ERI SILK Eri silk is a protein fibre derived from cocoons made by the Samia Cynthia Ricini moth or Philosamia Ricini moth. It is 100% natural and is also referred as Ahimsa or Peace Silk as the pupa or the silk worm is not killed & is allowed to come out of the cocoon unlike the other three forms of silk i.e. Mulberry, Muga & Tussar. Predominantly found in Assam, Meghalaya and other northeast states of India it is also considered a Vanya (wild) silk. Eri silk yarn has some unique properties hence why it is known as an all-weather fibre. The ERI SILK Eri silk is a protein fibre derived from cocoons made by the Samia Cynthia Ricini moth or Philosamia Ricini moth. It is 100% natural and is also referred as Ahimsa or Peace Silk as the pupa or the silk worm is not killed & is allowed to come out of the cocoon unlike the other three forms of silk i.e. Mulberry, Muga & Tussar. Predominantly found in Assam, Meghalaya and other northeast states of India it is also considered a Vanya (wild) silk. Eri silk yarn has some unique properties hence why it is known as an all-weather fibre. The Isothermal properties of Eri silk makes it cool in summer and its thermal properties make it warm in winter. The process of producing Eri silk yarns and fibres in the villages has the smallest carbon footprint in the world in the textile industry. Another unique factor is that all activities from rearing of the silkworms to weaving happens within a village ecosystem. Unlike other textile fibres Eri silk production resembles a model of a circular economy. Eri silk is mostly used in weaving in India’s Northeast region, but has great potential in knitting, crochet, and embroidery. Due to its staple (short) fibre makeup requiring it to be spun and not reeled. In addition it has a woolly texture or a cotton-like behaviour and is heavier than other silks. Its natural properties make it gentle on the skin and doesn’t cause irritation or itchiness. Eri silk is hydrophilic, a fibre that loves water and can absorbs it well. It is well known to be the most absorbent silk that works very well with natural dyes. Eri silk Rearing process The process of rearing Eri silk is still small scale done in homes of rearers in the villages. Eri silkworms can be fed Castor leaves, Tapioca leaves and Payam leaves, which are perennial in nature and require low maintenance. Although the Eri silkworm is known to feed on the leaves of different plant species, Castor is usually the preferred food. The cycle from an egg to cocoon takes around 50 days! • Eri silkworms continue feeding on the castor leaves and they also excrete body wastes at the same time. During the growth process, their colour changes from a yellow into a green-yellow colour before they are ready to spin their cocoons. • After 20-22 days, the process of spinning the cocoon begins. The Eri silkworm emerges as a moth from its cocoon after three weeks. Eri silk cocoons are open-ended, hence the moth emerges out by itself. After the moth leaves the cocoon, the empty cocoons are collected to harvest the silk fibres. Degumming Process Of Eri Silk Degumming process involves removing a gummy substance from the cocoons. All silk fibres are made of two proteins, Sericin (outer) and Fibroin (inner). The outer gummy protein called Sericin helps the fibres to stick together. And hence, this gummy sericin needs to be washed off so that the strands of the fibre can be separated. Degumming of the silk cocoons by hand - For about 1 kilo cocoons approximately 4 litres of water is needed in a vessel and half a cup of alkaline soap is added and brought to a boil. Unlike other silks that require the pupa to be inside of the cocoon when degumming, Eri silk only uses the empty cocoons. The term ‘Ahimsa’ or ‘Peace silk’ or ‘Non-violent silk’ is derived due to this process. Next the degummed cocoons are stretched, flattened, and dried. Eri silk yarn can be spun directly from a fluffed cocoon. Alternately the degummed cocoons can be dyed and yarn spun or used for other crafting needs. Difference Between Cotton & Eri Properties of Eri Silk 1. Eri silk is all climate-friendly Often, silk is not worn in summers due to its bulky texture. However, Eri silk is a variety of white wooly silk that keeps you cool during summers and warm during winters. This thermal property of the silk makes it a year-round fabric, thereby increasing its popularity. The cozy and warm feel of the fabric makes it an excellent choice for winter wear like shawls and shrugs. 2. Eri silk is spun like cotton The fibers of silk are very delicate and need utmost care to be spun. However, the thread obtained by drying the Eri cocoons is strong, durable, and can be spun like cotton. This makes its weaving easier. The Eri silk fabric also has a much softer texture, giving you an amazing drape. 3. Eri silk blends easily with cotton or wool Blended silk fabrics may be the perfect solution to eliminate the negative traits of silk and optimize the uses of the fabric. But pure silk is difficult to blend. However, Eri silk blends well with most cotton and wool fabrics, giving it a unique look and feel. It is also heavier and darker than most other silks. 4. Eri silk is the only non-violent silk in the world Eri silk is the only silk in the world that does not involve killing the silkworms. The Eri silkworms spin an open-ended cocoon, which they leave once they transform into moths. This is the reason why this eco-friendly silk is getting popular with vegans. Hence, this fabric has become the status symbol for non-violent, eco-friendly, and sustainable fashion. 6. Eri silk is hypoallergenic and skin-friendly The soft properties of Eri silk ensure that it doesn’t irritate the skin or cause rashes. Also, Eri silk is spun and dyed using natural dyes. This makes it extremely hypoallergenic. Most people with sensitive skin can wear Eri silk fabrics because of these properties. 7. Eri silk is hydrophilic This is one of the reasons that make Eri silk easier to maintain. Unlike other silks, Eri silk absorbs water. This makes it softer and skin-friendly. Other silk fabrics tend to require extra care due to their delicate nature but Eri silk is user-friendly and long-lasting as well. Conclusion Most of the Eri silk production of thread and fabric remains in the regions of Assam and Meghalaya. The amazing properties of Eri silk are making it a better choice for the manufacture of silk fabrics. This huge demand for Eri silk products only goes on to show that the world is slowly moving towards friendly sustainable choices.

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