Introduction
Let's explore some ideas for transforming the peculiar appearance of Eri Silk Cocoons into luxuriously soft, fine silk thread? Let me share with you a straightforward process that requires no special ingredients!
Experimentation and Research
I have experimented with various methods of extracting the fine silk thread from the cocoons and discovered the key lies in breaking down the sericin, a gum-like substance that binds the silk thread to the cocoon. While there are lots of different methods out there I decided to keep it as simple as possible and am very satisfied with the results.
Using Eri Red Silk Cocoons, renowned for their natural red hue that deepens with water immersion, I explored two methods to extract the exquisite silk thread.
Method A: Soaking Silk Cocoons
I soaked a handful of cocoons in freshly boiled water for approximately 20 minutes before air-drying them overnight. Despite a slightly stiff silk thread due to the short soaking time, I successfully separated it from the cocoon's internal shell, retaining the thread's rich colour.
Method B: Simmering Silk Cocoons
Exploring the idea of using bicarbonate of soda as an aid to break down the sericin, I simmered the cocoons in a water-bicarb mixture (2 teaspoons of bicarb to a small pan half filled with water) for about an hour.
Initially concerned by the shrivelled appearance post-simmering, I was pleasantly surprised to find clouds of fluffy, golden silk after drying. It was relatively easy to tease any silk which remained attached to the cocoon. Some silk strands displayed a pale color, indicative of the simmering process.
The attached video illustrates the teasing exercise.
As a post experiment note: it is possible that the bicarb of soda may have affected the colour of the silk. I say this because when I did a similar exercise using the White Eri Cocoons and beetroot juice, I added bicarb of soda to the water and everything turned a mucky brown colour. More experimentation is needed here. I suggest try simmering some cocoons with bicarb of soda and some without - let me know how you go!
By following these steps, you can unlock the hidden beauty within Eri Silk Cocoons and create stunning silk threads and shapes for your projects.
Explore our full range of Silk Cocoons here.
