lars hofsjö recycles swedish rag rugs into torp and dunker tables
all images courtesy of lars hofsjö
in many swedish homes, generations of women have woven intricate rag rugs from worn-out clothes, curtains, sheets and upholstery. this art roots deep within the cultural tradition, and has been passed down for more than 150 years. a genuine handwoven swedish rag rug is crafted from pieces of leftover fabrics, becoming stronger, more firm and durable in structure with the use of softer and more worn clothes strips.
three different sizes
lars hofsjö, stockholm-based designer and founder of swedish furniture brand rumbler, has reinterpreted the items into a collection of tables named ‘torp’ and ‘dunker’. in their making, hofsjö has looked for rag rugs in markets, antique shops and all around the countryside, searching for a specific feeling, quality and color. the found carpets were chosen for their thinness and tightness, since hofsjö would be using them to wrap aluminum shapes into plush side tables. the rectangular ‘torp’ series comprises a limited numbered edition in different sizes, each completely unique in their quality, palette and characteristics. the collection of ‘dunker’ units are hexagonal in shape, and feature the addition of different materials like leather, stone and wood as a contrast to the rag rug tetxure.
storage space
each rag rug is unique — different variations are used on both the inside and outside
all tables are numbered and signed
edges are cut with a razor-blade
the ‘dunker’ tables incorporate materials like leather and wood
hexagons are wrapped in recycled rag rugs
marble contrasts the plush nature of the textile
hofsjö in the workshop
uncut edges
designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.