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What began as a simple request for dust bags evolved into a heartfelt collaboration rooted in shared values: craftsmanship, community, and empowerment.
simétrie, a Melbourne-based brand known for its sustainably made leather accessories, first engaged SisterWorks to create handcrafted organic cotton dust bags to package and protect their products. This partnership reflected a shared commitment to ethical production, quality, and sustainability.
Through this project, SisterWorks provided 90 hours of employment to five talented artisans, Sofia, Arezou, Farah, My, and Shirin, who brought care and precision to every stitch. These Sisters, each from refugee and migrant backgrounds, crafted the dust bags with exceptional skill and dedication, delivering a finished product that was not only functional but beautifully made. The project not only showcased their craftsmanship but also supported their journey toward economic independence, aligning with SisterWorks’ mission to help women build sustainable livelihoods in their new home.
In 2020, simétrie and SisterWorks came together again to launch the Sisterly Collection, a limited-edition series of linen canvas totes and zip pouches celebrating sisterhood and the strength of women. Originally planned for production by SisterWorks artisan Amira, the project was paused due to Stage 4 COVID-19 restrictions in Melbourne. To honour the collaboration, simétrie founder Simone Agius produced a small run of the collection in her Melbourne atelier, donating 10% of sales back to SisterWorks to support future production and ongoing collaboration.
The Sisterly Collection featured screen-printed artwork by illustrator Bianca Balliro, a long-time friend of simétrie, whose designs honour the diversity and beauty of the female form. The artwork was printed using earth-friendly dyes by Owen and Gioia of OPM Design, bringing the visual identity of the project to life in alignment with both brands’ values.
Behind the scenes, Macarena, SisterWorks’ Process & Production Engineer, provided critical oversight and leadership across the production lifecycle. With a background in innovation and community enterprise in Chile, Macarena plays a key role in supporting Sisters to produce high-quality goods while building confidence and professional skills. Her work exemplifies how ethical production can drive both quality outcomes and personal empowerment.
From packaging to production, the simétrie x SisterWorks collaboration is a story of what’s possible when brands and social enterprises come together with intention. It has provided tangible employment opportunities, celebrated the power of women-led creativity, and demonstrated that business can be both beautiful and socially responsible.
As Simone from simétrie shared:
“simétrie and SisterWorks work under the same base concept—made with love in Melbourne.”
The Sisterly Collection is now sold out—but the legacy of this partnership lives on in every product made with purpose, every skill gained, and every opportunity opened through collaboration.
Looking to build something meaningful with your next product? Let’s partner for impact.