What is wild silk fabric used for?


wild silk scarves
wild silk scarves

In this post  I discussed the production process of wild silk fabric as well as the role of wild in the lives of Malagasy people.   In today’s post I will explore how  we in the west use wild silk fabric.

What is wild silk?

Unlike fine silk which is produced from worms  that have been domesticated and not allowed to live their full life, wild silk is produced from cocoons where the month has left naturally. This means that the resultant thread is broken and coarse/rough in texture. Because of the way wild silk is produced it is often referred to as Humane or peace silk.

In Madagascar wild silk is produced from a silk worm  called Landibe ( borocera madagascariensis) and is a large  cocoon made by a number of silkworms working in one cocoon.

Wild Silk uses

The wild silk fabric is very warm and gives a comforting feeling in spite of its appearance so it can be put to several uses including;

  1. Winter scarves and shawls
  2. Fashion accessories
  3. Lampshades
  4. Cushion covers
  5. Floor rugs
  6. Tableware
  7. Clothing- mostly winter

The versatility of the wild silk fabric means, that in some instances it can be interwoven with domesticated silk to produce a luxurious fabric.

Ethnic Supplies works alongside a conservation Charity based in Scotland called   FEEDBACK MADAGASCAR who support the Ny Tanintsika community project with a view to ensuring that this way of life is sustained and also that women can earn a sustainable income. This we believe is a better way out of poverty for these women.

Madagascar is one the Sub Saharan countries that is food insecure. This situation is compounded by an annual infestation on locusts that wipe out entire crops and livestock. Enabling women to earn a sustainable income ensures that they can access food in particular protein without destroying the forest.


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