The Mystery of Silk: A Brief Global History of the Remarkable Material

From the cocoon of the bombyx mori silk moth, to shiny couture dresses, join us on a journey through the fascinating world of silk – all the way from fibre to thread.

Used in anything from fashion and furnishings, to fishing lines and parachutes, silk is a remarkably versatile material. But how does it stay cool in hot weather, and warm in cold weather? How is silk made? What makes it a strong, yet lightweight fibre? How can it be used to create so many different styles and textures?

00:00 Uses of silk
00:35 Properties of silk
02:03 What is silk? Under the microscope
02:48 How is silk produced? Sericulture
04:25 Silk embroidery
05:10 Silk weaving
05:35 Silk knotting (from norigae to macramé)
06:21 Knitting with silk
06:40 Finishes – stamping, slashing, moiré, pleating, smocking
07:00 What is the future of silk? Silk in space?