Tag Archives: natural fibers

Filed under: Anne et Valentin, Caroline Abram, Etnia Barcelona, Francis Klein, Lafont, Mykita, NEWS!, Oliver Goldsmith, Rapp, Spectacular Sunglasses, Super, Theo, Thierry Lasry, Unique Frame Lines

Plant-Based Glasses…What?!

Written by on October 12th 2012

We are absolutely crazy about color at Eye Spy.  That’s why we are in love with cellulose-based acetate frames!!!  Cellulose-based acetate is the highest quality plastic for making glasses; it is strong, lightweight, and flexible.  It is also natural , best for you skin, and the best material for intense bold color!

What is the difference between cellulose acetate frames and injection molded plastic frames?

Injection mold frames are made by injecting a more brittle petroleum based plastic that is liquefied, then injected into an aluminum or stainless steel mold. Colors are added through a spray application then coated and tumbled for shine. Injection mold frames are generally less expensive but considered to be lower quality and harmful to the environment:(

Unlike injection molded plastic frames, cellulose based acetate is made from natural elements.  Wood pulp and cotton fibers are used to create this advanced material and it is one of the highest rated hypoallergenics in the world!!!  It is also bio-degradable and from a renewable source.

This natural material arrives in sheet form and is subsequently hand-crafted using over 60 different processes.  It is soft and malleable and feels nice on your skin.  It takes on rich and complex color treatments and has widest range for transparency, rich colors, and finishes. More complex colorations are able to be produced by layering several colors or transparencies in layers and sandwiching them together. There are endless possibilities for these laminated acetates.  Cellulose Acetate for eye wear is made by forming layers of plastic into large blocks then carefully slicing individual parts, hand polishing and finally assembling them into a frame.

Wow, that’s a lot of info, but it is important when you are in the market for new glasses!  Look for the frames that will not only help you look your best…but are made with best quality plastic.  May we suggest you check out some new Anne et Valentin, Theo, or Rapp frames:)

 

 

 

Continue Reading >