Textiles Spun by Unraveling the Secrets of Charlotte’s Web

spider silkWhile I’ve never been an insect-loving person, spiders happen to be the one variety that does not “bug” me. (Sorry, couldn’t help it) And I’m wondering if I secretly like them because they are producers of spun fibers, indirectly involved in the textile industry, and therefore an ally of mine….

I read today that spider silk has tensile strength five times that of steel. And, until recently, scientists were not sure how to replicate what these little guys can do. But that has changed. Innovators at TU München have discovered the secret to the production of the super strong, elastic fibers. Currently in the process of creating a machine that mimics the spinning process of the spider, this development will open the doors for an unlimited potential in the world of textile technology. Whether medical, home, or fashion, I picture the fabrics that will be created by this yarn to be as intricate as the spider’s web itself. Charlotte would be so proud.

Nicole Giordano

Nicole is the founder of StartUp FASHION, an online resource and community supporting for independent designers around the world with building their businesses. A deep love for the craft of fashion paired with an adamant belief that success is defined by the individual, led her to found StartUp FASHION, where she helps independent designers and makers screw the traditional fashion business rules, create their own paths, and build businesses they truly love. More than anything else, she’s in the business of encouragement and works every day to remind makers and designers that they have something special to offer the world and that they can, in fact, do this thing!