Natural Trekking Project

Materials

I used a wide range of petrochemical-free materials, including leather, bamboo, sheep and musk ox wool, natural latex, cotton, linen, silk, linseed oil, and pine tar. I included metals in the collection as they are quite necessary for functionality, and do not release microplastics. I used cotton or silk thread throughout, leading to weak seams and reduced durability - most thread is entirely polyester or nylon.

Techniques

I made nearly everything myself in my studio in Oregon, USA, including the oiled silk fabric. The musk ox wool sweater and hat were custom-commissioned, as were the merino wool socks. And the shoes were bought directly from Feit. I made the collection in the winter and spring, and tested it throughout the summer in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest.

Next Steps

I plan to continue working with oiled silk, testing various fabric constructions, oiling methods, base oils, and seam constructions. I'll also try to develop a more comfortable sleeping pad, as this one is rotten. I'm curious especially to explore mycelium foam structures.