Maker's Story

**weaver, art historian, designer**

Bianka designs tactile, sustainable textiles inspired by Japanese minimalism and the play of light and shadow. She weaves by hand using natural, locally sourced materials—especially Dutch wool in all its natural tones.

With a background in art history and a love for traditional craft, her work blends design, research and storytelling. Each project explores materiality, textile heritage and the role of women in art.

A graduate of the Artisan Weaving Academy and member of Fibershed, Bianka is committed to slow design and sustainable production. Her practice is rooted in craftsmanship, localism and environmental care.

After an international career as a political scientist across Europe, Bianka shifted focus, earning a Master’s in Art History in 2022 and training with global weaving experts

Bianka welcomes you into the world of handwoven textiles—where heritage and modern design meet.

“I am not what I am, I am what I do with my hands” - Louise Bougeois.

The Process

Products

Q&A

What motivates you to make?

I am driven by a deep desire to create beauty and share it with the world. Bringing beauty into everyday life is my mission.

What and/or who are you most inspired or influenced by?

I am profoundly inspired by the minimalism of Japanese design—its purity, precision and exceptional quality—as well as the subtle, rich colours of traditional Japanese textiles.

What is your unique approach to your craft and how have you honed your skills?

I work exclusively with natural materials, with a special focus on Dutch wool.
Each handwoven piece tells its own story, speaking the language of beauty, patience and connection. As a weaver and art historian, I have the privilege of bringing these stories to life.

What is your defining or proudest moment as a maker so far?

A proud moment was being selected to participate in XTANT 2025 in Mallorca—a gathering of textile artisans and makers committed to reshaping the future of heritage textiles with fresh vision and meaning.

What is your dream project?

My next project explores weaving sails from Dutch wool, inspired by Viking techniques from the Middle Ages.
Imagine crossing oceans with watertight woolen sails—something the Vikings mastered centuries ago.
As a weaver, artist, and art historian, I am fascinated by the almost-forgotten history of Dutch sailcloth materials. I aim to uncover and celebrate this heritage and to explore its potential for contemporary sustainable design.