Today, sustainability is an imperative for industry, in all its sectors. The common focus is on
achieving development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the future of the Planet and
its People.
In the field of fashion and textiles, this momentum toward sustainability translates also into an embryonic
process of transformation of the material dimension. This positive transformation is characterized by the
choice of new textile solutions supported by growing investments, radical experimentation, and a strong
commitment to sustainability. Within this framework, there is a growing interest in bio-based materials, not
only from material engineering experts, but also from designers who are starting to explore the possibilities
offered by these materials through experiments more focused on design and aesthetics. According to the
presented scenario, the proposed article investigates how to strategically implement the systematization of
experiments in order to promote the development of an efficient and effective production chain for the growth
of bacterial cellulose (BC). To do so, the authors will draw on the knowledge reservoir produced by the De-
FORMA project - of which they are all members. This project has just initiated experimentation around the
systematization of growth processes and characterization of bacterial cellulose. Specifically, the materials and
methods used during the project's initial research phases will be here introduced and illustrated.
GROWING MATERIALS: EXPLORING NEW DESIGN PRACTICES
TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FASHION SECTOR