Matérialistes

Antonin Mongin

Antonin Mongin is a textile artisan and designer known for his innovative use of hair as a weaving material. After earning a Master’s degree in Textiles and Materials from the École des Arts Décoratifs, he pursued a doctorate at EnsadLab, focusing on the theme: “The Craft of Cut Hair: Hair as a Material for Creative Textile Design.” His research led him to develop creative methods for adapting hair to traditional textile techniques like knitting, weaving, and felting, as well as contemporary approaches such as screen printing and 3D printing.

In 2021, Mongin opened his own workshop, where he creates bespoke pieces for a variety of clients, including individuals, hair stylists, haute couture houses (accessories and leather goods), jewellery designers, and interior decorators. His designs feature materials like hair, horsehair, sisal, and raffia fibers, crafted into custom items such as lighting fixtures and room dividers.

Mongin collects hair through donations, which he then processes using weaving, knitting, or Jacquard looms. Each of his creations is unique, reflecting the distinct qualities of the hair used. Embracing hair as a plentiful natural fiber, he also found a way to repurpose small or split ends by developing hair powder. This versatile material is used across many of his projects, enabling him to create filaments, print textile patterns, and even produce jewellery through 3D printing.