Why is the value of place so important? From a historical perspective, until the 1700s textile production was a hand process using the fibers available within a ① particular geographic region, for example, cotton, wool, silk, and flax. Trade among regions ② increased the availability of these fibers and associated textiles made from the fibers. The First Industrial Revolution and subsequent technological advancements in manufactured fibers ③ added to the fact that fibers and textiles were no longer “place-bound.” Fashion companies created and consumers could acquire textiles and products made from textiles with little or no connection to where, how, or by whom the products were made. This ④ countered a disconnect between consumers and the products they use on a daily basis, a loss of understanding and appreciation in the skills and resources necessary to create these products, and an associated disregard for the human and natural resources necessary for the products’ creation. Therefore, renewing a value on place ⑤ reconnects the company and the consumer with the people, geography, and culture of a particular location.

* textile: 직물