A pilot project with Origin by Ocean
Origin by Ocean is a Finnish technology and material innovation startup working on algae-based products. Origin by Ocean uses a patented biorefining process to extract bio-based chemicals from harvested harmful algae and ecologically farmed seaweed.
Marimekko and Origin by Ocean have joined forces in a pilot project to reimagine textile printing process – the pilot aims to substitute synthetic chemicals and reduce the amount of chemicals used in Marimekko's printing process.
In the pilot, we have substituted our current synthetic thickener with Origin by Ocean algae-based thickener within the print paste. A set of textile products was printed with Origin by Ocean Caerulo™ alginate, a print paste thickener made from marine biomass from the Dominican Republic.
Thickeners play a crucial role in the textile printing process, as they are the main component in the paste. Testing the use of bio-based thickeners in our printing process helps us toward our goal of reducing the amount of chemicals used in our supply chain. Every small step counts.
The Origin by Ocean capsule features the Pieni Unikko design in fabric, a cushion cover, and a tote bag. These items are exclusive to Finland and Europe.
