Phragmites Innovation
Seen below are the steps we took to use the invasive plant species phragmites to utilize into a fiber which is used for fabric.
Harvesting
Phragmites stems are harvested and store for 8 to 14 days.
Retting
Stems are soaked on water for 8 to 14 days.
Break/Scutching
Stems are boiled for 30 min. Then, soak in water + baking soda for 24 hours and until stem are flexible and fibers easily separated.
Hackling
Outer layer of stem is broke with mechanical tools until get fibers.
Spinning
It involves taking a clump of fibers and teasing a bit of them out, then twisting it into a continuous thread or yarn.
Weaving
Yarns are woven to constitute the fabric.
What is Phragmites?
Also called the "Common Reed" Phragmites australis is a hardy perennial reed invasive to North America Native to the Middle East region. It forms dense stands trapping stormwater and outcompetes native species.
