Biohybrid Corsetry

Interweaving kombucha threads and natural yarn

Understanding Kombucha Threads
Kombucha threads exhibit flexibility and softness that fluctuate with environmental conditions—a fascinating yet reversible characteristic that currently limits their stability for textile applications. To address these challenges, the research explored co-weaving kombucha threads with other biodegradable materials, enhancing durability and strength while deepening the understanding of kombucha threads as a functional textile.

Researcher
Vanessa Song

SUPERVISION
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Virginia Binsch

Project Date

31.03.24 - 31.05.24

Category

Residency

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Woven Hybrid Corset
A key experiment during the residency involved developing a corset structure reinforced with kombucha threads. Traditional corsets rely on plastic or steel boning, which is non-biodegradable and can compromise comfort and garment longevity. Kombucha threads provided a natural alternative, embedding structural support within the woven fabric while maintaining flexibility and biodegradability.

Material Combinations and Weaving Techniques
To optimize the performance of kombucha threads, various weaving techniques and material blends were tested. The study focused on three fundamental weave structures:
• Plain weave: The tightest structure with high tension, providing firm support.
• Twill weave: Commonly used in denim, offering stretch and flexibility.
• Satin weave: The softest and least tense, ideal for creating smooth, luxurious surfaces.

Material blends included:
• 80% Merino wool/20% silk: Created soft, smooth fabrics with slight elasticity.
• 100% Cotton yarn: Produced a coarser, chunkier texture suitable for casual wear.
• 100% Lyocell threads: Resulted in lightweight, silky fabrics with a refined appearance.
These material combinations allowed for controlled manipulation of texture, structure, and drape, adapting the fabric’s properties to different fashion applications.

Experimentation Process
A systematic approach was taken, maintaining consistent weaving sequences while varying material compositions. Notably, fabrics woven solely from kombucha threads were found to be extremely stiff, limiting wearability. However, hybrid samples—such as kombucha threads woven with merino wool/silk— achieved an optimal balance between structural integrity and comfort. Weaving kombucha threads horizontally maximizes freedom of movement, especially when sitting due to the positioning of kombucha threads. The stiffness of dried kombucha threads helped the fabric hold its shape, effectively wrapping the torso of the wearer tightly.

Conclusion and Outlook
The research demonstrated that kombucha threads could serve as a biodegradable reinforcement in textiles, particularly in structured garments requiring shape retention. The adaptability of kombucha hybrid fabrics opens possibilities for circular fashion applications where material responsiveness and ecological impact are key considerations. Moving forward, further refinement of material blends and weaving techniques could enhance the comfort and versatility of kombucha-based textiles, paving the way for innovative, biodegradable fashion solutions.

Researcher
Vanessa Song

SUPERVISION
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Virginia Binsch

Project Date

31.03.24 - 31.05.24

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