Screen printing, a widely used and versatile technique, is often associated with high water consumption and significant waste production. One specific method within screen printing, known as flocking, involves applying small fibres—typically synthetic—to create soft, velvet-like textures on surfaces. However, the environmental impact of these traditional practices has sparked interest in more sustainable alternatives. The “Printing Herbarium” project by Paula Andrea Molina offers an innovative, phytocentric approach to reimagining screen printing. By integrating living organisms, such as moss, into the printing process, this research explores new possibilities for creating textures and embellishments that align with nature’s rhythms and processes. The result is a co-created collection of living textures, combining traditional printing techniques with biological growth.

Moss as a Biobased Material
At its core, this project pioneers the use of moss as a living, biobased material for surface embellishment. Moss is a resilient and low-maintenance organism, capable of thriving under various conditions. Its incorporation into printing techniques introduces a dynamic, evolving aesthetic, transforming static designs into living, breathing works of art. This approach aligns with principles of sustainability and circularity, offering an alternative to synthetic materials traditionally used in flocking. Moreover, the research includes hacking conventional printing tools to create optimal growth environments for the moss samples. This involves the development of specialized equipment and techniques that support the integration of biological materials into design processes. By doing so, the project not only showcases the aesthetic potential of living materials but also highlights their feasibility for broader applications.

Applications Across Design Disciplines
The innovations presented in “Printing Herbarium” hold relevance for various design disciplines. In interior design, living textures can be applied to wall coverings, furniture, and decorative elements, bringing a natural and sustainable dimension to interiors. For fashion and textile design, the combination of traditional screen printing with living materials offers unique opportunities for sustainable and biodegradable garments and accessories. Landscape architecture can draw inspiration from the project’s phytocentric approach to integrate living organisms into urban spaces and outdoor installations. In product design, biobased embellishments can enhance product aesthetics while reducing environmental impact, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable consumer goods.

Advancing Circular Design Principles
By prioritizing biobased and recyclable materials, “Printing Herbarium” addresses key challenges in sustainable design. The project demonstrates how traditional practices can be reimagined to reduce waste and incorporate circular principles. Living textures not only provide a unique sensory experience but also contribute to a deeper connection with nature, fostering mindfulness and environmental awareness. This research underscores the potential of combining traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability goals, opening doors to a new realm of material innovation. For designers seeking to integrate ecological thinking into their work, “Printing Herbarium” serves as an inspiring example of what is possible when we align creative practices with the principles of nature.

Source: Green Product Awards, Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London
Photos: Paula Andrea Molina, Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London