ɫɫÀ²

Innovation portfolio

Shimber

Shimber is a pioneering material that uses structural colour from nanocellulose. It is the world’s first bio-based, microplastic-free coating derived from deconstructed wood, capturing the natural interplay of light and colour to create vivid, living surfaces that shift with every angle.
Close-up of an iridescent swirl pattern with shimmering rainbow colours on a smooth surface.

Status:

Startup company

SDGs:

Climate action, Good health and well-being, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Life on land

Industry:

Microtech, nanotech and materials

Impact:

Sustainable materials

Origin:

Aalto Creatives

School:

School of Arts, Design and Architecture

Established:

2025

Shimber is the first spin-off from Aalto ARTS — a pioneering material that uses structural colour from nanocellulose. It is the world’s first bio-based, microplastic-free coating derived from deconstructed wood, capturing the natural interplay of light and colour to create vivid, living surfaces that shift with every angle.

Why it matters

The global colour industry still relies heavily on synthetic pigments, dyes, and microplastic-based materials. Shimber introduces a new alternative — renewable, biodegradable, and expressive — designed to meet the demands of high-end fashion, interiors, and product design.

Our vision

We see Shimber as part of a new material language for design — one where visual impact and environmental responsibility are not in conflict. Our mission is to give designers, fashion houses, and architects a new material tool: bold, precise, and lasting. By working at the intersection of craft and science, we aim to expand what’s possible in colour, surface, and storytelling.

Where we are now

We are now working with a select group of customers — including fashion houses, design studios, and architects — to test and apply our coating in real-world contexts. Our focus is on surfaces, objects, components, and collections where aesthetic performance matters.

Looking ahead

Our goal is to integrate Shimber into the most influential arenas of design — from couture to interiors to architecture. As we continue to develop the technology, we stay rooted in our belief: colour can be both beautiful and responsible, and materials can inspire better stories

Website:

Close-up of overlapping rectangular wooden shingles with dark, weathered and semi-glossy surfaces varying in shades.

Read more about innovation services

News from innovation ecosystem

Terveystuoli, asiakkaan sormessa tutkimuslaite. Kuva: Mikko Raskinen
For Aalto community University Published:

Influenza vaccinations in occupational health care in autumn 2026

Also this fall, Aalto's employees will be offered free basic level influenza vaccinations.
Bouquet of ruffled purple flowers with greenery, wrapped in paper, against a soft dark background
For Aalto community Awards and Recognition, University Published:

Send your nominations for ELEC Awards 2026

We are celebrating those awarded in 2026 for teaching, research, impact, and other work done for our community. Send in your nominations on the 21st of November the latest!
Three young people take a selfie on a sunny city viewpoint, with rooftops and trees stretching behind them.
Cooperation, Studies, University Published:

Student exchange in Europe? Unite! can take you there

Aalto is a member of Unite!, a European university alliance that gives students the opportunity to internationalise their degrees both online and in-person. Join the webinar to find out more.
""
University Published:

Take advantage of UniSport’s autumn campaign and explore the news

Autumn campaign and affordable membership for Aalto University students and staff!
  • Updated:
  • Published:
Share
URL copied!