With embroidered lettering and type made of stone, designer Léna Théodore champions traditional textures

If Léna Théodore were to identify one thread that runs through all of her work, it would be the variety of textures and materials. With a keen interest in craftsmanship, domestic arts and vernacular ethnography, Léna has found great enjoyment in incorporating the visuals of traditional techniques into her work, like stonemasonry, crochet and embroidery. “I must say I have a soft spot for everything textiles,” says Léna, “Beyond being a magnificent creative medium, the manufacturing and usage of textiles conveys a great deal about humankind in general.” We’re particularly fond of Léna’s Cross Stitch Type, the delicate placement of X’s creating a lettering brimming with history and texture.

When sourcing inspiration, Léna likes to take an on-the-ground approach, often finding ample material in museums, junk shops and nature. Currently, one of her biggest inspirations is in the region she lives in, for its traditions, heritage and “an effervescent crossroads of many different cultures”.