THEY MAY have graduated from Silpakorn University’s decorative arts faculty but Sirikan Jirajbhaskornkul and Supot Suwannasing don’t believe in putting things on paper. They prefer playing with materials in designing their handcrafted jewellery, which sells under the Saprang brand. Their bracelets, necklaces and earrings are made from brass and take the form of Mother Nature’s flowers and leaves.
The brand, which was founded in 2007, took part in the Talent Thai project and later made its public debut at the Bangkok International Gifts and Houseware Fairs, where it quickly won a following. Sirikan and Supot then rented a small space in Siam Paragon’s Code 10 zone and, before long, the duo was turning over a healthy profit.
“I don’t think I’ve ever sketched a piece of jewellery. That’s probably because I don’t see a model in my mind. Inspiration comes with the twisting and turning of the metal. Many people think my jewellery is inspired by flowers or leaves. In fact, it’s not, it just takes that shape as I work on it. We never plan when we should release a new collection. Everything depends on our mood. We’re so lucky to be doing what we love.” Sirikan says.
Two years ago, the duo launched sister brand New Folder and opened a shop in Terminal 21 to offer brass trinkets to the young set. Three months ago, Saprang moved to Ekamai Soi 10 and it is here that regular customers and newcomers can find the latest designs of earrings, necklaces, bracelets, bangles and rings fashioned from brass. Sets coated with blue titanium and pink gold ramp up the colour choice.
Among the goodies on offer are bangles adorned with flowers, petal-like bracelets, brass necklaces with geometric wooden pendants, butterfly-shaped necklaces, shell-like bracelets and fan-shaped earrings.
“All our jewellery is handmade. Some pieces may look a little crude but they are very detailed. We use the tapping technique to create pits,” Sirikan says. “Now, we try to find such new materials as wood for a new collection that will be showcased in the exhibition at the end of this year.”
Saprang has also expanded the line to home furnishings including a brass blind inspired by rubber seeds and wooden wall clocks.
BOLD AS BRASS
>>Saprang is located in Ekamai Shopping Mall, Ekkamai Soi 10. It’s open daily from 11.30am to 9pm. Call (081) 905 6681, (081) 986 4819 or visit Facebook/SaprangCraftJewelry.