The Factory Next Door

24. The Selvedge Jeans

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Episode notes

More than three billion pairs of denim jeans are made every year. But not all jeans are made the same. Just 10% are produced using selvedge denim - a denim that takes more time to weave and is significantly longer lasting.

 

The UK may account for only a tiny percentage of global jean production, but we have some of the finest makers.

 

Number 24 on our list of the greatest things we make in Britain is The Selvedge Jeans.

 

On this week’s The Factory Next Door we visit one of our finest jeans makers - Blackhorse Lane Ateliers in east London. Founder Han Ates tells us why jeans are the new craft beer, the importance of connections, and gives thanks to those who dig old clothes out of disused mines.

 

We also chat about families, our planet’s future, and what it takes to change your direction of travel when you’re not happy with the path you have followed.

 

Hit the play button and let’s hang out. Afterwards, say hello on Instagram @thefactorynextdoor