Mekeka Designs Collaborative Collection

The handwoven textile used on this market tote utilizes bark cloth made by two 9th generation bark cloth makers, Vincent and Paul.

The handwoven textile used on this market tote utilizes bark cloth made by two 9th generation bark cloth makers, Vincent and Paul.

Each handwoven scarf is designed by Lesli and Rachel in collaboration with TEXDA, an amazing weaving studio in the heart of Kampala, Uganda.

Each handwoven scarf is designed by Lesli and Rachel in collaboration with TEXDA, an amazing weaving studio in the heart of Kampala, Uganda.

In 2019, Rachel Elise began a partnership with Mekeka Designs, utilizing their collection of bespoke global textiles and incorporating them into a limited run of RE products. This collection includes handwoven cotton scarves as well as a variety of bags that are true to the RE style while also honoring the craftsmanship of the Ugandan textiles.

Lesli Robertson of Mekeka Designs has worked with artisans in Uganda for over a decade and has a true passion for sharing their traditional crafts with the world. A huge goal of Mekeka Designs and the RE collaboration is to educate consumers about these amazing textiles and to give back to the communities that create them. To that end, we donate a portion of collaboration proceeds to support sustainable business practices with our partners in Uganda.

To learn more about these amazing materials and the artisans behind them, visit the Mekeka Designs website here. You can even take an online workshop to learn more about traditional textile-making! Rachel Elise customers can get a discount on class fees by sending a proof of RE purchase to leslihrobertson@gmail.com.

 
The ceramic beads that adorn each bag are crafted by students of the Kampala School for the Physically Handicapped in Kampala, Uganda.

The ceramic beads that adorn each bag are crafted by students of the Kampala School for the Physically Handicapped in Kampala, Uganda.