We were excited to learn about Synsisal, a new sisal-look carpet and rugs made from recycled plastic. While natural sisal is inexpensive and provides a lovely warm, earthy vibe, it can also perish if it gets wet. Sisal absorbs humidity from the air which can cause expansion and contraction of the fibres and degrade the fibres if exposed to heat, light or ultraviolet radiation.
Synsisal creates their beautiful, earth-toned carpets and rugs out of recycled nylon made from fabric scraps, consumer waste, and fishing nets, mimicking the look of natural sisal but featuring better durability, cleanability, and softness.
At the time of writing there are 5 classic sisal textures available in Australia and North America, including a tight boucle, herringbone, and basketweave, each available in an array of earthtone colors and are rated for both residential and commercial settings.
While sisal has the upside of being a natural, renewable material, and would generally be a no brainer in sustainable interior design, durability is a real issue, meaning it will end up in landfill much more quickly that a product that gives the same vibe but made from durable, recycled materials.
