Choosing materials for a fashion collection involves appearance, performance, availability and the evidence behind any environmental claim. This article revisits four options discussed by Marini Ricami 1986 in 2019: organic cotton, recycled PET yarn, polyamide described as biodegradable, and recycled PET sequins. The original material and certification claims are historical. For a current order, we check the exact fibre, supplier and documentation before using a claim on a finished product.

Material choices such as organic cotton and recycled fibres need product-specific verification.

1. Organic cotton and GOTS

Organic cotton yarn can be selected for an embroidery project where its texture and colour suit the design. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) sets requirements for certified organic textile products and their processing chain. A fibre being described as organic does not automatically make the embroidered end product GOTS-certified. The applicable label grade and the certification of each relevant stage must be checked against current records. GOTS publishes its standard and labelling rules.

The Italian original also mentions OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100. This is a separate label for textiles tested for harmful substances; it does not itself certify that cotton was organically grown. OEKO-TEX explains the scope of STANDARD 100.

2. Polyester yarn from recycled PET

Recovered PET, including post-consumer packaging, can be processed into polyester yarn for embroidery. Its suitability depends on yarn specification, colour, strength and processing. Recycled PET is not automatically equivalent to virgin PET in every application, nor can it be assumed to undergo unlimited recycling without changes or losses. The recycled percentage and source should be confirmed through the supplier’s records for the chosen yarn.

3. Polyamide with biodegradation claims

The 2019 article describes a nylon yarn marketed for improved anaerobic biodegradation. Such a property is specific to a material formulation and test conditions; it is not a general property of all nylon or proof that the yarn belongs in a household food-waste bin. ASTM D5511 measures biodegradation of plastics under defined high-solids anaerobic-digestion conditions. The ASTM description says the method is not intended to simulate every particular waste-treatment system. A claim about compostability, disposal or real-world degradation needs separate evidence and local waste guidance.

4. Sequins made with recycled PET

Sequins can also be made from recycled PET rather than virgin polymer. Their shape, finish and embroidery behaviour matter alongside material composition. The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) covers third-party verification of recycled content and chain of custody, with further social, environmental and chemical criteria. Certification and labelling depend on the product and its supply chain; a general supplier statement is not enough to certify every finished embroidered item. Textile Exchange describes the GRS requirements.

Sequin sample; recycled content and certification require records for the selected product.

For more on the material and design options, read our guide to recycled PET sequins and our article on embroidered bands and straps.

GRS reference graphic; not a certificate for a specific product.

Historical fashion context and a current project

The Italian article also pointed to the Green Carpet Fashion Awards as an example of the industry’s interest in sustainability. The video below is retained as historical context; it does not verify any of the product claims above.

If a collection calls for a particular fibre, recycled percentage or certification, we can review the available samples and the documents for that order. Contact Marini Ricami 1986 to discuss the design and material specification.