Fast fashion is slowly but steadily coming to an end. We are moving towards sustainable fashion instead of buying animal fur coats and leather items. The leather that is used for fashion products is treated using toxic chemicals that pollute our environment. It is high time we moved towards a more eco-friendly alternative and muskin is the perfect solution.
The times are changing and technology is reaching new heights every day. Leather can now be made from pineapple or apple skin too! However, Muskin is made from the cap of a kind of wild mushroom. It is a step ahead from the leather that is being produced from apple scraps and pineapples.
A company based in Montelupo Fiorentino, Zero Grado Espace, came up with a solution for the production of muskin. The skin of a big and inedible type of mushroom called Phellinus ellipsoideus is used to make muskin. It is treated using natural techniques and that lends a unique texture to the leather. Instead of harmful chemicals, eco-wax is used to treat the mushroom skin. This kind of mushroom is found in subtropical forests.
If you are wondering that the removal of this particular mushroom will affect the ecosystem, there’s nothing to worry about. Removing the Phellinus ellipsoideus has benefited the trees in the forests. Muskin can be used for making a lot of accessories like belts, wallets, bags, and even shoes. It has a beautiful cork-like texture which feels like suede.
If you are still considering that vegetable leather is not exactly what you need, this may change your mind. Muskin is a thermal insulator – it absorbs and releases moisture. It repels water, isn’t toxic, easily transpires, and prevents bacterial proliferation. In case you are allergy-prone, muskin is a boon for you! You won’t have to deal with any kind of allergic reaction because muskin is completely made of natural substances. It is perfect for the people who have sensitive skin and those who wish to go green.
The only problem until now is the slow production rate. It is an extremely complex process and only forty to fifty square meters of leather can be produced in a month. This makes it suitable for products that are exclusive. It isn’t something meant for mass production but it surely is benefiting the environment. Hopefully, the future is all about eco-friendly fashion and muskin is a step in that direction.
