CHENSURE
Reimagine fashion
WHAT IS INVASIVE PLANTS
What exactly are invasive plants? An invasive plant refers to a plant species introduced into an area where it didn't naturally occur before. It develops and spreads without significant human intervention, posing a threat to local biodiversity. These plants reproduce rapidly, adapt to various environments, and compete with native plants for nutrients, sunlight, and space. Consequently, they cause the loss of regional ecological diversity, as well as affect human survival. They can even damage buildings and gardens, contain hard-to-remove neurotoxins, and require substantial financial resources for prevention and treatment.
invasion map
According to statistics from the British government, the annual cost of preventing and controlling invasive plants reaches up to 1.8 million pounds. To better understand the extent of invasion, I conducted an ecological survey comparing the London invasion list with the area where I live. I created an animated ecological invasion map (animation) that shows how invasive plants surround our lives, even within a city.
Additionally, I closely observed the growth of Buddleia, an invasive plant located near my house, over three months. The observations revealed its rapid expansion and invasion of the surrounding area.
CONCEPT: BIO-INVASIVE FUR WITH REGENERATE DYE
Drawing upon my experience in the design industry, my initial concept as a fur designer was to create fur solely from invasive plants—a fur that is harmless to animals, environmentally friendly, and biodegradable. After conducting six months of experiments, I successfully developed the original bio-fur. However, while reviewing my production process, I realized the implications of the dyeing process and the water pollution caused by dyeing mordants, prompting further reflection.
Drawing upon my experience in the design industry, my initial concept as a fur designer was to create fur solely from invasive plants—a fur that is harmless to animals, environmentally friendly, and biodegradable. After conducting six months of experiments, I successfully developed the original bio-fur. However, while reviewing my production process, I realized the implications of the dyeing process and the water pollution caused by dyeing mordants, prompting further reflection.
LIBRARY STRUCTURE
In my project, I divided the endeavor into three parts: the first part is a fabric library created from invasive plants; the second part involves mass-producing accessories and clothing using the fabrics from the library; and the third part is the practical implementation of the Bio-invasive system in real fashion collections.
Bio-invasive Textile Collection
Diversified fabric combinations: Diverse fabric samples emanating from a fur production system. Many of the fabric samples can be mass-produced
Bio-invasive Fashion Collection
As I desired my library to be more than just a sample, I endeavored to utilize its system to create a series of fashion products. In the design phase, I developed a set of ready-to-wear products using Bio-fur and bio felt to showcase the effectiveness.
what happens when the system actually makes its way into a fashion design.Collaboration with CSM BA Kintwear Silvia Acien
TECNOLOGY INNOVATION
The production process of fabrics typically involves three components: fiber, dyeing, and technique. Invasive plants can be utilized for both fiber and dyeing. Considering my design experience and material feasibility, I envisioned four achievable fabrics for the library.
Bio-invasive Dye process
Initially, I conducted staining tests on collected invasive plants to explore their dyeing potential. By simulating natural dyeing processes, I confirmed their suitability. To enhance the environmental friendliness of the dyeing process, I replaced chemical alum, a mordant, with a natural alternative—clubmoss or Princess pine, which acts as a natural alum substitute. This modification resulted in vibrant colors akin to those achieved with alum
''Implanting'
The Implanting machine represents a groundbreaking technology capable of integrating any type of fiber into any fabric, employing a mechanical structure inspired by the process of hair transplant surgery. The needle mechanism, simulating crochet patterns, enables the precise placement of fibers at the back of the fabric. Notably, this portable machine permits the implementation of various patterns and designs, facilitating versatility in fiber implantation.
' Flocking'
The Flocking machine, on the other hand, is a modified device that has undergone redesigning of the needle distance and angle, specifically tailored to accommodate the unique characteristics of nettle and ramie fibers. This modification allows the transformation of nettle and ramie fibers into felts akin to woolen coat fabrics. By combining these two machine technologies with knitting and spinning techniques, as well as employing a regenerative production process, the project successfully realizes the amalgamation of diverse fabric forms.
FINAL DISPLAY
Regarding the wastewater generated during the dyeing process, I combined it with unused vodka to produce paint. This paint was then sun-dried and used for screen printing on paper. I also used it as paint for beadwork on recycled paper. By combining these techniques, I designed a wide range of fabrics, some of which are showcased here. I combined these techniques to create my library, aiming to provide open resources that support the fashion industry, offering more sustainable choices.
