Wren

In 2008, Wendren Setzer founded Wren as a way to rethink conventional product development. Wren fuses paper and fabric to create durable, water-resistant textiles. Most of Wren’s paper is reclaimed waste or recycled, and occasionally new from FSC-accredited suppliers. Wren specialises in bags, device covers, wallets and corporate gifting.

Resources and materials

• Signature ProtectPaper® fuses paper to fabric for durability and flexibility
• Fabrics are all 100% cotton sourced from Zimbabwe, Italy, and India
• Batting in sleeves contains 100% recycled fibres
• Works with printing factories that follow fair trade principles
• Uses water-based inks and designs processes to reduce chemical use (for example, flooding screens to avoid emulsions)

Making and manufacturing

• Paper is coated with SiO₂ (Nano Silicon Dioxide), a non-toxic, environmentally friendly spray that makes the surface hydrophobic, oleophobic, and dirt-resistant
• Reuses the plastic sheeting from fabric rolls by heat-pressing it into bin bags for studio and home use
• All products are handcrafted locally in Cape Town

Social and cultural

• Invests in long-term employment, skill development, and mentorship
• All suppliers are vetted for lawful and ethical compliance

Product and design

• Designed for functionality, longevity, and reuse
• Designs are minimalist to celebrate and highlight the beauty of the material
• Ageing adds to the beauty of the pieces – they soften and crease with use

Packaging and distribution

• Paper bands and tags are recyclable
• Gift boxes are unbranded for reuse rather than recycling
• Boxes are sealed with kraft paper tape instead of plastic
• Orders are shipped in compostable bags and recyclable paper envelopes, avoiding courier-sponsored plastic satchels

2020 Nominee: Accessory Award