommendations were made to improve the industry's circular economy.

3. Relevance (Why does it matter for my research?)

This source is relevant to my research as it highlights the potential of utilising waste and underused materials to create new value, reinforcing my focus on material experimentation. It also discusses the environmental harm caused by conventional textile dyeing, particularly water pollution, which strengthens my approach to eco dyeing. By demonstrating that natural dyes derived from waste materials can achieve comparable or even superior aesthetic outcomes, the article deepens my understanding of sustainable alternatives in fashion and supports the environmental and creative direction of my work.

4. Connection to Design Decisions (How will it influence my research project?)

This context directly influences my design decisions by reinforcing my commitment to slow design practices. Eco dyeing aligns with this approach, as it is a transparent and hands-on process that utilises waste materials while allowing careful control over colour outcomes through craftsmanship. The article’s reference to influential designers such as Patagonia and Eileen Fisher also gives me great models to draw inspiration from, particularly in how they embed sustainability into both process and brand values. Additionally, the emphasis on a circular economy encourages me to think beyond initial material use, considering the afterlife of my designs. This prompts me to explore strategies such as designing for disassembly and making environmentally conscious material choices, ultimately shaping a more holistic and responsible making practice.

5. Reflection (What does this make me think about?)

Reading this source shifted how I view my project by reinforcing the significant environmental impact of the textile industry. As I am working with soft materials, it highlighted the responsibility I have to design with this in mind, not just aesthetically but ethically. It also prompted me to question the direction of my material focus, making me consider whether I should prioritise waste materials over simply locally available ones. This reflection has opened up new possibilities in my approach, encouraging me to think more critically about where my materials come from and how my design decisions can contribute to more sustainable practices.