Interview with Designer Liz Eeuwes

December 07, 2018

Eeuwes is a design studio based in Toronto, Canada. Their home accessories celebrate traditional dhurrie weaving techniques with contemporary designs and colour stories. Inspired by the iconic creatures of Canada, we have a black and white squirrel print - Tracey's favourite animal!

Handwoven in the finest New Zealand wool. The cushion inners are filled with 5% white goose down and 95% white goose feathers. 

 

What led you to become a home accessories designer?
I studied product design at the Glasgow School of Art in Scotland. My time living and working in Scotland inspired me to create beautiful products that are sustainably made and built to last.

What is the biggest inspiration behind your designs?
I love to combine a modern aesthetic with traditional craft in a way that honours the beauty of both! My joy is in creating pieces that spark the imagination, add a pop of colour and bring people joy.

Where does the name Eeuwes originate from?
It’s my family name : )

Whose home would you dream to have your accessories in?
There are so many!

Do your designs always picture animals and nature, or are they sometimes abstract?
Some of my designs are more abstract, but a lot of my inspiration comes from the natural world. There’s so much beauty to draw from.

Can you talk us through the process of creating your pillows?
I work as a materials led practice. I have the weavers walk me through the making of each type of weave we do, whether it’s dhurrie, hand knitted or tufted. Once I know the possible constraints, or construction limitations - I begin the design process. This helps me understand what’s possible, and from there we begin to test new designs and products! We’re always trying new things.

How do you pick the materials you use for your creations? Do they have a special significance to you?
We use organic cotton and pure New Zealand wool for much of our designs. I find that New Zealand wool has a great base to take the most bright, verdant colours! And cotton is a great alternative to create a different hand feel.

How do you see the development of your craft in the modern world?
Over the last few years, there’s been a resurgence of handmade luxury craft in the marketplace. I see so many design firms forming partnerships with artisans as a way to create products that are unique, well made, and built to last. A wonderful result of this is the creation of highly skilled jobs and a renaissance of traditional skills. Long may it continue! We strive to create heirloom pieces, to be enjoyed for years to come.

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