VASO FLIP-FLOPS - Jan 2025
Discover Sedge: A Versatile Treasure
At the heart of our flip-flops is an amazing material: sedge grass. While some may be unfamiliar, sedge grass has a rich history and has been used for centuries. `
What is Sedge Grass?
Sedge belongs to a family of grass-like plants known as Cyperaceae. It's a vast and diverse family of plants which thrive in diverse climates and soil conditions around the world, like wetlands, marshes, and meadows. For centuries it's been utilized by different cultures around the world.
Vietnam and Sedge Grass
Vietnam is one of the most prominent countries with a long-standing tradition of crafting and creating with sedge. The country has a rich history of sedge farming, a practice that has been carried out for centuries. This deeply rooted cultural heritage continues to play a vital role in the livelihoods of countless farmers, artisans, and workers, contributing significantly to the nation's economy and cultural identity.
Lepironia Articulata, commonly known as 'Grey Sedge,' is the variety of sedge cultivated in Vietnam. It is primarily grown in the Mekong Delta, home to the Mekong River, which is often referred to as the 'Nine-Tailed Dragon' due to its nine tributaries that flow into the sea. The region’s warm, humid climate and abundant freshwater make it an ideal environment for the growth of this sedge
Other Cultures with Notable Traditions of Crafting with Sedge
Japanese Culture
Region: Various parts of Japan, especially rural areas.
Uses: The Japanese use Sedge grass, (and similar rush grasses) to make tatami mats, which are a key element in tradional Japanese homes, and interior design.
Zori slippers, which directly inspired the modern flip-flop can also be made using sedge or rush grass.
African Cultures
Region: Sub-Saharan Africa (including Madagascar).
Uses: Sedge grass is used for weaving baskets, mats, and fishing nets.
-Cultural significance: In many African communities, weaving and the various style of weaving is an important skill and source of income, and can involve communal effort and artistry.
Native American Cultures
Region: North America, primarily around wetlands and river areas.
Uses:Indigineous peoples of North America used sedge grass to weave mats, baskets, and other functional items. It was also used to thatch roofs and as insulation.
Indian Culture
Region: Primarily in northeastern states like Assam, West Bengal, and some parts of southern India.
Uses: In India, sedge grass is traditionally used for weaving mats, baskets, and other household items. It is most prevalent in rural and tribal communities, where artisans rely on sedge as a primary material for crafting functional goods like floor mats, decorative pieces, and even small furniture.
Additionally, in the southern parts of India, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, sedge grass is sometimes used in the construction of small huts and shelters, taking advantage of its availability in wetland regions.
Because we are in an age of rapid technoligical advancement, we believe supporting artisinal work and practices is important for the younger generations to grow ans become Earth's caretakers.
Sources
r-magazine - "Sedge mat weaving – Vietnamese traditional craft"
https://www.r-magazine.ca/sedge-mat-weaving-vietnamese-traditional-craft/
Sedge x Strawlific - "About Sedge"
https://www.sedge.be/en/about-sedge/
VN EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL- "Sedge harvest season begins in Mekong Delta"
https://e.vnexpress.net/photo/places/sedge-harvest-season-begins-in-mekong-delta-4101176.html