Tussah

/ˈtʌsə/ noun

Definition

Wild silk produced by tussah silkworms, characterized by its natural golden-brown color, slubbed texture, and slightly coarser feel compared to cultivated silk.

Etymology

From Hindi 'tasar', meaning 'shuttle'. Unlike domesticated silkworms, tussah moths live in forests and feed on oak and other wild trees, producing silk with a distinctive irregular texture.

Kelly Says

Tussah silk's natural golden hues come from the tannins in the wild leaves the silkworms eat – no dyeing required! This 'peace silk' allows the moth to complete its life cycle, making it the ethical choice for Buddhist monks' robes for over 1,000 years.

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