Natural Latex: Processing and Crafting

In this fellowship report, Molly Younger explores sustainable processing and manufacturing of
natural latex, to be utilised within design and fashion practices to drive alternate ways of
production. The fellowship involved a collaborative project between researcher Dr. Flavia Amadeu,
a group of female artisan/rubber tappers, Flores da Seringueira and the Fellow in Legal Amazon.
Uncovered in the report are the agricultural origins, material composition, cultural context, craft
practices, and economic structures of natural latex, to form an understanding of the material and its
potential applications. The research intends to promote a sustainable approach to natural latex
within a design and fashion practice, to prompt reflection and action. To support the integration of
natural latex into Australian design and fashion sectors, the research recommends advancing
education, technical skills and collaborative practice.