Sustainable sequins and paillettes

“In one year, British women purchase 33 million sequined
garments and accessories at a cost of £415 million.”*

Problem

The current products available in the marketplace are derived from non-compostable plastics. Some of the sustainable versions are created from upcycling plastics, but the source of the material is still harmful to the environment. There is a need for circular materials to be implemented into the textiles and apparel industry. Sustainable designers have asked for sequins that have a circular product life cycle. This product offers a sustainable option, derived from agriculture waste, that can be composted and biodegraded without harming the environment.

Solution

Paillettes and sequins created with a circular lifespan that are meant to be composted or biodegraded without negatively effecting the environment. The colors are created using nontoxic materials derived from algae, hemp, coffee, minerals, pigments, and biodegradable glitters. The finishes include luster and matte options in gold, green, black, grey, blue, and brown. Other variations include speckles of glitter scattered in clear shapes. The paillettes are intended to be sewn onto garments, accessories, and interior design products to create aesthetic interest and visual beauty.

Benefits

The production method allows for newer technologies and sustainable materials to be introduced into the marketplace, compared to the toxic materials currently for sale. The equipment is less expensive and smaller in size.