alexandra lucas’ quirky handicrafts
On an ancient backstrap loom, Alexandra Lucas handweaves playful packets of some of the most popular crisp brands and flavors. Attaching the mobile device to her body, the textile designer concocts a collection of five wall hangings depicting familiar fan favorites including Monster Munch, Wotsits, Pringles, Cheetos, and Walkers Salt & Vinegar.
The ‘CRISPS’ series also includes a quirky Skips tote bag and a rug made of panels sewn together to depict the curving outlines of popular crisps shapes. Each weft has been handwoven and hand embroidered using mainly natural linen, cotton warps, and rug yarn.
‘CRISPS’ | all images by Alexandra Lucas
weaving fan-favorite crisp packets from linen, cotton & yarn
Alexandra Lucas’ weaving process, both physically demanding and surprisingly meditative, involves attaching and operating a backstrap loom to her body. As she moves forwards or backwards, the device changes and morphs into whatever she needs it to be.
Embracing the spontaneity of the process and the joyful individuality of each of her handicrafts, the London-based designer savors each imperfection, from wonky wrap threads to fraying edges. Lucas notes how she is always pleasantly surprised by how the end result never quite turns out the way she expects, and every woven tapestry or embroidered rug ends up being completely unique.
In her ‘CRISPS’ collection, which will be available to purchase from 26 November, each colorful crisp packet’s classic counterpart brand and flavor is instantly recognizable, despite its slight woven abstractions. ‘[I] enjoy the fact that a branding that’s so clean, utilitarian and usually printed on a plastic sleeve, ends up taking on more character when made into a soft fabric,’ she comments.
Walkers Salt & Vinegar packet
‘Eating crisps is a pastime that connects us all. In fact, consuming a simple packet of crisps is so delicious and addictive, that we’re all quite opinionated about which crisp brand is our favourite,’ notes the designer. When weaving her ‘CRISPS’ collection, Alexandra Lucas observed that people’s emotions around the subject matter were high. Not only was there instant laughter and a warm affection for her work, but people around her simply had to make sure that she knew which crisp packet she had to weave next.
Alexandra Lucas handweaves playful packets of popular crisp brands
handwoven rug with outlined crisps, made of woven panels sewn together
Skips still on the backstrap loom
each handmade tapestry embraces quirky imperfections
Wotsits crisp packet
project info:
name: CRISPS
designer: Alexandra Lucas | @alexandralucasweave
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.
edited by: ravail khan | designboom
