Welcome to Lunga's creative sewing shop and shop! We are happy and eager to open our doors in the spirit of the EU's textile strategy as part of the implementation of the EU's circular economy plan. The EU's textile strategy and circular economy plan are like a colorful fabric that points the way towards a climate-neutral and competitive economy - and together we weave the threads of that fabric.
The EU Commission has thrown the handiwork instructions into the air: products must be like well-fitting favorite jeans - designed to last, easy to repair and recycle. Fast fashion and disposable clothes are out of fashion - now we prefer clothes that last longer. Now we prefer clothes that are easy to repair and renew.
A textile strategy for sustainable development is like a sewing project: we plan creatively, plan, sew the parts together and finish the seams. Sustainable clothing becomes the new black. In the textile strategy, high-quality clothes are like carefully selected buttons in a sewing project - they complete the whole.
At Lunga, we are sewing a new circular economy business model together with you. We happily and creatively offer sustainable fashion and reasonably priced repair and modification services. The goal of the EU and Lunga team is to sew a sustainable future together, where textiles don't end up in the landfill, but get a new life.
So, dear readers, may I introduce the top seamstresses from the Lunga team who make all of this possible:
Anita is a Master Seamstress artisan, clothes restorer, life extender. Personal stylist and clothing designer from Jyväskylä.
Anita says: "Creation is one of the main reasons why I started in the clothing industry in the first place, and stayed on this path. My strategy is always determined by the constant search for opportunities, the implementation of new ideas and projects. My design is based on the principles of sustainable development and circular economy.
I want the products to last, both in terms of quality and style. I also offer customers many different fashion services, including fashion tips, wardrobe consultations and personal shopping."
Emma has a basic degree in Tailoring from Gradia, Jyväskylä, and a university of applied sciences degree in design at Xamki. Lifelong learner, creative maker.
Emma says: "When it comes to making clothes, it's best to create something beautiful with your own hands and make clothes that look unique. Playing with different sewing techniques is inspiring and above all fun. I like that the clothes are unique, personal and interesting.
Participating in Lunga gives a place and a voice to the makers. We give the opportunity to preserve the value of human-made work in the digital and market economy world."
Muhammad has more than 12 years of experience as a sewing entrepreneur. Worked in clothing production, textile design and as a cutter in Iran. Basic business degree from Gradia, Jyväskylä.
Muhammad says: "I am an experienced seamstress with an Afghan background, and I approach my work with a sense of responsibility and precision. I have always been interested in sewing, and I think that sewing is a good way to bring out personal skills and knowledge. Sewing is also a good way to implement circular economy.
I bring my own sewing experience and expertise to Lunga. Together, we create good things through both repair sewing and new production."
Laura is an artisan and tailor, with 20 years of experience in the manufacture and repair of clothing. Gets excited about the circular economy and works wonders. Has been an immense help in Lunga's journey so far and will join our team in August.
Briefly Lunga's story so far. Where did that idea come from? We sat, Janne, Tommi and Sanna, in December 2022 at Verso for lunch. We thought about what we would come up with. We thought about what we could do together with joy ahead. Sustainable development became a strong part of the discussion and the idea of repair sewing was already born at this same meeting. We decided to go on a journey with sustainable development, repair sewing and joy ahead.
In January-February 2023, we studied sustainability and circular economy at the University of Jyväskylä. At the same time, we developed a business idea for repair sewing. Spring 2023 was researched, considered, discussed and interviewed. In autumn 2023, we found Peka - Sanna through Tompa, a neighbor. We talked about Pekka and our side during the fall.
In November 2023, Niina was found. Niina was full of enthusiasm and inspiration from the beginning. Niina is now the operational director of Lunga and as an individual has had the greatest influence on the fact that we are here together to open Lunga.
In March 2024, we made the decision together that we would go get Lunga used to it. With the help and thanks of Brande Oy, we are here. Brande has done - in short - everything for us. We would like to thank the entire Brande team and especially Jari and Carita. Jari, Brande's CEO, has managed to inspire, encourage, spar and believe! As an interior architect, Carita has created and realized Lunga's space together with the creators, down to the smallest detail, without sparing time, effort and effort.
From December until 2022, the goal has been joy and encounters. We welcome you to Lunga. Let's meet and talk on the stone floor - together and with joy! It's wonderful when you join Lunga's story!
Opening speech 26 June 2024, Sanna Nieminen, Chairman of the Board of Lunga Vita Oy.