What we make and how we make it
Beyond each object, we create meaning. Not only a message to inspire, but practices that reflect our human kindness as well. We're not perfect, but we aim to be better each day.
Everything in ZENPUI is handmade in Oregon, until a couple of months ago, in our home studio in Philomath, now in Portland. Stay tuned to learn where our location, open to the public, will be. You'll be able to visit us! Here's a look at one of the last days of the home studio in Philomath:
Our production methods are small batch, as two hands create each piece. We use as much of the textiles as possible and are considered zero waste (although, being realistic, there's not such thing as zero waste), there's always a little bit, but in comparison with the practices of the industry, we are. We collect fabric scraps to be processed for further use. Here's a look at the temporary station in Portland:
Our fabrics are either dead-stock (left over from the industry), thrifted (as fabric, not as clothes) and from fair trade certified suppliers overseas and domestically. Here is an example of our eco-conscious outfits, on this picture, Lauren is wearing a sweater dress made with dead-stock fabric, it features a high cowl neck, short sleeves, A-shape with a natural waist. It's a heavy weight, cozy and stretchy grey fabric with a geometric pattern on a darker tone.
Modeled by Lauren Barger || Photo by Rachael Lovette
Our materials come from a variety of sources, we use recycled metals, all processed in the USA in facilities powered by green energy. Our stones have been collected throughout time from small rock shops along the way, independent distributors in gem shows and walks along beautiful lands, all hand-picked by the designer.
When it comes to waste, we collect all metal scraps and dusting that falls from cutting metal and send them to be processed in the same facilities we purchase our metals from. We use fabrication methods, where each component is cut, soldered and formed by hand, using tools, but without any replication system or assembly of components, this makes each piece, truly one of a kind. Most jewelry stores create molds in wax that are casted, still an artisan process of producing a bulk quantity of a model, not necessarily constructed specifically for you, but assembled from a mold.
Last but not least, we create a meaning for each piece, every product description begins with the blessing given to it, the intention of the piece and when it finds its keeper, we send it with a hand written afirmation, as a reminder for the wearer.
