Craftedsystems Combines Community and Design

Portland-based Craftedsystems uses sustainable felt to create beautiful interior accessories. But beyond "going green" in its material choices, the company works with local YWCA women's homeless shelters to produce each product. The production system is both local and driven by social impact, providing job opportunities to the disenfranchised in the designers' own backyards. Each of the piecesi s made from wool felt without the use of any fasteners, so they are easy to learn how to make. Craftsystems was founded by Aurelie Tu, an industrial designer who has long been committed to community-based design and women's issues in Portland.