Crochet isn't a craft form you'd usually associate with modern design - it's more likely to elicit memories of granny making a knee blanket. But, given craft's renaissance and the ingenuity that Cape Town-based Moonbasket is bringing to crochet, it's regaining its place in the sun.
Launched in 2010 at Design Indaba, Moonbasket has grown organically. From the time crochet whizz Laura Summs joined forces with ideas woman Dani Le Roy, the pair made magic producing contemporary baskets, bowls, rugs and light shades that both celebrate and subvert the delicate nature of yarn.
"We now have a team of seven crocheters who have been with us since the beginning. Most are mothers from Khayelitsha who came to us with a basic knowledge of crochet; we have all learnt together," says Dani.
The team work from home, fitting crocheting in with family obligations and visiting Moonbasket weekly to check in.
Weaving complex patterns with hemp twine (or polyester cords based on the product), they set their baskets, light shades and bowls into sustainable bio resin, hardening them and bringing on a surprising solidity. The results are beguiling, producing delicate, organic pieces that speak to the handmade allure of craft, while their resin-dipped form means they're able to hold their shape.
The brand's genius brings a world of functionality to the traditional uses of crochet. "The original bowl idea stemmed from an attempt to make a placemat which refused to lie flat. So we gave up and made a bowl instead," says Dani.
The resin-set bowls and baskets remain their most coveted products, but beyond this they also produce heavily textured carpets from sewn-together crochet patterns. Their range of bags, with its abundant patterning and delicious hues, is also receiving attention.
To say that the international market's eyes are on this small local brand is an understatement. Moonbasket has had pieces stocked by design titans with an appetite for handmade products such as Anthropology and Le Bon Marche and has bowls at The Conran Shop.
"Missoni visited our studio in 2014. As long-time admirers of this fashion house, we were really excited. We created bespoke standing baskets for them and lights from their yarns. The result was shown at Salone del Mobile," says Dani.
They also did a capsule display for Tom Dixon's Japan store, as well as a bespoke collection of oversized dishes in soft shades for the entrance of one of the LUX Hotels in Mauritius through interior designer Kelly Hoppen.
"Crochet is ideally suited to making 3D objects and is truly versatile," says Dani. Their latest work features a more graphic pattern with a tapestry technique and a uniquely African flavour.
Keep an eye out for their Joburg pop-up in September...