December 2023

Tougher Than Leather

Jang Woo-hee, a textile craft designer, sought to explore alternative materials beyond conventional fabrics―her inspiration sparked during her overseas travels as she noticed a pile of plastic bags she¡¯d been collecting along the journey. She recalls, ¡°The colors, graphics and features of these plastic bags immediately caught my attention, prompting me to experiment with the idea of incorporating this unconventional material into my work.¡±

Pouch and keyring created in collaboration with KIA

After numerous experiments, Jang devised the ¡°heat pressing technique¡±―a method that entails layering multiple plastic bags, applying heat and exerting pressure. Notably, plastic bags exhibit the attributes of being lightweight and waterproof. When subjected to the heat pressing technique, they transform into a material with durability akin to leather. ¡°The material produced through this process repels moisture and stains, much like fabric. It maintains a significantly lower weight than leather while still offering durability as a key benefit. This is why I use plastic bags to create my products.¡±

However, not all plastic bags qualify for use in her products. Jang selectively opts for bags that do not emit harmful chemicals and are safe for the human body―specifically ¡°polyethylene¡± and ¡°polypropylene.¡± She explains, ¡°Plastic bags containing impurities undergo a thorough cleaning process. Any stickers or tape are diligently removed prior to utilization. Following these processes, the fabric is fashioned using the heat pressing technique, and it¡¯s subsequently employed to give a new lease of life to various products.¡±

Durability, for Long-term Use

The fact that they originate from plastic bags doesn¡¯t confine the possibilities of these products―when infused with Jang¡¯s artistry, various everyday items such as bags, pouches and wallets are brought to life. Jang elucidates, ¡°The thickness of the fabric is tailored to the specific type of products. In the case of bags designed to accommodate heavier loads, I process the plastic by layering it as much as possible to make the fabric thicker. On the other hand, for lighter products like pouches, I process the fabric relatively thinner.¡±

Jang¡¯s philosophy in creating these products embodies H22¡¯s distinctive character. Rather than conforming to fleeting design trends, H22¡¯s design philosophy centers on crafting timeless designs that resist the passage of time―underlining the belief that true eco-friendly products should be built to last. ¡°Before I officially launched H22, I participated in flea markets. Years later, I happened upon a customer at a design fair I had met back then. They showed me a wallet they had bought at the flea market and said, ¡®I¡¯ve been using this all this time, and it¡¯s still as good as new without a scratch.¡¯ It was reassuring to see that the aspect I had given the most consideration to had been well-reflected in the product.¡±

Jang¡¯s initiatives don¡¯t stop here―her goal is to incorporate plastic materials into diverse domains, broadening H22¡¯s reach from fashion to encompass furniture, lighting, interior design and beyond. Plastic bags are a form of non-biodegradable waste, and H22¡¯s innovative approach to repurposing them into a wide range of products heightens expectations for their eco-conscious initiatives.

H22¡¯s products offer visual delight with vibrant vinyl prints. Moreover, because of the sturdy and waterproof nature of the vinyl material, they are both durable and convenient.