Samatoa Textiles

Samatoa Lotus Textiles

Manufacture an innovative and ecological fabric from vegetal wastes to support the most vulnerable women in Cambodia. The basics of the Samatoa model rely on the belief that sustainable economic development is intrinsically linked to social equity and environmental protection. No source of polluting energy, no chemical or toxic substitute is used in the manufacturing process of lotus fabric with the greatest respect for nature. This fully integrated model allows Samatoa to ensure the quality from yarn to the finished product, without any intermediary. Experiment after experiment followed by research conducted in remote villages enabled Samatoa to bring back to life long forgotten skills. Thousands of years ago, the art of creating lotus fabric was known, but then lost. Lotus flowers have been harvested in Cambodia for generations, but only the flower. The stems – the valuable stems – were left in the water. What a waste! We now harvest the stems and weave our lotus fabric from them. Lotus fabric is innovative, the first natural microfiber, offering exceptional properties, it is naturally soft, light, special breathable, almost wrinkle free, and highly absorbent. It is also the most ecological fabric as there is no negative impact on environment. Spun and woven by hand, following the Cambodian traditional methods, it gives it a unique texture. Samatoa bridges the gap between the rich and the poor, allowing formation, emancipation, and international recognition of our producers, to offer a chance to everyone, to surpass their condition and elevate themselves "like the lotus flower growing above the muddy waters".