Why months pass between order and shelf

Short answer: The yarn has to be spun, the fabric knitted and dyed, the garments sewn and the goods shipped. Each step takes weeks, and they cannot run at the same time.

Yarn and fabric first

The fabric has to be finished before anyone can cut into it. See bamboo clothing for women.

Dyeing needs a whole batch

Dyeing is done in large batches so the colour comes out consistent. See bamboo t-shirts for women.

Sewing takes time per item

Each garment is sewn individually. The quantity decides the duration. See bamboo underwear for women.

Transport is the last link

Sea freight takes weeks. Air freight is faster and more expensive. See bamboo socks for women.

Frequently asked questions

Why does reordering take so long?

Because yarn, fabric, dyeing, sewing and transport are separate steps that cannot run at the same time.

Why not just produce less and faster?

Because dyeing is done in large batches. A small batch costs more per item and is not necessarily faster.

What takes the longest?

Often the fabric and the dyeing, because they must be completely finished before sewing can begin at all.