Sjölin

When recalling the Mörkallen people, often the first thing that springs to mind is their distinct style. Their clothing is treated differently to most other civilisations in Askvìniké. It is not worn for fashion, but purely for a functional purpose. Any individual who is native to this region wears the same type of clothing while living there. It is generally a simple cut slip dress which sits heavy on the body due to it holding water. Commonly it will be from neck to around the knee, but they can be longer and also sometimes with sleeves.

Material

Their clothes are made from a textile unique to this region comprised of algae and the cuticle of the large native fungus species. While a variety of different algae and fungi are used, the result is structurally the same but may vary in colour. The fabric is durable, and tear resistant, but requires being rehydrated at least once per day to be wearable. When the piece dries, it becomes solid, and impractical to wear as it will restrict movement or crack. As it is made with primarily algae, it has a natural elasticity when wet which provides protection from small rips or tears. For this reason, it is rarely worn or seen outside Mörkallen. Sjölin is both the name of the material, and the garment.

Crafting

Sjölin itself is made by hand in house at Mörkallen. When any mushrooms are harvested, the cuticle or skin is peeled off and used for sjölin. It is carefully shredded into threadlike strands and kept wet. Algae is harvested from the corners of still water pools and semi dried. The process of combining the two is similar to felting. A sharp metal brush is used to press the fibres together until they are bound. The tailor will continue this for hours depending on how woody the mushroom cuticle is. When done, the fabric is under 0.5cm thick, flexible and smooth. It is then cut to shape and hand woven with a variety of natural threads, often made with similar materials. Offcuts are sometimes patchworked into another piece, or if too small, they are used as cloths for cleaning.

Use

Mörkallen often wear sjölin while diving or swimming in the vast cave networks around their settlement. They are connected by narrow tunnels or small gaps where brushing against the rock is inevitable. Being tear resistant, sjölin provides needed protection from abrasions or cuts on their skin.

It also serves as a modesty cover, particularly when interacting with individuals from other cultures. It is worn by all genders, and is generally fitted to some degree, though some individuals prefer it in a loose fit.