THE METAPHORS SYSTEM

We evaluate every piece across nine factors to understand its material integrity, craft value, and environmental responsibility.
 
The M.E.T.A.P.H.O.R.S Framework

M: Material| Fiber origin and level of processing
E: Elements | Primary fabric component used
T: Trims | Buttons, fastenings, or surface additions
A: Assembly | Construction and sewing method
P: Packaging | Shipping and protective materials
H: Handling | Care requirements & longevity
O: Origin | Source transparency of raw materials
R: Re‑Factor | Repurposing & circularity potential
S: Size | Inclusivity and production scale

 
This transforms a simple label into a story grid—communicating the journey of a product from raw material to final use. We believe sustainability is not a claim but a layered practice. Our framework evaluates materials, craft processes, and post-use potential to make informed design decisions. We are currently in the process of implementing this system for total transparency in the system. 

For Example, if a product label has M1, E2, T1, A2, P1, H2, O2, R0, S1 then it can also read as 121212201

So, from the table we can deduce that the product is made out of 100% Natural raw materials (M1), and is composed of linen (E2), the trims, i.e., buttons is ceramic (T1). It is constructed and finished using hand machine like a JUKI sewing machine by a master tailor (A2) and packed in a textile bag (P1). The handling or wash-care is of linen i.e. (H2), since the material is woven in a small unit (O2). Since no part of it is composed out of recycled or repurposed material the label reads (R0), and the size is made custom on demand (S1)

This is how you can read the TMS label of  Metaphors of Earth. 

TMS GUIDE