Substanz × Peel Sphere — Bespoke Bio-Material Prototyping

Our collaboration with the German–Chinese material innovation company Peel Sphere began in 2023.

In 2026, Peel Sphere commissioned Substanz to design and produce five bespoke bags: three created as exclusive Chinese New Year gifts for VIP clients and two developed as exhibition pieces for international showrooms and trade fairs.

The SnakeSkin bag was originally conceived in our studio in 2025 as a material study exploring the structural and aesthetic possibilities of AlgaeSkin, a next-generation bio-based material developed by Peel Sphere.

The design uses a completely glue-free construction, with more than 250 individual components meticulously hand-stitched without machine sewing. Each scale is individually folded and precisely ironed to create its distinctive sculptural geometry and surface.

The project combines material selection, sourcing and prototyping with traditional craftsmanship, demonstrating how innovative biomaterials and sustainable materials can be translated into refined, functional fashion products. It also reflects Substanz’s approach to working with emerging materials: selecting complementary materials and components and developing them into finished products for brands and material innovators.

Materials include:

  • AlgaeSkin algal bio-polymer by Peel Sphere

  • LOVR, a hemp-based structural material by Revoltech

  • Gold-plated stainless-steel hardware

  • Lightweight green BCI cotton canvas and lining

  • Trims and additional components sourced through the Substanz network

The project illustrates how bio-based materials and circular material solutions can move from material innovation into real-world applications for bags, accessories and environmental fashion.

Three green woven handbags with beige straps, tassels, and gold hardware, displayed against a white background.
A green woven handbag with a tan handle and tassel, set against a plain white background.
A small rectangular handbag made of bamboo with green leaves on top, and a tassel with green bamboo leaves hanging from one side, placed on a white surface.
Bright green handbags with beige trim and fringe details displayed on a white surface.
A close-up view of three green handbags with woven pattern designs on the front, placed on a white surface.
Green handbags with woven design and beige handles on a white surface.
Two green plastic boxes with lattice design lids on a wooden surface.