MaterialDistrict

Wild silk

Code
ONA736
Country
United States
Brand
CPALI

Request Information

Please sign in first or register for free to contact CPALI.

- story by MaterialDistrict

Wild silk is a non-woven fabric made from silk, using a no-kill method. Conservation through Poverty Alleviation International (CPALI) works with two species of wild silk, both endemic to Madagascar: Antherina surka and Ceranchia apollina. In order to conserve native species, farmers learn to rear these moths with care and harvest the silk using a no-kill method that allows the silkworm to continue its lifecycle into adulthood and become a moth.

The no-kill method, however, shortens the fibre length of the silk and makes it less viable for spinning. Non-spun silk offers unique fabrics. 100% of the profits from Wild Silk are returned directly to Madagascar.

Material Properties