When CQ Studios got in contact with us about their incredible biodegradable sequins we knew they would be the perfect addition to the Mary Anning Embroidery Kit. Mary Anning was a fossil hunter and self-taught palaeontologist in the 1800s who spent her life exploring the natural world and uncovering stories along the south coast of England - the embroidery kit inspired by Anning's story felt like a great opportunity to feature CQ Studios sequins in the design as a sustainable choice. We interviewed their founder Cassie to find out more about the amazing work they do.
Can you tell us the story behind CQ Studio and how it all began?
Having studied and worked specifically within textiles I really took notice on how many unsustainable processes were industry standard. Especially within the print and dye lab, you have to use some strong chemicals and auxiliaries to dye and print fabric, not to mention the amount of wastewater produced in both processes. I wanted to find ways to use my practice without damaging the planet.
What inspired you to work with sustainable and biodegradable materials?
This really started with trying to solve my own problems, I was reading a lot of articles about what impact fashion was having on the planet both through the production and end of life of a garment. I started researching better materials for embroidery, print and dye and couldn't find anything available that I wanted to use and so I decided to pivot and retrain as a biodesginer through the Master's course at Central Saint Martins.
Could you tell us a little more about the process of creating the sequins used in the Mary Anning Kit?
There is a lot of wastewater produced when dyeing fabric, even if it's a natural dye - wastewater is still a huge issue and just because something is organic does not mean we can allow it to reach our waterways without impact. I developed a process to use fungi to clean this wastewater and use this collected waste to make our sequins, they are cast into sheets and cut into the shapes available in the pack. I originally developed these materials for LVMH for the IUCN World Congress where they were on display during the conference.
What challenges have you faced with creating eco-friendly materials?
One of the biggest issues we are facing is how to scale C&Q Studio production to keep up with demand in an industry that is rife with overconsumption. We want to scale C&Q studio in a responsible and balanced way.
Another issue is meeting industry standards. We are surrounded by materials built to last beyond the required need of their application. Because these standards are set as a minimum, it means new materials also have to meet these highly unrealistic and unnecessary standards. Things should be built to last but not everything should last forever.
Do you feel the fashion industry is moving in a direction where sustainable materials will be more commonly used?
I do see huge shifts in behaviour and attitude towards sustainable materials. With trade shows such as the Future Fabric Expo and Biofabricate highlighting innovative solutions available at a range of stages of commercial readiness, there is a real proof of options for designers to use. Ultimately it is no longer a choice, it's a necessary action that we all collectively must make as designers, researchers, consumers and humans to choose better with our impact in mind.
Do you have any advice on small changes creatives/designers can make to be more sustainable in their work?
Start small and don't overwhelm yourself by doing too much all at once. Make small, considered choices that are well researched. You might make mistakes but as long as you work with the right intention, you can grow and adapt. Learn and listen to others who can give you guidance. Most importantly, act now! Don't wait for others to act first because we are in crisis, and we all have a part to play.
What's next for CQ Studios?
We are working with production companies to test and scale the production of our materials. We are hoping to have our products available to purchase very soon!
As well as our material research, we often run events and workshops that give deeper insights into our materials and the frameworks that we utilise within our work. These events are a chance to connect with likeminded people with a focus on sustainability in a relaxed atmosphere. Keep an eye on our Instagram for updates on this!
You can read more about CQ Studios on their website
here and follow along with their amazing journey through their
Instagram.
If you have purchased one of our Mary Anning Embroidery Kits we would love to know how you have found the new biodegradable sequins in the comments below!
Please provide your feedback on the look, feel and handle of the bio sequins to support C&Q studios market research!
Author: Eve Lynch
