The master’s thesis titled Use of Japanese knotweed in woven textiles explores the utilization of an invasive plant in textile applications in connection with the idea of regenerative design. The issue of invasive plant proliferation and the lack of constructive approaches to limit their excessive growth are highlighted. Solutions are sought in regenerative design, which goes beyond sustainable approaches by repairing negative consequences and taking a holistic view of the problem.

The result is a collection of fabrics that not only includes paper made from Japanese knotweed, but also dye derived from its roots and wood obtained from its stems. The shapes are achieved by sprinkling the fabric with water and letting it dry on a shape. After drying, the textile piece keeps the shape of the object it was drying on. The shapes are achieved by sprinkling the fabric with water and allowing it to dry over a mold. Once dry, the textile piece retains the shape of the object it was dried on.

Master’s thesis process.

Paper yarn spinning, colouring with Japanese knotweed rhizome extract, hand-weaving.

Final master’s thesis collection.