Newsletter December
19 December 2023
Hello everyone!
How are you doing? How are your bags doing?
This is the last week for a winter break. It has been a good ride the last couple of weeks!
You can expect insights in this mail about testing the first Macnas bag that does not have to end up on a landfill! Information about a course that is coming up and some inspiration...a short docu about the studio.
Enjoy the read, hope you like it!
Insights – Compostable bag
Whieehoeee finally after months of research there it is. The first Macnas bag you can bury in the ground! But what is it made out of?
- The bag is made out of Malai. a biocomposite material made from entirely organic and sustainable bacterial cellulose grown on agricultural waste sourced from the coconut industry in Southern India.
- The strap is made out of Hemp. The hemp is grown, spun and woven in the EU.
- The yarn that is used for stitching is Tencel. A 100% cellulose biodegradable wood pulp, closed loop production. biological, compostable and completely sustainable.
- The hardware of the bag is made out of filament for 3d printers. It is made from natural raw materials and is 100% compostable.
I have never been happier with the rainy days we have to test the bag! The material doesn’t react well on the rain. By taking care of it with wax Malai should last about 4 years. Will keep you posted!
Want to join me on this exciting experiment by ordering a compostable bag? Let me know!
The left photo is by the talented Courtney.
Information – Make it yourself!
Do you feel the urge to make something with your own hands?
Be creative?
Have certain ideas about a bag you would like?
Feel like you are very much in your head, would like to get in the making zone?
There is a course coming up! Make your own bag in the Macnas studio. Learning to use the tools, working with the materials, and transforming your idea into a bag.
Check out the beautiful bags that where made during the last course!
In 4 sessions you can experience the highs and challenges of making yourself:
1. Starting certificate:
In the first lesson you will learn the basics. Which tools are there and how to use them?
2. Sketch and pattern:
In the second lesson we start with your bag. Do you have something in mind? Would you like to use a Macnas pattern? What kind of materials would you like to use? Let’s start prototyping.
3. Prototype + cutting:
Finishing prototyp. So, you can test the size and construction of your bag before we go over to cutting and prepare your material.
4. Sewing + finish:
Putting all the elements together, after which you bring your own made bag with you. (Need more time? There is a possibility to book one extra lesson.)
Interested? Or do you know someone who is interested?
The next dates are on Friday’s in Januari from 14.00-16.00
Friday 12/01, 19/01, 26/01 and 02/02.
Costs are €50 per lesson (excl. materials).
Inspiration – Documentary + Materialenbeurs
Remember the Dutch Sustainable Design week? Jaap de Bakker walked with us for a short documentary.
In the docu you see me at Macnas prepping for the event. Curious about the studio and my work? Take a look: Short docu The Green Catwalk
For the bag designers/ leather workers/ design students in the maillist! There is a Materialenbeurs coming up. Saturday 13th. Want to know more?
Enjoy your holidays and see you next year!
x
Belinda