Bolt Threads releases second commercial product

Bioengineering start-up Bolt Threads has released its second commercially available product using its protein-based, man-made spider silk, “Microsilk.” The company acquired Best Made Co. last July and collaborated to produce a limited edition of the Best Made Microsilk Cap of Courage, which quickly sold out 100 units, each priced at $198.

The companies relied on a team of scientists, engineers and apparel experts to develop a soft, yet durable, hat that blends Microsilk and American Rambouillet sheep wool sourced from Mountain Meadow Wool, a Wyoming-based mill. Once the Microsilk and wool fibers are dyed, both are sent through mechanical carding equipment to blend and twist the individual fibers into a cohesive spool of yarn for knitting.

Founded in 2009, Bolt Threads says that its mission is to engineer the “next generation of high-performance fashion fibers.”