RŪPA Journal

Explore the RUPA Journal — your go-to source for stories on sustainable living, ethical fashion, and artisan craftsmanship. Dive into behind-the-scenes insights, conscious lifestyle tips, and the journey of naturally hand-dyed textiles. Stay inspired and connected with our community of makers and changemakers.

Hands holding chopped and ground plant bark during dye bath preparation

How Plant Dyes Are Made: From Root to Fabric

Plant dyes are colour derived from botanical sources — roots, bark, leaves, flowers, and minerals — applied to natural fibres through slow, time-based processes. Unlike synthetic dyes, plant dyes often carry tonal variation and develop character over time.

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Why Handmade Objects Belong in Everyday Life

Why Handmade Objects Belong in Everyday Life

Most handcrafted objects were never made to be displayed. They were made for a table, a kitchen, a hand. This piece makes the case for everyday handmade homewares — and why using them is exactly the point.

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Natural vs Synthetic Fabrics: What Actually Matters?

Natural vs Synthetic Fabrics: What Actually Matters?

Natural and synthetic fabrics behave differently in clothing. This guide explains how fibre choice affects breathability, comfort, durability, and garment longevity.

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The True Cost Per Wear: Why Repetition Is Sustainable

The True Cost Per Wear: Why Repetition Is Sustainable

Cost per wear shifts the focus from price to longevity. Learn how to calculate clothing value based on repetition, durability, and long-term wardrobe use.

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How Many Clothes Do You Really Need? A Real-Life Wardrobe Audit

How Many Clothes Do You Really Need? A Real-Life Wardrobe Audit

How many clothes do you actually need? This practical wardrobe audit helps you evaluate repetition, climate, lifestyle, and fibre comfort to build a wardrobe that works in real life.

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Why is ethical and sustainable fashion more expensive?

Why is ethical and sustainable fashion more expensive?

Composed by Adeline Chandra / Images courtesy of RŪPAHAUS unless state otherwise. You've read and heard about it, and now you are ready to start your ethical and sustainable wardrobe - but only to find that your wallet doesn't necessarily...

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In-Hāus Dialogue with Liz Hermann

In-Hāus Dialogue with Liz Hermann

Composed by Adeline Chandra / Images courtesy of Danii Forde & Elizabeth Hermann 'twas one cold winter evening; between the hustle and bustle of bumping in for Melbourne's hottest pop-up market - The Finders Keepers; we stumbled upon Liz' jewellery...

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How to Care for Naturally Dyed Fabrics

How to Care for Naturally Dyed Fabrics

Composed by Adeline Chandra / Images of RŪPAHAUS — Updated March 2026 Naturally dyed clothing needs a little more consideration than synthetic alternatives — but the care itself is simple.  Cold or hand wash, gentle detergent, air dry flat or...

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In-Hāus Dialogue with Kate Hall

In-Hāus Dialogue with Kate Hall

Composed by Adeline Chandra / Images courtesy of EthicallyKate Being an ethical / sustainable blogger is one thing, but being an ethical / sustainable living inspiration is a whole new ball game. We met Kate Hall from EthicallyKate for the very...

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