Spinnova and ASK Scandinavia have introduced a work tote bag made from 30% wood-based Spinnova fibres and 70% cotton, dyed using natural indigo from Finland, derived from Paulig's coffee waste.
The bag design reflects ASK Scandinavia’s minimalist style, ensuring the bag meets the highest standards of durability and usability for daily use.
It showcases three key sustainable innovations: Spinnova’s pioneering technology and textile fibres, ASK Scandinavia’s versatile Nordic design, and Natural Indigo Finland’s coffee waste-based dyes. Each contributor supports the comprehensive approach to product sustainability.
The duo emphasised that Spinnova’s fibres reduce CO2 emissions by 74% and use 98% less water than conventional cotton. ASK Scandinavia’s designs and quality materials prioritise the longevity of the product lifecycle, while Natural Indigo Finland’s dyes, extracted from waste coffee grounds, have fewer toxins and a shorter dyeing time, with the ability to reuse the same batch multiple times.
Anette Cantagallo, director of design and sustainability at ASK Scandinavia, emphasised that this collaboration isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about proving how impactful partnerships can actively drive the shift toward a lower-impact fashion industry.
Cantagallo continued: "We are honoured to collaborate with Spinnova and Natural Indigo Finland, whose innovations are setting new standards in fashion. At ASK Scandinavia, we are committed to lowering the industry's environmental impact by integrating next-gen materials that replace conventional, non-renewable resources. By combining Spinnova’s revolutionary fibre technology with natural dyes made from coffee waste, we’re demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to responsible design."
Shahriare Mahmood, chief product and sustainability officer at Spinnova, believes that using natural dyes to create the bag's colour highlights the comprehensive sustainability approach considered during the design phase.
He added: "We are excited about collaborating with a timeless Nordic brand to launch a product in a new application category: handbags. We set out to explore the versatility of Spinnova’s fibre in different applications and dyeing methods, and are very satisfied with the result."
This marks the "first" commercially available product featuring Spinnova fibres dyed with natural indigo. The bag will be available for pre-order at the end of 2024, with full availability in ASK Scandinavia’s online store by 2025.
Recently, Spinnova signed a partnership agreement to establish pulp and paper technology specialist Valmet as the exclusive supplier of process equipment for Spinnova's technology customers.
