Environmental responsibility and "eco-friendly" products have become mainstream for today's consumer, as long as they also provide style and function!   With this in mind, Marcus introduces three new tote bag panels,  pre-printed on its popular OASIS CANVAS.

Designed by Laura Berringer, the pre-printed 1-yard panel includes a tote measuring 15" high x14" wide x 3" deep, plus an easy-to-sew bonus coupon pouch.  Color palettes include green/gold, brick red/amber, and blue/aqua - all designed to coordinate with the solid OASIS CANVAS fabrics.

Oasis Canvas is a classic linen-weave décor weight fabric made of certified 100% organic cotton, and colored with eco-friendly dyes. Solid colors in this group include conventional, earthy tones with a casual look and feeling that is gaining popularity in contemporary design circles.

Understanding "Eco-Friendly" Fabrics

Eco-friendly dyeing is a multi-faceted endeavor.  Generally, it ensures that the dyestuff is free of toxins; dyeing methods use minimal amounts of energy and resources; workers are provided with safe work areas and fair wages; and the process waste is disposed of in a safe manner.

Organic cotton is cultivated in fields free of pesticides or chemical fertilizers.  To earn the designation of "Certified Organic," the cotton plants must have been grown in a field that has been pesticide-and chemical free for three previous years.  The extra handling required to cultivate earth-friendly cotton makes it slightly more expensive, it is the preferred choice for those who are concerned about the environment, as well as consumers who suffer from allergies or chemical sensitivities.