Bio-based fabric made from castor beans
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The fabric, which comes in a range of five prints, offers a step towards a more sustainable home collection
Spotted: The Italian, family-owned fabric house, Rubelli, has recently announced a new range of eco-friendly fabrics made entirely from natural materials. The fabric is a combination of co-viscose and an eco-polyamide made from castor bean extract, according to Homes and Gardens.
Founded in 1835, Rubelli is a leading luxury brand that partners with high-end fashion brands such as Armani. The house not only has its own mill in Cucciago, near Como, but provides a colourful fusion of past and present, operating 28 latest-generation electronic jacquard looms alongside handlooms from the late eighteenth century.
Studio head, Alberto Pezzato, told Homes and Gardens that the brand recognises the importance of living and buying ethically. According to Alberto, Rubelli only took one year to produce the new fabric.
The collection includes five eco-fabrics, ranging from contemporary to classical patterns, all of which, according to the brand, match the luxurious texture and quality of fabrics made from manmade fibres — the sole difference being that Rubelli’s fabrics are sustainable.
Patterns in the collection include Lollipop, which comes in 6 tones, reminiscent of the fabric seen in a 1950’s home decor magazine. In contrast, Martinique is inspired by eighteenth-century lace. Cuba Libre is a diamond print; Java pays homage to Japanese lacquer; Vibrations is made up of brushstrokes like that of a painting.
Rubelli says it is only the beginning for them. Next up for the business, a 2022 collection promises more sustainable fabrics.
Castor beans grow easily and are a crop not used as food. Moreover, they do not require large amounts of water. For these reasons and their high oil content, castor beans are also gaining popularity in the biofuel industry. In spite of its costliness, the Rubelli collection is making waves in the world of interior design, collaborating with brands such as Armani, and providing a significant step towards dressing homes without impacting the planet.
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