17th-Century Shipwreck Wood Turned Into Maxi Dresses Using AI and Eco-Friendly Fiber Tech

Researchers at Aalto University in Finland have transformed wood from the 17th-century Hahtiperä wreck into two identical maxi dresses using the Ioncell method, an eco-friendly fiber-making process developed with Helsinki University. The shipwreck was discovered in 2019 beneath a hotel parking lot in Oulu. After conservation, leftover wood fragments were repurposed by maritime archaeologist Minna Koivikko and Aalto's Bioinnovation Center. The wood's inner core was shredded, pulped, and converted into silky fibers, then spun into tannish-brown yarn without dyeing or bleaching. An experimental AI program helped design a pattern inspired by wood grain and digital noise, and a specialized knitting machine produced seamless dresses with zero waste. One dress is on display at the Oulu Art Museum as part of 'Tomorrow's Wardrobe' through September 27, 2026; the other will be shown at Aalto University's 'Designs for a Cooler Planet' from September 1 to October 30, 2026. Other shipwreck pieces were used in Ahti's Palm, a hand-shaped installation by Kalle Salonen. The project highlights sustainable material reuse and the Ioncell technology's potential.