Issue 30

Few people would imagine that the sleek black-and-white wicker furniture and fashion items on display at prestigious department stores in Bangkok have such humble roots as VARNI.

As a child growing up in the Southern part of Thailand, Manattapong Senghuad, VARNI’s designer and brand owner, was surrounded by krajude or bulrush, a natural grass typically found in the peat swamp forests of Pattalung province. Locals would flatten the grass before weaving it into common household items such as baskets and mats. A decade later, after finishing his studies, Senghuad returned home to the local craftspeople in his community to give the traditional krajude a fresh lease of life.

“I was deeply inspired by the local wisdom [of weaving krajude] and I tried to make it more contemporary,” says Senghuad, “In my mother’s time krajude was woven into mats, baskets and kitchenware. Now the brand is developing it into more of a lifestyle product.”

VARNI’s collections now range from stylish hats, bags, baskets, to furniture like coffee tables and stools in various colours and styles from playful to sleek. The brand has also been widely praised for its use of local material and modern designs.

“We received a DEmark from the DITP and also a Gmark from Japan,” says Senghuad, “Mostly we would focus on the products’ traditional design and give it a modern twist.”

According to Senghuad, his designs are often inspired by nature such as his blue designs that resemble the ocean and patterns reflecting waves in water. As 60% of the products are exported to countries such as Japan, the UK and other European countries, he is constantly aware of the different preferences of his export markets.

“From my experience, Japanese clients would prefer a natural look and colours like blue and purple, while our clients in the UK would choose products dyed in black and white,” says Senghuad, “We always research the markets we go to, and now we’re also entering China, Vietnam and South Korea.”

Staying true to its local roots, VARNI’s products are still handmade in the local community, preserving traditional craftsmanship while new designs are added each season. Senghuad has also established a local learning centre to share his passion with those interested in the art of weaving krajude.

“We opened up our home as a learning centre and a tourist attraction in the village. Visitors can see the weaving process and buy products right there,” says Senghuad, “A few months ago we had twenty students from Italy coming in to see how we work.”

VARNI products can be found at Central Embassy, Amarin Plaza and King Power Duty Free Shops.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/varniwickery

Words by Sirinuch Borsub