This project wasin collaboration with the Artisans Association CACO in Portugal, which was already engaged in a project called Fibras Vegetais focused on connecting designers with artisans to develop innovative products using plant fiber techniques and native species.

This project followed a circular design approach, aligning with biological cycles, as plant fibers are biodegradable. Furthermore, these fibers were locally sourced, and the production techniques required minimal additional resources, energy, and water. The project’s overarching goal was to revitalize traditional crafts that were at risk of fading into obscurity by creating new products that would resonate with contemporary society and bring added value to these time-honored skills.

This multifaceted project encompassed various aspects, including knowledge sharing on native plant fibers, sourcing, and drying techniques. Workshops with artisans were open to the community, and as the designer, I conducted visits and discussions with local entrepreneurs to identify valuable product ideas. Additionally, the project involved collaborating with local female prison inmates and patients from a palsy center as potential makers. The outcome of this extensive research and workshops resulted in the design of four distinct product collections. You can find more details about the project and how it all came together in the booklet below.