[MASTERCLASS] Fiber Values: Understanding Classifications of Natural Fibers beyond Monoculture

Working with a variety of fibers in biomaterial production

When we look into more diverse fields and ecosystem approaches, we are forced to look into resources as unpredictable and diverse. There is no monoculture biomass resource available in these cases, so on what terms do we make classifications? Let's try to look into various forms of fiber lengths to classify our resources.

What to expect?

This masterclass opens up the knowledge of fibers and bio production based on the qualitative attributes of fibers from different origins.

Next, we dive into the production of materials based on long and short fibers. Composite versus filaments. Solid versus flexible. Biodegradability versus strength.

And what if we prospect a field based on a mapping that covers species, but also energy, installations and human and non-human interaction? We deduct our production process from what is available and locally sourced.

We learn about attributes and effects of production, binders, diversifying of fibers and open source production manners.

Program

The masterclass of 2 days holds 4 workshops. Jesse Howard, our project lead for Critical Biomass, will lead participants through this two-day experience.

• Methodological framework introduction

(detailed workshop descriptions will be published soon)

• Long fibers Anneleen Bertels 

(detailed workshop descriptions will be published soon)

• Medium fibers Barbara Mydlak

The Future of Handmade Paper Made From Plant Waste

This workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of hand papermaking using plant-based fibers. It focuses on the selection of appropriate fiber types for various artistic and design applications, highlighting their structural, aesthetic, and ecological properties.

Participants will learn how to process plant waste (e.g., stems, leaves, bark) into pulp suitable for papermaking. Preparation techniques including: soaking, cooking, and beating of fibers and safe handling of potentially toxic plant species during processing.

The workshop also covers topics such as the retention of pigment in plant material, optimal storage conditions for preserving handmade paper from different fiber sources (humidity, light, temperature, pH). Comparative biodegradability and longevity of papers depending on plant species and processing method, as well as the role of handmade paper in sustainable art, design and long-term material resilience.

Designed for anyone interested in sustainable practices, artists, designers, and researchers. The workshop bridges traditional crafts, material science with creative practice.

• Short fibers Mahe Plancke

(detailed workshop descriptions will be published soon)

Practical info

• Date: 27-28 juli 2025

• Time: 09:00 – 17:00

• Location: Timelab, Kogelstraat 34, 9000 Gent

• Fee: 800 euro (incl VAT, incl food)

• Language: Dutch & English

• Lunch: 2 x lunch, 1x dinner (available at the Eatery)

• Registration mandatory

Who is it for?

Professionals and anyone who is interested in working with biomaterial in design. Knowledge of biochemical, industrial processes of design and production methods will come in handy, but is not a must.