Question 1

What is WEGANOOL™?

Accepted Answer

WEGANOOL™ is a PETA award-winning natural 100% plant-based warm fabric, that offers a sustainable and ethical alternative to conventional wool and man-made textiles.

At the core of WEGANOOL™ fabric lies the remarkable Calotropis hollow cellulose fibers, which serve as its key component. These fibers, found in both the pod and stem of the Calotropis plant, possess insulating properties comparable to high-end wool fibers, such as alpaca and angora. Notably, the hollow structure of these fibers contributes to their excellent thermal performance, making them a perfect alternative for warm wool fibers.

Throughout the entire manufacturing process, from fiber extraction to finishing, WEGANOOL™ is produced without the use of any harmful chemicals, implementing the highest environmentally-conscious practices.

Question 2

What the name WEGANOOL™ represents?

Accepted Answer

"WEGANOOL™" derives its name from the harmonious fusion of two significant words: "vegan" and "nool." In the Tamil language, "nool" carries a dual meaning, signifying both "book" and "thread." This name beautifully encompasses WEGANOOL™'s purpose as a comprehensive guidebook, leading the way to the pinnacle of sustainability in textile production, achieved through the exclusive utilisation of 100% natural threads.

By blending these elements, WEGANOOL™ embodies its core values of being plant-based, cruelty-free, and environmentally friendly, thus presenting an ethical and compelling alternative to conventional warmth-retaining fabrics. This unique fabric serves as a testament to our commitment to a sustainable future, where every thread weaves together a story of conscious choices and responsible practices.

Question 3

What is the difference between wool, cotton and WEGANOOL™ ?"

Accepted Answer

WEGANOOL™ stands out among other natural fabrics with its lightweight, soft, and temperature-regulating properties. This unique characteristic is attributed to the fine warmth-generating hollow cellulose structure of Calotropis fibers, measuring only 10-20 microns in diameter. Comparatively, Merino wool fibers are 21-24 microns in diameter, and cashmere averages 14-15 microns.

Unlike wool, which has scales that may cause skin irritation and allergies, Calotropis fibers are smooth and soft, making WEGANOOL™ gentle and non-irritating to the skin. Additionally, WEGANOOL™ exhibits antimicrobial properties.

Moreover, WEGANOOL™ offers a sustainable alternative to wool and cashmere, as it is sourced from Calotropis plants that help revive barren lands and promote reforestation, mitigating deforestation and climate change.

The combination of Calotropis and cotton cellulose fibers ensures breathability and easy maintenance. Unlike cotton fibers with twists on their surface, Calotropis fibers remain straight and smooth.

The adaptability of Calotropis fibers, with an average length of 3.5 cm for pod fibers and 4 cm for stem fibers, allows seamless integration into existing cotton yarn manufacturing processes. This versatility enhances the feasibility of incorporating Calotropis fibers into a wide array of textile applications.

The manufacturing process of WEGANOOL is designed to be waste-free, which sets it apart from traditional textiles that often generate effluent and sludge as byproducts.

WEGANOOL™ proves to be highly versatile, suitable for an array of end products, ranging from scarves and shirts to jackets and sweaters, and beyond. However, due to the absence of twists or scales in Calotropis fibers, the fabric may be prone to pilling, similar to to cashmere or angora fibers. To maintain the fabric's integrity, it is essential to follow the care instructions (https://www.faborg.in/weganool-care-instructions)diligently.

Question 4

How does the toxicity of the Calotropis plant affect the fabric?

Accepted Answer

Calotropis holds a significant place in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurvedic Panchakarma, where it is utilized to address various ailments. Managed appropriately, the plant's toxicity brings medicinal benefits.
As a result, Calotropis fibers exhibit remarkable anti-microbial properties. Numerous research papers highlight the plant's antibacterial effects on E. coli, pneumonia, and more. Test done on WEGANOOL fabric on Staph bacteria revealed positive results in inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus (staph) bacteria, known for causing skin infections and presenting clinical challenges globally.

In Tamil Nadu, the tradition of using a half-belt made of Calotropis stem fiber for newborns is deeply rooted. Half-belts made from Calotropis are contributing to the prevention of urinary tract infections in babies. Typically half-belts are made by newborn grandfathers, this process is beautifully captured in a short video available HERE.(https://www.instagram.com/reel/CdNVaTGlGHx/?fbclid=IwAR24pwk_amZKA0DAjBQ8oWUkyH5Wh_dSThQ_a-za6ka71yKHMIzosYWIjVM)

Rest assured, our fiber extraction process meticulously removes the toxic sap, repurposing it into pest-repellent AARKA. Additionally, the toxicity in the sap naturally degrades as the Calotropis extract dries. Dry Calotropis leaves even find utility as animal fodder in deserted regions.

Question 5

What are the important characters of WEGANOOL™ fabrics?

Accepted Answer

The WEGANOOL™ fabric is distinguished by its antimicrobial properties and offers a unique texture and sensation, thanks to the remarkable characteristics of Calotropis' hollow cellulose fibers, which provide exceptional warmth, insulation, and antimicrobial benefits. The inclusion of cotton further ensures breathability and effective moisture-wicking, resulting in a well-balanced and comfortable fabric.

With its softness and relatively lightweight nature, wearing the fabric is a delightful experience. in its undyed form, WEGANOOL™ a beautiful natural ecru color. To enhance its softness even further, the woven and knitted fabrics undergo a meticulous brushing process, adding to the overall luxurious feel.

Being sourced from plant-based Calotropis fibers, WEGANOOL™ stands as a 100% biodegradable fabric, naturally breaking down over time.

Question 6

What can be made out of WEGANOOL™ fabrics?

Accepted Answer

The fabric's softness and relatively lightweight nature make it a delight to wear, and it looks beautiful even in undyed state. WEGANOOL™ proves to be highly versatile, catering to a wide range of end products, from scarves and shirts to jackets and sweaters, and more.

To enhance its softness further, the woven and knitted fabrics undergo a brushing process, adding to the luxurious feel. However, it is important to note that due to the absence of twists or scales in Calotropis fibers, the fabric may be susceptible to pilling, similar to cashmere or angora fibers. To preserve the fabric's integrity, it is crucial to adhere to the care instructions diligently.

Question 7

What fabric constructions are available?

Accepted Answer

Currently, woven, jersey, and fleece WEGANOOL™ fabrics are available, with ongoing research and development efforts aiming to refine and expand the fabric options further.

Question 8

Where can I buy WEGANOOL™ and how much it costs?

Accepted Answer

As for the pricing, it depends on the specific construction of the fabric and the quantity you require. If you are interested in the availability and pricing of our products, please don't hesitate to contact us through the website contact form or via email at info@faborg.in.(mailto:info@faborg.in)

Before we proceed, we would like to get to know you better. Please share a brief introduction about yourself, and if you have any specific WEGANOOL™ end-products in mind, we would love to hear your ideas.

On a side note, we want to emphasize that WEGANOOL™ fabric is not an "off-the-shelf" product. Instead, it is meticulously crafted from scratch, starting from the fiber level. Both woven and knit fabrics require entirely different yarns, and as an ongoing research project, we continuously strive for improvement in each spinning and fabric development process.

Unlike mainstream fabrics like cotton, the production of WEGANOOL™ demands suppliers with technical expertise. Fortunately, we have competent supply partners who excel in handling this unique fabric. However, we kindly request our clients to keep an open mind regarding certain aspects, such as the final GSM (grams per square meter) and width of the fabric, as slight variations may occur.

Our ultimate goal is to establish long-term collaborations with clients who share our passion for re-emerging sustainable fabrics. It requires genuine interest, commitment, and a willingness to understand the fabric's social, environmental, and economic impact. In return, we promise transparency throughout the production process and offer insights into other potential developments that align with our shared values.

Question 9

Why WEGANOOL™ is dyed only with natural dyes?

Accepted Answer

At the heart of WEGANOOL™'s dedication to sustainability lies its steadfast reliance on natural dyeing techniques. By exclusively employing natural dyes, the fabric adheres to rigorous ecological standards, embodying its environmentally conscious ethos. Impressively, the residue produced during the fiber extraction and natural dyeing processes serves a purposeful second life as valuable resources for farming sector. These remnants are ingeniously repurposed into beneficial substances like manure and an affordable insect repellent for farmers, aptly named "AARKA."

Through this innovative approach, WEGANOOL™ continues to exemplify its commitment to harmonious and responsible practices, creating a fabric that not only enhances our lives but also nurtures the environment and communities around us.

Question 10

I am interested in the swatch of WEGANOOL™. How do I proceed?

Accepted Answer

Please reach out to info@faborg.in with a brief introduction about yourself and your brand.

Question 11

Can WEGANOOL™ be blended with other fibres.

Accepted Answer

In the future, WEGANOOL™ fibers may be blended with other naturally processed plant-based fibres.

However, FABORG remains firmly committed to its ethical principles and does not support blending natural fibres with polyester or regenerated cellulose (viscous fibres ) such as bamboo, TENCEL, etc.. These materials often require intensive chemical processing, pose risks to traditional farming livelihoods, and can mislead consumers about their true sustainability. Additionally, even a 1% addition of elastane makes a fabric non-recyclable.

FABORG upholds genuine sustainability, transparency, and the responsible use of natural resources, continuously striving to set new standards for eco-friendly practices in the textile industry.

Question 12

Can I purchase WEGANOOL™ yarn?

Accepted Answer

Currently, our primary focus and expertise lie in the production of WEGANOOL™ fabrics. We offer a small range of sustainable and eco-friendly fabric options - wovens and knits, with a commitment to preserving their integrity throughout the entire process, including post-knitting/weaving steps like bio-scouring and natural dyeing. 
While we do not presently offer WEGANOOL yarn, we will certainly consider the possibility of providing yarn in later stages as we continue to expand our offerings.

Question 13

What would be a care instruction for naturally dyed WEGANOOL™ fabric?

Accepted Answer

To ensure the lasting beauty of WEGANOOL fabrics, specific care measures are essential when dealing with their natural dyes:
1. Hand washing is recommended for optimal results, but if machine washing is necessary, use a gentle, short cycle at room temperature.
2. Separate colors during the initial wash to prevent color bleeding.
3. Preserve the fabric's surface by washing clothes inside out, minimizing friction.
4. Use pH-neutral detergents, natural soaps, or delicate wash soaps like Amway SA8, SPAR pH-neutral liquid detergent, Genteel, Ezee, or any wool wash soap to maintain color vibrancy.
5. For stains, soak the fabric in cool water with pH-neutral soap before washing.
6. Avoid bleach, as it may damage the fabric and cause color fading.
7. Limit washing to when necessary to prevent excessive wear and maintain color richness.
8. If tumble drying is required, opt for low temperatures.
9. Dry the fabric in the shade, as natural colors are sensitive to light.
10. When wearing naturally dyed garments, avoid contact with lemon or citrus fruits, as citric juice may act as a natural bleach and affect the fabric's color.

By adhering to these careful care instructions, owners of WEGANOOL garments can effectively maintain their impeccable condition, ensuring the fabric's softness and vibrant colors remain intact for an extended period.

Question 14

What is the highest blend available

Accepted Answer

30%

Question 15

What is the minimum order quantity?

Accepted Answer

To add a new question go to app settings and press "Manage Questions" button.

Question 16

Can I insert pictures in my FAQ?

Accepted Answer

Yes! To add a picture follow these simple steps:
1. Enter App Settings
2. Click the "Manage Questions" button
3. Click on the question you would like to attach a picture to
4. When editing your answer, click on the picture icon and then add an image from your library

Question 17

Can I insert a video in my FAQ?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Users can add video from YouTube or Vimeo with ease:
1. Enter App Settings
2. Click the "Manage Questions" button
3. Click on the question you would like to attach a video to
4. When editing your answer, click on the video icon and then paste the YouTube or Vimeo video URL
5. That's it! A thumbnail of your video will appear in answer text box

Question 18

How do I edit or remove the "FAQ title"?"

Accepted Answer

The FAQ title can be adjusted in the settings tab of the App Settings. You can also remove the title by unchecking its checkbox in the settings tab.

Question 19

What type of fibers and fabrics do you dye?

Accepted Answer

We mainly dye WEGANOOL™ fibers and fabrics. We can also dye organic unbleached cotton.

Question 20

Are all the colors natural?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All of them are from natural sources like barks, seeds, roots, food waste, etc.

Question 21

Are there any heavy metals in your dyes?

Accepted Answer

Harmful metals or chemicals are not allowed in our process. In fact, all the water used for dyeing goes for organic farming purposes through ARKA.

Question 22

What testing methods can be done to prove natural dyes?

Accepted Answer

There are testing standards available for 6 raw materials:
Rhubarb- IS 17214:2019
Catechu-IS 17211:2019
Lac dye- IS 17212:2019
Pomegranate: IS 17213: 2019
Natural indigo- IS 17084:2019
Madder- IS 17085:2019
 
Authentification of natural dyes can be done according to the BIS standard.

Question 23

How can I see the difference between chemical and natural dyes?

Accepted Answer

Natural dyes have unique pigments that are easily recognized by the experienced eye. But there is a lemon test that anyone can run. Most of the colors made from natural ingredients (indigo being an exception) will bleach when lemon juice is applied on it.

Question 24

Do you have any certificates?

Accepted Answer

Curently GOTS or any other certification are not relevant to natural dyes.

Question 25

Can you match natural dyes with Pantone colors?

Accepted Answer

No. Natural dyes have various types of color components in a single raw material, therefore the dye will look unique.

Question 26

Will there be any color change from sampling to bulk?

Accepted Answer

Sampling is done by the bucket-dyeing technique and production in machines. So yes, there will be a mild color change from sampling to bulk.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the lead time is long from sampling to order placement, sometimes even 6 months. So seasonal changes will result in a change of color in the natural sources.
Natural dyestuff grown in different geographical locations will also result in small color changes.

Question 27

Will there be a lot to lot variation?

Accepted Answer

Very minor variations can be expected. In melange yarn, we can provide yarn without any variation for the full order qty of yarn.

Question 28

Do you do prints?

Accepted Answer

No chemical or certified prints are allowed on WEGANOOL™. We collaborate with artisans who are a reliable source for block printing.

Question 29

Do you sell dyes?

Accepted Answer

No, we don't. We only provide the dyeing service.

Question 30

What is the colour fastness of your dyes?

Accepted Answer

Color fastness to washing is 3-4, some colors 4-5, based on our recommended testing methods. Testing needs to be done with pH-neutral soap.

Question 31

What is the instructions for wash care?

Accepted Answer

Please check out our care instuctions.

Question 32

What is your MOQ?

Accepted Answer

Bulk order for melange dyed yarn starts from 150 kg/color. Garment and fabric dye from 25 kg/color.

Question 33

Can you make RFD fabrics for us?

Accepted Answer

Bleached fabric dye intake is poorer than bio-scoured fabrics. We can pre-treat your fabric with our organic scouring agent.

Question 34

Can you do bleaching for us?

Accepted Answer

Bio-scouring is the most sustainable and efficient replacement for bleaching. This also helps in absorbing the natural dye pigments better.
 
Most commonly used hydrogen peroxide, considered an eco-friendly option, is obtained unethically and we do not support it.

Question 35

Can fabric be softened after dyeing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can apply organic softener to improve the hand feel of the fabric/garment.

Question 36

What is the difference between synthetic dyes and natural dyes?

Accepted Answer

Synthetic dyes are manmade and have created more than enough damage to our planet. The natural dyes are all 100% bio-degradable in nature. They are safe for the environment and people working with it.

Question 37

Do you have a shadecard?

Accepted Answer

You can purchase swatch set from the SHOP or download free PDF on NATURAL DYES page.

Question 38

What is ARKA?

Accepted Answer

ARKA is a natural replacement for pesticides and fertilizers. It's a concentrated extract of calotropis and other herbs that needs to be diluted with water before use. This liquid does not kill any insects and is completely safe for pollinating bees, pest-eating predators, and our beloved pets. One stop solution, that makes organic farming much easier!

Question 39

Isn't calotropis poisonous?

Accepted Answer

Calotropis has over 100 different documented uses in Ayurveda. Under the guidance of an ayurvedic doctor, calotropis can be used for fever, decreasing sugar, spleen, and liver disorders, all the way up to treating heavy metal poisoning. 
 
Poison and toxic are two very different concepts. Poison can kill but toxicity in small quantities can be medicinal.
 
It's as toxic as water if consumed in the wrong quantities.

Question 40

Is ARKA safe to spray on vegetables and fruits right before consuming?

Accepted Answer

ARKA is not toxic and washing the produce like normal is more than enough.

Question 41

Is ARKA safe to use for animals?

Accepted Answer

The alkaloids which are present in ARKA are biodegradable in nature and are not toxic or harmful for pets. In deserted areas, dried calotropis leaves are used as fooder for goats.
 
ARKA has anti-microbial properties so isn't even dangerous for the people who spray or come in contact with it. No problem for any creature more than a centimeter.
 
In fact, it's beneficial for the animal if it licks something with ARKA as it will deworm them.

Question 42

Does ARKA change the taste of the fruit/vegetable?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. That's the amazing part - once you spray ARKA and it gets exposed to the sun the toxins that are repelling the insects start to biodegrade. It only biodegrades in the heat and sunlight. Once you wash the vegetable you can use it directly. There won't be any difference in the taste.

Question 43

Which insects does ARKA repel?

Accepted Answer

Wherever sprayed, ARKA repels all insects that are feeding off the plants as well as mosquitoes. Once the alkaloids reach the roots, ARKA even repels root borers. 
 
This repellant doesn't repel just one specific insect but acts as a holistic protective shield for the plants.

Question 44

Are there any pests it doesn't work on?

Accepted Answer

ARKA doesn't repel cockroaches and rats.

Question 45

How to apply ARKA?

Accepted Answer

For most of the crops except some like coconuts and cashew groves the dilution is very less- 1:60, ARKA to water. Other natural methods like cow urine and ash work well with ARKA too.
 
You can watch this video (https://youtu.be/EJyfF5Ef_Dg)for more information on application.

Question 46

What is the dilution ratio?

Accepted Answer

The dilution varies from 1:60 to 1:200 depending on the crop, spraying equipment and the pest issues. So please reach out to us on +91 9790 7777 40 to know the specifics.

Question 47

How often to apply ARKA?

Accepted Answer

For vegetable crops, you have to apply every week. For seasonal crops like cashew, mango, and coconuts it's mostly during the fruiting season.
 
The frequency of all depends on the problems present on the farm. For example, if you have stem borers, root borers, and root fungal issues it's good to do soil drenching.

Question 48

Why isn't ARKA working on my plant?

Accepted Answer

Results can't be seen after one or two sprays because nature never works like that. The point is to trick the insects into thinking the farm isn't fit for food or breeding and this requires regular spraying. This way a long-term solution against any insects is achieved.
 
ARKA can repel insects and boost immunity and growth but the nutrients present in the land are very crucial. If the land has been sprayed with chemicals for 30 years then everything helpful is eradicated. There is nothing called 99% organic, the minute a bit of pesticide is sprayed, the soil health is compromised. The same thing applies to fungicides as they kill mycelium network. If the land doesn't have mycelium there is no nitrogen-fixing happening. If your land is not getting nitrogen then your trees won't get a yield. Most people don't know this.
 
Check out this video (https://youtu.be/GcbJN1A1_Xo)about mycellium to know more.

Question 49

My plants are dying but I can't see any insects outside! What can be the problem?

Accepted Answer

If your soil is healthy it's probably root fungal issues or nematodes which are root borers. They basically suck on the roots to tap into the sugar stores the plant is making, completely destroying the root. Soil drenching should solve the problem easily. Please read the FAQ on root drenching below.

Question 50

My plants are covered with white things. What shall I do?

Accepted Answer

If it's a white bug then there are 2 possibilities.
 
Firstly it could be white mealybugs- Spray ARKA once a week will keep them away. If they are present on your farm it's very crucial to make sure the mealybugs get wet when spraying.
 
Secondly, there are whitefly vectors that spread a virus just like how dengue is spread by mosquitoes. They jump from leaf to leaf, staying under a leaf, contaminating from there and the microbes grow. Soon the top of that leaf will become black, the whole photosynthesis will be cut off and the production from that leaf stops.
 
In both cases the problem can be eliminated with 3 continuous sprays. With regular spraying they will not come back. This way breeding on the farm is stopped.

Question 51

Why do we talk about cow urine to farmers?

Question 52

What is the average consumption of ARKA per acre? What about big trees?

Question 53

How does soil drenching work?

Question 54

Why is it recommended to spray ARKA during the rainy times?

Question 55

Are there any side-effects?

Question 56

Mosquitoes are still present even after spraying ARKA.

Question 57

How to apply ARKA to get rid of mosquitoes?

Question 58

I spray ARKA but now during the monsoon what should I do?

Question 59

Where can I buy ARKA?

Question 60

Why is ARKA so cheap?

Question 61

Is ARKA available nationwide in India?

Question 62

I would like to become a distributor!

Question 63

Why do only farmers get the 20 liter package?

Question 64

I am a farmer but can I first try with 1 liter instead of the 20 liter package?

வணக்கம், உங்களை இங்கு பார்ப்பதில் மகிழ்ச்சி!

எனவே நீங்கள் ARKA பற்றி மேலும் அறிய விரும்புகிறீர்களா?

ARKA அடிக்கடி கேட்கப்படும் கேள்விகள்