A Piece of Hemp
Collective Sonson, 2021
H'mong people have spun hemp and dyed indigo for longer than they settled down in Northwest Vietnam. A H'mong is born, marry and leave the world wrapped in hemp cloth they spin from seeds. A holistic circle of life that goes parallel with life of the plant itself.
Fascinated by natural dyeing hemp and its longstanding history, Linh spent four trips in Hà Giang, Sapa and Mai Châu (North West Vietnam) to learn about indigo dyeing and handwoven hemp. Experiments from the trips soon turned into a collaboration. Led by local women for local women, Collective Sonson collaborate with H’mong co-ops to honour their indigenous crafts and wisdom. Collective Sonson's debut collection, titled "A piece of hemp", redesigns and repurposes indigo hemp for everyday use.
A family heirloom
"A piece of hemp" took inspiration from family heirloom that are passed down for generations. Hemp is durable, with anti-bacteria quality. It can withstand harsh weather condition. In stark contrast with today's consume-and-throw culture, this piece of hemp is made to stay with its owner for a long time to come, redefining forms and function.
Each piece is handmade and goes through 20+ steps to go from hemp seeds to the final product.
Collective Sonson introduces modular geometric motifs - a mix of simplified H'mong patterns and Bauhaus principles, batik printed on locally grown and handwoven hemp.
From table runner to picnic mat. Zen tea session or a fashion statement. A scarf or a decor piece. One form - many function, a piece of hemp awaiting your creativity to fulfill its use.
