This is Dong from the ApparelX division.
This time I went to the Bemberg® Lining Museum+ held in Yurakucho, so I would like to share my impressions of the Bemberg® Lining Museum+ and what characteristics Bemberg lining has.
Have you ever heard of the word Bemberg?
I think many people involved in the apparel industry know this as a matter of course, but in the past I didn't really understand the difference between Bemberg and Cupro linings.
This is the brand name for Cupra, a regenerated cellulose fiber made from cotton.
Therefore, 100% Cupro = 100% Bemberg.
Currently, this material is manufactured only by Asahi KASEI in the world.
Bemberg® Lining Museum+ opened in Jimbocho in 2014 as a facility for people involved in fashion. Following the relocation of Asahi KASEI's office, it reopened in Tokyo Midtown Hibiya in November 2018.
The museum introduces the materials and production background using the spinning and winding machines actually used at the Nobeoka Bemberg® factory, as well as displays designer brand items that use Bemberg linings.
Unfortunately, Bemberg® Lining Museum+ will be closed until August 31, 2022, but I was able to visit it just in time before it closed. I'm very lucky~~~~
The VR version of Bemberg Lining Museum+ will continue to operate.
The raw material for Bemberg® is cotton linters, which are a byproduct of producing cottonseed oil.
Cotton linter is a fiber material that remains on the seeds after cotton is harvested.It is a fluffy fiber with a length of 2 to 6 mm that remains on the surface of the seeds after cotton is harvested. It is used as a raw material for paper as an alternative to cupra and wood pulp.
Because the raw materials are naturally derived, when Bemberg® is buried in the soil, it biodegrades through natural processes and returns to the soil to become compost without harming the soil.
Bemberg® lining is said to breathe with the skin because it quickly absorbs moisture through extremely small moisture channels that cannot be seen by the naked eye.
Compared to polyester fiber, it has a different crystal structure. Please refer to the photo below.
The official moisture content of Bemberg® is approximately 11%. Therefore, static electricity generated by friction is released into the air.
Bemberg® has a nearly perfect circular cross-section and a smooth surface, so friction is less likely to occur and the body's movements are smoother.
(Quoted from Asahi KASEI website https://www.asahi-kasei.co.jp/fibers/bemberg/sustainability/resource/)
Asahi KASEI imports some of the raw material cotton linter it uses from India. Using Asahi KASEI's technology, the by-products of the Indian cotton business are sold as thread for use in Indian national costumes such as saris. In this way, by reinventing traditional costumes in India to make them more comfortable, they are being worn more often and are helping to preserve traditions in new ways. I'm impressed with this place.
ApparelX sells Bemberg® lining. Please take a look by all means.
From here, ApparelX has Bemberg® lining.
AK1560 standard New Bemberg® Light Twill
Through this experience, I learned not only about Bemberg®, but also about linings and fibers.
I'm glad I was able to visit the museum before it closed.
We are very disappointed that it is closing, but the VR version of Bemberg Lining Museum + will continue to operate, so please take advantage of it.
BTW, I was able to shake hands with the uncle before I left.