It’s been a while since our last post and although we may have been quiet on the blog, we’ve been keeping ourselves pretty busy.
Over the years we’ve had an amazing response to our Eat Ethio food events and supper clubs, but the food was just the beginning.
It’s always been our hope that through our food, we could introduce more people to the rich history and culture that Ethiopia has to offer. Now we’re ready to launch the next chapter in the Eat Ethio story. We have spent the last few years working with craftspeople in Ethiopia to design and produce our own range of beautiful fabrics.
Our fabrics embody Ethiopia’s unique culture, traditions and designs and we’re proud to announce that they’re finally here and ready to be delivered to your door.
In 2014 during a trip back home, I picked up a fabric whilst shopping in Addis Ababa. The markets and stores of Ethiopia are full of beautiful woven fabrics. Some are for home décor, others are worn, typically draped over the shoulders. The simple pattern and subtle colours of this one caught my eye and thanks to its perfect weight and size, it ended up packed in my suitcase along with a generous amount of my mum’s Berbere spice.
Back in Hong Kong, where I lived at the time, that fabric quickly became an essential. If it wasn’t being used as a throw at home, it found its way into my bag for trips to the beach, picnics or chilly evenings – it became a towel, shawl, blanket all in one and a beautiful reminder of my home.
I realised that these fabrics perfectly showcase what Ethiopia has to offer. Produced using ancient methods and artisan skills that have been passed down through generations, they celebrate a slow and thoughtful method of manufacture that I am passionate about preserving.
Inspired by my purchase, I set about designing and producing my own range of fabrics for Eat Ethio. My aim was to showcase traditional craftsmanship and reflect the vibrant colours of the urban landscape of Addis Ababa.
A year later I began the search to find the right partner, that’s when I was lucky enough to be introduced to Salem’s Ethiopia. Salem operates a small weaving workshop in Addis Ababa working predominately with women artisans. She encourages them to utilise their skills and talent and provides a viable livelihood, enabling them to provide for their families.
Over endless coffees in the beautiful gardens of her workshop, Salem and I discussed weaving techniques, dyes and production methods. Now I’m beyond excited to bring these fabrics from Selam’s workshop to your homes.
Helina.
Rooted in the ancient traditions of handwoven Ethiopian fabrics and inspired by the modern day vibrant colour blocking seen throughout the urban landscape of Ethiopia, these fabrics are created for everyday use as blankets, throws, beach towels and shawls.