chialing chang handcrafts scalloping series using barkcloth

based in taipei, young taiwanese designer chialing chang uncovers the richly textured ‘scalloping series’ composed of twelve fans and brooms. the final pieces are created using barkcloth — typically made out of bark fiber or inner bark strips of mulberry trees, which is also known as tapa.

the scalloping series is produced based on corresponding characteristics of each piece of barkcloth 

through a process of soaking and beating, the bark is pounded and enlarged into thin sheets of cloth which are primarily manufactured for everyday needs and ceremonial uses across oceania.for this collection, chialing chang combines this symbolic and long-standing craft with a contemporary approach to produce everyday objects. even more, each item retains the original structure of a branch and parts of its raw surface connecting to the wooden handle. as a result, the scalloping series — made of sheer mulberry branches with reconfigured bark and sticks — develops forms derived from floral motifs which intend to reveal the natural state of the raw fiber.

every article in the series is applied with different techniques

the surface of the fan is made by constantly beating inner bark into fibrous tissues

detail of the two-layered barkcloth showing its delicate essence 

the interlacing and filamented texture can be seen on the surface

the shape takes reference from the forms of plants

winkles are shaped while the barkcloth is sodden

varying force strengths and beating skills can affect the expression

the barkcloth connects with its aboriginal stick as the handle

a gradient contrast between the clean, inner bark and the rough outer shell

detail of the broom consisting of three slender units

detail of the broom as if in blossom

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: lea zeitoun | designboom