Crispina ffrench is a true pioneer in the work that has defined her career, recycling used textile materials to create amazing new things. For 35 years she has bucked the fast clothing trend that rules within our consumer culture. However, the quality of most clothing in our consumer economy is cheap, not high-quality, and not healthy for us to wear (microfibers, etc.). Our interview explores the beginning of Crispina's journey 35 years ago, her complex relationship with her parents that pushed her to new experiences and new heights, her purchasing and renovating a former Catholic Church in Pittsfield, Massachusetts - changing her business model, and dealing with the challenges of working with City Hall. Today, she continues her passion by teaching others how to find their own niche in this industry she loves.  

From Crispina's website: 

I am an environmental optimist and textile alchemist upcycling discarded clothing and manufacturers’ waste since my college days in the 80’s.  It all started when working my way through art school, prompted by a need to make money around two other jobs and a full-time class schedule; oh and a deep love of making with my hands and reverence of our natural environment.

Ragamuffins got me through art school, setting me on my magical, life-long self-employment path.  I'm not gonna lie, the path has not always been smooth.  After realizing I was eligible for food stamps (while employing 40 people) I decided it was time to get serious about making money.

Building awareness of our textile waste problem without blame, anxiety, or panic; Promoting environmental support that nurtures us humans too; Inspiring others to wrap their heads around the effect of their consumption, but more, the effect of their positive action, are the things that rock my world most, oh and making money.

The John Krol Podcast is a production of OneEighty Media. Check out some of the work we do on John's blog, where you can take a deeper dive into past episodes.