How it Works

The process of creating our final products is quite complex.

Here's a brief overview of what happens behind the scenes:

• We receive at least 100 bags of mixed types of textiles weekly at GIRO. First, Sue and her team select items directly to the ReStore. The remaining textiles are divided between those used for ReLove products and those that will be shredded and separated based on textile type.

• Identifying good fabrics for the meticulous process. We assess each fabric's quality, pattern, and type, ensuring that only the best materials are used. Once identified, these fabrics are distributed to our makers to begin the transformation process.

• With their skill and passion, our dedicated makers play a crucial role in transforming these fabrics into beautiful products. They select the perfect fabric for each item, making our products unique, valuable, and sustainable. This process, although time-consuming, is a testament to their dedication and craftsmanship's meticulous work.

• Each product needs to be tagged, sometimes stuffed, and prepared for sale. Then, we need to promote it, take pictures, create content, and share its story. The products are sold locally at GIRO, the Gabriola Island Recycling Center, the ReStore, and the Makerspace, as well as at various markets and local vendors. 

• To prepare for shredding, we start by sorting the fabric according to type with Sue and her team. Then, we remove all the hardware from each item. Next, Tony, our Shredder Operator, processes the fabric twice in the shredder and removes the dust to obtain a clean final product. We consider the fabric type to maintain quality, and then we proceed to package and label it. Like other ReLove Local products, we market it, take pictures, and promote it locally.