Researcher creates vegan leather from used tea

Fazilet Ceyhanlı, a research assistant at Çukurova University’s Textile and Fashion Design Department, Adana, has introduced a unique collection of designs made from “vegan leather” crafted using used tea. She developed this innovative material while working on her doctoral thesis. The collection was unveiled at an exhibition in the southern city.

During her research, she explored ways to ferment used tea to create a sustainable, leather-like fabric. To demonstrate the potential of this eco-friendly material, she designed five garments along with ten surface design samples, which are currently on display in the Seyhan district.

Speaking to the media, Ceyhanlı highlighted that her main goal was to develop a completely organic and sustainable material that does not harm nature or animals while serving as an alternative to traditional leather. “This material offers a durable, non-woven surface similar to leather, eliminating the need for animal-based products.”

“I applied different textile techniques, including knitting, embroidery, and weaving. It was exposed to metal without deteriorating and also passed fabric and stitching strength tests successfully,” she added.