Textile artist Babette Leertouwer creates tapestries from raw Dutch sheep wool. With her work, she aims to showcase the craftsmanship and beauty of wool processing while also conveying a statement. "Every year, nearly 1.5 million kilos of sheep wool are thrown away in the Netherlands. It’s a shame that such a beautiful natural material is seen as waste. With my work, I hope we will come to appreciate wool more for its many wonderful properties: wool is insulating, breathable, suitable for both summer and winter, flame retardant, antibacterial, and endlessly recyclable. The material is locally produced, reducing our dependence on polluting synthetic alternatives. The shearer receives a fair wage, and the shepherd, who is barely making ends meet, can continue to exist."

In the coming months, you can see her beautiful sheep wool artworks both online and in the Hattem store. You are warmly invited. can you tell us a bit more about yourself?
"I make handmade tapestries from untreated sheep wool using the felting technique. My love for nature began on my grandmother's farm, where I learned to live in harmony with the seasons. These experiences form the basis of my work, which revolves around sustainability and craftsmanship. During my studies at the Amsterdam Fashion Institute, I discovered the wabi-sabi philosophy, which values the beauty of imperfection. I want to encourage people to reflect on their belongings and whether they truly fit them. People often want to touch my work, and I always say, 'Yes, that’s exactly the point.' It’s about surrounding yourself with things that feel good and resonate with you, so we don’t thoughtlessly purchase items."

what inspires you?
"Nature is my greatest source of inspiration. I love the simplicity and beauty of natural textures, colors, and the rhythm of the seasons. I also draw a lot of inspiration from traditional crafts. By rediscovering the value of wool, we can not only support our environment but also contribute to preserving these important crafts. Using local wool provides a tangible connection to our surroundings and the nature around us."how did you discover that you wanted to make art from sheep wool?
"It started by chance. During my studies, I became interested in natural materials, especially wool because of its beautiful texture and the artisanal felting process. What truly tipped the scales was a moment during a walk with my children when we came across a shepherd shearing his sheep. It made me realize how special it is to work with a locally available and natural material that doesn't have to come from far away or be produced on a large scale. Wool, often seen as a waste product, has so many possibilities: it is renewable, sustainable, and biodegradable. Additionally, I realized that sheep play an important role in the ecological system. This material felt like the perfect way for me to not only create art but also convey a message of sustainability and awareness. Thus, my love for sheep wool and the desire to create art with it was born."why is Dutch wool so special?
"Dutch wool is fascinating because it has properties you won’t find in synthetic materials. Some sheep breeds have been present in the Netherlands for 6,000 years. The wool I use comes from Dutch farmers, shepherds, and hobbyists I personally know, making all my designs animal-friendly. Grazing sheep is a sustainable method of maintenance; it’s environmentally friendly and contributes to the ecological development of the landscape. Sheep eat grass, herbs, and other plants, creating more diversity in the area. Dutch wool is naturally insulating and regulates heat and moisture, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer. Thanks to lanolin, wool is self-cleaning, dirt-repellent, and bacteriostatic. It is insulating, ventilating, and antibacterial, contributing to a healthy living environment. Studies show that wool can help reduce asthma and allergies, especially in babies. My tapestries create a warm, calming atmosphere in the home, absorb sound, and enhance well-being in your living environment. For me, using wool is a conscious choice for a healthier living space."how would you describe your work?
"My work is a combination of art and activism. It’s an invitation to pause and reflect on the source of our materials. Each tapestry is handmade and unique. The felting process is meditative. I use no machines, just my hands, water, and time. The wool retains its natural lanolin, along with some straw or heather pieces. My tapestries tell a story about sustainability and the beauty of natural materials. My hope is that people not only look at my work but also feel its meaning and think about the materials that surround them."

“Designer becomes farmer, farmer becomes designer.” Lideweij Edelkoort

what inspires you in this quote?
"Lidewij Edelkoort’s quote resonates with me because it reflects what I value in fashion and interior design. Working with wool feels natural and close to home. We need to revalue the importance of natural materials and produce responsibly. Wool is a beautiful, locally available material that requires little energy in the processing. The Netherlands once had a thriving wool processing industry, but the demand for Dutch wool has decreased due to the rise of cheaper synthetic fabrics. By showcasing the beauty of wool in my work, I hope people will become more conscious consumers."how did the collaboration with By Mölle come about?
"We were recently made aware of each other and then discovered that we share the same values regarding sustainability and craftsmanship. The atmosphere, colors, and softness of the materials fit beautifully with my tapestries. It felt like a natural match due to our shared philosophy and aesthetics."

The exhibition featuring artworks by Babette Leertouwer is available online and in the Hattem store. You are warmly invited.

Photos Babette Leertouwer: Oh magnolia