Part 4/11:
A key point raised is the durability and aesthetic qualities of mushroom leather. Rob Chapman-Smith shares his experience testing samples, noting that mycelium-based material can mimic leather's feel and flexibility convincingly. Because it's grown naturally, each sheet exhibits slight variations, lending them a unique, artisanal quality—much like traditional animal leather. This natural variation is seen as a feature, not a flaw, giving each product a distinct character.
The versatility of the material extends beyond appearance. As Taylor Hamilton points out, mushroom leather could be used in various applications, from fashion and accessories to furniture, with optional textures that range from smooth to patterned, depending on manufacturing processes.