Sousmotif: A Coaster Inspired by Greek Textile Motifs

A Unique Blend of Tradition and Modernity

In search for a new generation of souvenirs that would bring up hidden aspects of our history, designer Vassilis Mylonadis came up with Sousmotif. This coaster set is inspired by the motifs found on textiles produced by a traditional loom in Northern Greece, bringing a touch of tradition into our everyday lives.

The idea behind Sousmotif is to transform the intricate motifs from textiles into a 3D object that can be used as a coaster. Each set consists of four coasters, which can be multiplied to give us a total of eight coasters. When a coaster is placed on a surface, a negative or positive footprint of the motif is created, adding a decorative touch to any table setting.

What sets Sousmotif apart is its versatility. The coasters are made from laser-cut okoume wood and white plexiglass, allowing for various combinations of materials and shapes. Users can mix and match the coasters to create their own personalized set, according to their aesthetic preferences. The fine tuning of the materials ensures a sturdy and durable product.

The Sousmotif coaster measures 110 mm x 110 mm x 3 mm, and the package, made of stamped cardboard with a rubber band, measures 120 mm x 120 mm x 16 mm. This compact size makes it easy to carry and store, making it an ideal souvenir or gift.

The project started in March 2016 in Athens and was completed in July 2016. Sousmotif was exhibited in "It's all, oh so souvenir to me Vol. 4" in Thessaloniki, Greece, showcasing its unique blend of history and modern design.

Vassilis Mylonadis, the designer behind Sousmotif, was inspired by the technical skills of traditional loom users in Greece. By simplifying the motifs found on textiles, he aimed to bring these elements of Greek folklore into our everyday lives. The transition from wood to plexiglass was a creative challenge, but the combination of okoume wood and white plexiglass proved to be the perfect balance between tradition and modernity.

Sousmotif has received recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2017, which recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. This coaster set is not only a functional and decorative item but also a testament to the rich history and culture of Greece.

Experience the beauty of Greek textile motifs with Sousmotif, a coaster set that brings tradition and modernity together in a unique and stylish way.