Beagle + Basset

Beagle + Basset is an eco-conscious design studio, inspired by ancient methods of extracting pigment from plants to colour fabrics. The brand’s palette shifts with the seasons and what is abundantly available in nature, producing bedding, clothing, accessories, ceramics, and home dye kits in small batches.

Features

Resources and materials

All products are made in Cape Town using 100% natural fibres, including linen, cotton, hemp, wool, and silk
Linen homeware textiles are milled in Cape Town
Merino wool is hand-spun in the Karoo
Imported silks are OEKO-TEX Standard 100 organically certified
Dyeing is done using natural plant matter
Plants are chosen for their abundance or status as alien invasive species
The dyeing process uses metal-based mordants and fixatives that are safe for soils and waterways
Offcuts are used to create smaller products

Making and manufacturing

Production is outsourced to local CMTs, such as The Sewing Cafe and Big Heart Designs, which comply with labour laws or offer ‘sew from home’ options to staff
The dyeing process uses rainwater and gas
Makes use of fallen plant matter or alien species

Social and cultural

Only collaborates with local artists and designers who share aligned values
Woman-owned and employs two other women

Product and design

Longevity is at the forefront of the design process
Pieces are trans-seasonal and multifunctional
Care cards made from seeded recycled paper are included with each piece
Offers a refill service for candles
Sells an eco-detergent

Packaging and distribution

99% of packaging is reusable or biodegradable
In-store swing tags are removed from sold items and reused
Garments are packaged in tissue paper and reusable cotton bags made from end-of-range fabrics
Packages are sent in compostable courier bags
Deliveries are dispatched twice a week to reduce unnecessary driving