Textile Design

These handwoven linen and cotton bags counteract the mass produced, monotonous and disposable nature of traditional shopping bags.

Each bag is crafted in Canberra on a four-shaft floor loom with yarn sourced from a family-run Canadian mill. In order to produce as little waste as possible, the textile dimension is first meticulously calculated, right down to the width of the thread count and length required. The bags are then woven in one continuous piece before being folded like origami into their final form. This entire production process takes around eight hours.

These bags are produced under the label name George, the brainchild of Georgina Whigham, an exhibition designer at the National Gallery of Australia. After studying a Bachelor of Industrial Design, Georgina was accepted into Kawashima Textiles School in Kyoto for a three-month intensive course. It was here she learned traditional and ancient Japanese dyeing techniques as well as how to weave on a six-shaft floor loom.

By applying the ancient craft of handweaving, Georgina aims to restore people’s appreciation and perception of this everyday product. Each bag is created with longevity in mind, utilising a craftsmanship quality that encourages being valued and cherished.

‘Stunning colour palette & it’s so wonderful to see something completely handmade using traditional techniques!’ – Bonnie Ashley

Commendations

Finalists Figgoscope Curates Prima Familia Totems

Traditional Portuguese burel (100 percent felted wool) fabrics in bold hues and 3D acoustic patterns adorn captivating humanscale sculptures and whimsical ottomans.

‘I love the ability to bring traditions of your culture to the forefront in such beautiful product, especially the accidental discovery of your totem pole talents!’– Lisa Gorman

Sophie Matson Købn Summer

An unexpected twist on new season stripes, this towel collection draws on the colour play of Mexican architect Luis Barragán, high contrast metals, natural hues and chalky pastels.

‘A really sophisticated take on towels. Top marks for researching & using sustainable production methods!’ – Bonnie Ashley