Header: Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2023
After its success in 2023, IKEA launched the second edition of MÄVINN, a collection born from collaborations where innovation and artistry are always present.
Since 2012, IKEA has developed several business partnerships with social enterprises with the intent to design and produce products sold at IKEA stores worldwide. MÄVINN is the fruit of several of these partnerships, having been crafted in collaboration with five social businesses and artisans from Bangladesh, India, and Jordan. The collection is more than just great aesthetics, as it strives to promote non-Western designers and provide jobs for people in vulnerable communities, empowering them to grow as skilled professionals.
The collection focuses on creating products that can be produced in higher volumes and sold globally, which helps generate more job opportunities as the collection grows. Each piece is handwoven, braided, or embroidered to embody the unique skills and heritage of the local culture.
“This collection celebrates the 12-year partnership we have built together, setting a strong example of how we can work long-term to enable people to acquire handcrafted everyday items while creating life-changing opportunities for those who make them. We hope this collection inspires a deeper appreciation for handcrafted items and the effort and cultural heritage woven into every piece.”
– Maria Vinka, designer at IKEA of Sweden
Handicrafts that create jobs
The MÄVINN collection brings joy and warmth to any space with its vibrant palette and recurring patterns that unify the pieces. All products are made of cotton or jute and sourced from where the social businesses operate. The collection includes various products such as baskets, bags, rugs, cushion covers, bedspreads, bathrobes, plant pot hangers, throws, and pouches.
One of the highlights of the collection is a basket, available in natural and multicoloured designs, including a special cat basket that ensures everyone in the household has a place to sleep. The colourful cotton throws and bedspreads feature handmade tassels and patterns. The handcrafted pot hangers, made using macramé techniques, bring a touch of nature and artisanal beauty.
“MÄVINN showcases craft techniques passed down through generations, and it’s amazing to create together and learn from each other with these artisans who have kept these traditions alive. By collaborating and co-creating with our partners, we have bridged their craftsmanship with our way of designing to utilise their skills in the best way while creating products full of character and each with their own expression. As a designer, I’m proud to work with a project that helps women grow as skilled professionals and enables families and communities to reach financial independence.”
– Paulin Machado, designer at IKEA of Sweden
