A forgotten recycling technique
Regenerated wool has long been a popular material for making sweaters, known for its durability and for allowing old garments to be reused for a new purpose. However, this technique has been lost over time, as fast and low-cost fashion has gained ground among consumers. Today, there are very few spinning mills in Catalonia and Spain that still work with regenerated wool. Thanks to them, IAIOS has managed to rescue the classic sweater, putting it back in the spotlight for the new generations.
Scraps from textile factories such as spinning mills, clothing factories, etc. are recovered and the pieces that contain wool or wool with acrylic are classified.
These scraps are separated by color and made into bales with the different shades.
The bales are carded to separate the fibres from the fabric. This produces a fluff that has a texture similar to that of new wool. The fluffs of different shades can be mixed together like on a painter's palette. This avoids the dyeing process.
Once the lint is ready, the spinning process can begin. The first step is to put the fibers in the form of a donut or wick and wind them around a cylinder.
By twisting the wick, the thread is obtained, which is much stronger and finer, and is rolled into 1kg cones.
With the cones of yarn you can now design and knit the pieces that will form part of the sweater. In general: front, back, sleeves and neck.
The different pieces are sewn together. When making adjustments to the pattern, the scraps that are generated go back to point 1.
The finished items are washed to eliminate bad odours. Size, brand and composition labels are also ironed and sewn on.
Jerseys made in local workshops
From spinning to weaving and tailoring, IAIOS jumpers are locally produced products, designed to support the local economy and ensure decent working conditions and transparency throughout the process. All production takes place between Lleida and Barcelona, which significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with long-distance transport by plane, boat or truck. By keeping each stage of manufacturing close to home, IAIOS not only contributes to the economic development of the area, but also minimises its carbon footprint. This commitment to local production is a sign of the brand's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, offering consumers garments that are not only quality and long-lasting, but also ethical and environmentally friendly.
Repairing sweaters
IAIOS garments are not only timeless in design, but are also designed to last and be repairable. As part of its commitment to sustainability and conscious consumption, IAIOS organises a repair campaign every summer for anyone who needs to repair their IAIOS jumper. This repair service is yet another example of the brand's approach to circular and responsible fashion, offering customers the chance to extend the life of their favourite garments. In addition, IAIOS takes care of the transport, returning the repaired and like-new jumper directly to the customer's home, thus ensuring that each piece continues to accompany its owner for many years to come. An initiative that reinforces IAIOS' commitment to fashion that respects the past, but is designed for the future.