The multidirectional stripes on these bags were drawn from the patterns of the scales on Samurai armour. The bags are made up of traditional Japanese materials, alongside unusual, innovative yarns to add a contemporary twist. A variety of techniques is used in the construction of each bag, including knitting, hand weaving, felting, dying, macramé, machine and hand embroidery, ceramic and metal work. Vivien has used discarded items with cherished luxurious materials to reflect the sustainable practices of the Samurai, who were great recyclers. They recycled booty on the battlefield and updated heirlooms so they could pass them down from generation to generation.

Susan x