Bioyarn: Create Biotextiles from Algae

Learn how to turn algae into soft, flexible yarn!

In this workshop, you will create your own yarn from algae, composed of sodium alginate, water, glycerin, and olive oil.

Using a beginner-friendly technique, you'll learn to extrude this mixture into a calcium chloride bath, forming soft, elastic strands of yarn perfect for accessories, home decor, or knit tapestries. The possibilities are endless!

Algae yarn offers a sustainable alternative to traditional textile materials. Unlike plastic-based or petroleum-derived fibers, algae yarn is biodegradable, renewable, and low-impact, making it ideal for anyone interested in sustainable textiles.

Experiment with food coloring for a pop of color, or adjust the flexibility with the calcium chloride bath soaking time.

You’ll leave this workshop with your own bioyarn to experiment while wet, or take home to dry! Happy knitting!

Grace McCarty is a fashion designer and artist, currently exploring machine knitting in her work through the biomaterial lens. She has spent the last year at Genspace developing a bioyarn/ algae yarn quality that is workable on the home knitting machine. She is currently an activewear designer at Bandit Running, focusing on running apparel and accessories, and is always looking to use innovative fabrics and designs to provide the best running experience. Previously having done work with Fashion AI tools with IBM and 3D virtual garment creation, she has always wanted to incorporate more science & tech into her work, as it is her personal career goal to help alleviate the fashion industry's environmental impact by finding sustainable solutions through design and innovation.

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Info: In this workshop, you will learn what algae yarn is, prepare and create your own algae yarn mixture. Then extrude your mixture into the calcium chloride bath and have the option to knit or crochet the wet algae yarn, or take it home to dry and use later!

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