MTK Textiles is very close to my heart! MTK knitted the original tencel for our Kickstarter bra and continues to be our Lenzing Tencel supplier. I have fond memories of early 2018, travelling to Melbourne to finally meet Michael and film some footage for the Kickstarter launch. I was gripped by all of the spinning machines! Through the first years of The Very Good Bra, Michael has been a trusted friend, as he is to many of us in the sustainable clothing industry in Australia, as well as to some of the most prestigious global brands.
I recently asked him a few questions about what he does and why, as part of our 'Meet the Maker' series, and here are his replies.
Q - When did you get started making fabrics and why?
A - I was originally a hand-knit designer which I loved. I loved playing with colour and textures 40 years ago now. Hand-knitting died literally and so I had to reinvent myself with fine gauge circular knits
Q - How long has the MTK factory been in operation?
A - Since 1929
Q - Have you noticed a customer shift towards natural, sustainable materials and how has that grown over the last 10 years?
A - Yes very much so. It started for us with some of the big iconic European houses who were the driver for us at least15 years ago
Q - How has the pandemic changed consumer demand do you think?
A - I’m not sure , certainly there is less demand for the more novel knits we make and more demand for comfortable clothing.
Q - Creating new products from scratch, is exhausting (I know this by experience!) what keeps you motivated?
A - The thrill of the chase. I’m always looking for new ways to recreate the beautiful classic fabrications
Q - What do you love most about what you do?
A - The design aspect and dealing with my customers.
Q - Despite a growing business, how do you wind down and relax?
A - Walking on the beach, reading, my garden and hanging out with my sons.
