Milking it: Textiles made from casein
Anke Domaske
Profession:
Qualified biologist and fashion designer
Title:
GDirector of Qmilch GmbH in Hanover
Profession:
Qualified biologist and fashion designer
Title:
GDirector of Qmilch GmbH in Hanover
Hanover local Anke Domaske's QMilch has developed a natural fibre made from casein, a milk protein. Without any recourse to chemical processes, the qualified biologist and fashion designer spins dairy waste products to create the source material for her own fashion collection. In 2011, she founded her own company, QMilch, where she began to create clothing made from milk.
How does your company contribute to the development of a bio-based economy?
We use non-food milk and up-cycle it to produce a premium product. We use a sustainable, zero-waste process to manufacture a 100%-natural textile fibre from milk.
How did you come up with the idea of making textiles from milk?
Five years ago my stepfather fell ill with cancer. We couldn't find anything for him to wear. That's when we came up with the idea of creating a fibre that was 100% natural.
What was most challenging about the process?
There were many challenges such as process development, funding and putting a team together. But challenges help you to grow; they're part and parcel of being an entrepreneur.
What do you find most inspiring about the project?
I find it inspiring to be able to change the world, to do something for humanity and the environment, and to grow as a person as a result of the challenges faced.
What do you plan on doing next?
We are currently entering the market. We hope that we can finally make end products from our material and consolidate what we've built up over the past few years.
Interview: Beatrix Boldt
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