Wonderful Wild Silks at the Illinois Fiber Festival 2026

Many moths produce silk besides Bombyx mori (mulberry silk). Explore the wonderful world of wild and semi-wild silks. Sample Cecropia, Polyphemus, Promethea, Luna, Calleta, and more from North America; Ceranchia and others from Madagascar; Cricula from Indonesia; semi-wild Eri, Muga, and Tropical Tussah from India; and Chinese Oak Tussah from China. Learn about the species of moths that produce each of these silks and many other species that have been used historically on almost every continent. Some cocoons will be degummed (softened) and there will be samples to spin. Some species are not usually spun; learn how these can be incorporated into fiber art.

Also check out other Festivals in Normal, Arts events in Normal.