THE SHOP
Sustainable fashion and a deep-rooted love for nature and the health of our planet go hand-in-hand. Passion for sustainability and everything green is why Founder, Owner, and Artist Kendra Russo decided to start Found & Foraged Fibers seven years ago. Russo’s products are made by eco-printing, which “transfers the pigment of leaves, flowers, bark, and berries into vibrant, long-lasting designs on natural fabrics.” This method embodies the epitome of slow fashion, with each piece carrying forth the magic that our earth supplies.
Photograph by Kendra Russo
THE ATMOSPHERE
Not only does Found & Foraged Fibers provide a unique opportunity for us to connect with our planet through clothing, but it also provides a creative, safe space with an emphasis on community and connection.
“Found and Foraged Fibers is about more than just textiles—it’s about building community, nurturing creativity, and rediscovering the value of making things by hand. Our work is rooted in the belief that clothing can be made differently—more slowly, more intentionally, and with greater care. By embracing natural dyes, local materials, and mindful design, we aim to inspire a more sustainable and meaningful relationship with what we wear,” says Russo.
Photograph by Kendra Russo
When entering and exiting Found & Foraged Fibers’ brick- and-mortar store in downtown Anacortes, Russo’s mission is to make sure that everyone doing so is feeling imaginative and alive to the wonders of Mother Nature.
“I want people to come in and leave feeling relaxed and inspired. For them to see just how incredible nature is and what it is capable of. That we can step back from chemical dyes and plastic clothing, and that having a more intentional approach to what we put on our bodies every day actually is healing to our skin and soul,” says Russo.
Photograph by Kendra Russo
THE PEOPLE
Russo studied horticulture in Seattle. At the beginning of 2019, she discovered botanical printing and moved to Florida to become a student of a textile artist. This started her deep passion for the art, and years later, Found & Foraged Fibers is thriving. Russo believes in keeping her business local and small-scale, while cultivating the materials needed for the dye in her own garden and through foraging.
“I’ve always had a strong relationship with plants in some way or another. I’ve farmed, landscaped, and made herbal medicine for over 20 years, so when I discovered eco-printing, it just clicked! I honestly feel as if this practice found me, and I’m so blessed to deepen my connection with the earth in this way,” says Russo.
Photograph by Kendra Russo
WHAT YOU’LL FIND
Flowy garments in shades and patterns reminiscent of green meadows, leaves against the sky, tree bark, and plants atop blue water are just some of the magnificent pieces that make up Russo’s collection. All of her clothes are handmade, botanically printed, and naturally dyed. Raw silk is used in their products to further prioritize sustainability, as raw silk uses less water than cotton while also being hypoallergenic, breathable, lightweight, and antibacterial. There are truly endless reasons why these clothes are more than worth checking out.
If you’re interested in creating some similar articles of clothing yourself, attending one or more of Found & Foraged Fibers’ workshop classes is a great way to spend your time and money! Anyone is welcome, as long as you’re ready to tap into your creativity. 619 Commercial Ave., Anacortes, foundandforagedfibers.com
Photograph by Kendra Russo
