The collaboration between Epson, the world leader in printing technology, and Japanese fashion designer Yuima Nakazato represents a crucial innovation for sustainable fashion. This partnership fuses advanced technology and artistic creativity, using Epson's pigment inkjet printing on Brewed Protein™ fibres developed by the biotech company Spiber. Nakazato's new collection was unveiled on 26 June 2024 at Haute Couture Week in Paris, setting a new standard for the textile industry and paving the way for more ecological and responsible practices.

Spiber's Brewed Protein™ fibres are produced through an innovative microbial fermentation process using plant ingredients and microorganisms, creating a protein fibre that offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional animal-based fibres such as cashmere and silk. This material is designed to be both ecologically sustainable as well as versatile and luxurious, featuring a unique weave that retains all the qualities desired by high-end designers.

Printing on these fibres, however, presents specific challenges, as mixed materials often require different types of inks that can limit creative possibilities. This is where Epson's pigment inkjet printing technology comes in, overcoming these obstacles with its ability to print accurately on a variety of textiles, including mixed fabrics. This flexibility not only expands design possibilities, but also supports the environmental narrative of Brewed Protein™ fibres, aligning with the growing demand for more ethical and sustainable materials in the fashion world.

Epson's pigment inkjet printing, used in Nakazato's collection, represents a breakthrough in sustainable textile production. Unlike traditional soluble inks, the pigments used by Epson do not require steaming and washing processes, significantly reducing water consumption and chemical emissions. Epson's Monna Lisa technology, in particular, reduces water use by 96% compared to conventional methods, making this solution not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective for textile manufacturers.
This innovative approach not only improves production efficiency but also delivers superior print quality with sharp details and vivid colours. Epson's ability to print in high resolution on Brewed Protein™ fibres enables designers to bring their visions to life with unprecedented precision, opening up new creative possibilities without harming the environment.

In addition to printing on Brewed Protein™ fibres, Epson has also introduced significant innovations in the production of non-wovens through its Dry Fiber technology. This process uses fabric waste from sewing factories to create new materials, further reducing the environmental impact of textile production. Nonwoven fabrics produced with this technology can be printed using pigment inks, allowing for larger pieces and more complex designs.

Nakazato's collection includes garments made from this innovative fabric, demonstrating how waste can be transformed into high-fashion materials. This practice not only reduces waste, but also promotes a circular economy model, where resources are reused and enhanced, rather than discarded.
Epson and Yuima Nakazato share a common vision: to make fashion more accessible, personalised and sustainable. Through the integration of advanced technologies and responsible practices, they aim to transform the entire value chain of the fashion industry, making it more eco-friendly and innovative. This collaboration demonstrates how technology can be a powerful ally in the fight for a more sustainable future, opening up new opportunities for designers and textile manufacturers.

The partnership between Epson and Nakazato is not only an example of technological innovation, but also a model of how the fashion industry can evolve towards more responsible and environmentally friendly practices. By harnessing the power of pigment inkjet printing on Spiber's Brewed Protein™ fibres, Epson is expanding the boundaries of creative expression and setting new standards for sustainability. This joint approach between technology and design not only inspires the industry, but offers a tangible vision of a future where fashion can be both innovative and environmentally responsible.