Meet the Founder & Designer
My design process is rooted in the belief that good design solves a problem. The Green Goat Project was started as a challenge to transform something discarded into something beautiful.
Lisa Brzezniak
In 2018, the troubling environmental impact of garment production practices plus the mountains of textile waste covered by the media overwhelmed me. Then it inspired me… to apply my design skills to reduce landfill waste. Sewing and embroidery were my hobbies since childhood, and working with textiles was a natural extension of my design work. As a professional graphic designer working primarily in a digital environment, the added opportunity to work in a tactile medium felt like a new adventure.
After experimenting with different wools I became obsessed with the most challenging: cashmere. Its unpredictable and fussy when fulling, and not all cashmere responds well to being processed. But when it works, the softness and vibrancy is intoxicating. Never one to resist a creative challenge, I developed my own sewing process to create luxury accessories that just happen to be made from discarded clothing.
Every year I create a collection of hand-crafted, individually designed reclaimed cashmere scarves and winter accessories. I infuse each piece with the intention to elevate the spirit of whoever wears it — to provide stylish comfort even in the coldest conditions.
Sustainability
All of my material comes from existing garments. My recycling process converts dry-clean-only cashmere into more natural washable material, also reducing future use of toxic chemicals. I strive to eliminate waste by using as much of my material as possible — scraps are treasured sources of inspiration. Textile manufacturing is one of the most resource intensive industries on the planet, so I’m continually looking for ways to refine my process and reduce the energy and water needed.
Beautiful objects provide an antidote to our stressed nervous systems by comforting our body, mind, and spirit.
My Process: Fulling
Have you ever accidentally washed a wool sweater on warm in your washing machine and seen it shrink? That’s essentially a round of fulling.
The cashmere used in Green Goat Project scarves has been processed through multiple rounds of washing and drying in high heat, with additional friction and natural additives. This process is known as “fulling” and results in tightening the knit stitches of the original garments and shrinking their overall size. The fabric resulting in this process resembles felt, and doesn’t unravel. Its a unique material to work with and takes a good deal of time and experience to successfully sew. My investment in time and skill results in the unique scarves you see here.
Design Inspo
I’m inspired by an eclectic collection of sources. My approach and philosophy is strongly influenced by Natalie Chanin’s work with Alabama Chanin. From slow-fashion, to ethical sourcing practices, and handcrafting, I continue to learn from her evolution.
My design heroes include Emilio Pucci, Piero Fornasetti, Josef Albers, Alexander Girard, Ray Eames, Ruth Adler Schnee and Missoni. I continually study mid-century and arts and crafts color theory. And I find constant color inspiration from travel, antique markets, gardens, and clothing combos I see on the streets.
