In an era when craftsmanship and sustainability are at the forefront, Solo Handmade Carpet (SHC) intertwines innovation and tradition to create eco-conscious elegance through their carpets. SHC repurposes garment leftovers and weaves them using manual handlooms through the hands of skilled artisans, embracing tradition and transforming them into contemporary design
The project was pioneered by four interior designers based in Solo: Alwie, Robbyn Kristanto, Ingrid Anggriani and Robin Sanjaya. They were brought together by their love for the city and expertise in design. Founded in the midst of the pandemic’s chaos in 2020, the four designers initially envisioned fabrics for interior design, but then their journey took an unexpected turn when the discovery of abundant leftovers from garment factories sparked an ingenious idea, transforming these discarded remnants into unique and bespoke carpets.
What started as an experiment that was simply driven by the desire to repurpose scraps had swiftly evolved into a sustainable business model. Leveraging the abundance of fabric waste that would typically be considered as unusable, SHC repurposed these scraps into raw materials for their carpets. These thin, elongated fabric edges found new life as meticulously handcrafted carpets that echo the traditional artistry of Solo’s handloom weavers.
The name itself, “Solo Handmade Carpet,” pays tribute to the city’s heritage and the manual craftsmanship reminiscent of Solo’s traditional handlooms. Their carpets, painstakingly crafted by hand, not only honour this heritage but also offer employment opportunities and a sustainable solution to fabric waste.
What sets SHC apart in the carpet market is its commitment to sustainability and artisanship. In a time that is dominated by machine-woven carpets, SHC’s value rests on its handmade creations and the ethical use of recycled materials. Each piece tells a unique narrative, bearing the imprint of skilled artisans and availability of colours and textures.
The highlight of SHC’s carpets is their inherent individuality. While designs may follow a conceptual layout, no two carpets are precisely identical. The nuances in fabric scraps and their colours ensure a delightful variance, a cherished aspect appreciated by customers who seek exclusivity in their homes.
Intriguingly, SHC’s inspirations stem from the very scraps it repurposes. Ethnic motifs and patterns, often intrinsic to these fabrics, serve as catalysts for creativity. Moreover, the brand’s close relationship with Bali, resonating with around 90% of its clientele, influences the motifs, infusing each carpet with a touch of cultural allure.
In Jakarta, you can find SHC products at Cayenne Home located in South Kemang, Chic Mart on Kemang Raya Street , or at the Nine Square outlet in the Indonesia Design District at PIK 2. Through these stores you can get a glimpse into the fusion of artistry and environmental responsibility that defines Solo Handmade Carpets.
When it comes to international reach, direct orders are coming in Singapore and Australia, while orders from intermediaries are flocking in from France, the Netherlands, and Russia, proving that SHC has woven a web of connections across continents. A notable partnership with Two Baskets (IG: @twobaskets.au), a prominent store in Sydney focusing on Indonesian goods, has amplified SHC’s presence in Australia, attracting visitors to the factory from Sydney itself.
SHC’s procurement process involves collectors who gather garment residues from factories. These residues, often seen as waste, become the raw material for SHC’s exquisite carpets. Moreover, SHC’s collaboration with correctional facilities underscores its commitment to community engagement, providing opportunities for local inmates to participate in sorting fabric residues, offering compensation for their invaluable assistance.
The product range of SHC is diverse and exquisite. From pastel shades to vivid colours, these carpets can be a complimentary ornament or a statement piece to your room. Their signature collections are the upcoming releases of Natural and Outdoor carpets. The Natural carpets ingeniously employ materials like hemp, water hyacinth, banana leaves, and bamboo, resulting in unique, earthy designs. On the other hand, their Outdoor carpets promise durability and resilience, tailored for outdoor spaces while maintaining an elegant touch.
For those seeking carpets that exude elegance, heritage, and a conscientious approach towards the planet, Solo Handmade Carpets might be the option for you– a brand that weaves stories of craftsmanship and sustainability into every thread.
Solo Handmade Carpet
Jl. Surya No.122A, Jagalan, Jebres, Surakarta
+6288.2000.1.20000
solohandmadecarpet.com
