What’s so specific about ... textile artists with Chemical Sensitivity?

“When one has chemical sensitivity, it becomes difficult to delve into the world of textile art.  Even if the person with chemical sensitivity switches to all natural fabrics and forgoes the world of polyester, the dyes and chemicals on fabrics can cause reactions in even the most minute amount. When you work with textiles, you are working very “hands-on”.  You are touching and iron fabrics and threads.

When threads and fabrics are heated they outgas these chemicals even more strongly.  Some with chemical sensitivity have coped to a degree by washing the textiles two and three times to remove excess dyes and chemicals.  Some people wear masks the entire time they are working with the fabrics and threads.   But there are always the hidden pitfalls that must be guarded against as companies are constantly finding new ways to “improve” fabrics, something that generally means they are even more toxic than before.” (Alexandra Henry, textile artist, Dallas)