Project¶

Living Materials from Kombucha¶

A living biomaterial grown through fermentation.

This project explores kombucha SCOBY as a material system that can be transformed into both biotextiles and skin-contact applications, offering a biodegradable alternative to synthetic materials.

By drying SCOBY, I developed a vegan leather-like material that can be used in garments, gloves, and accessories.

In parallel, I explored skin-contact applications, including:

wound dressings
under-eye patches
herbal compresses

Different fermentations using lemon & ginger, calendula & chamomile, and rosemary allowed variations in texture, flexibility, and scent.

The project combines traditional fermentation knowledge with biomaterial design, positioning SCOBY as a versatile and sustainable material for future applications.