Chapauw is a zero waste design studio in the heart of Arnhem’s Modekwartier, where denim scraps become stylish accessories and creativity takes centre stage. The founder, Chanel Pauw – hence the playful name – brings together her love of reused textiles, hands-on crafting, and community involvement.
After internships at Fraenck and selling her first items via Begane Grond, Chanel opened her own space three years ago. She studied fabric and design at Cibap in Zwolle, and previously worked at De Waar, where she focused on finding zero waste lifestyle alternatives.
At Chapauw, everything revolves around denim. She sources materials from thrift shops, local donations, and wholesale leftovers, and keeps every last bit – including back pockets and scraps – to create neckties, cushions, and other quirky items. The result? One-of-a-kind pieces that combine raw aesthetics with real craftsmanship.
Beyond fashion, Chanel regularly hosts creative workshops, often for children and teens in Arnhem or nearby towns like Dieren. These sessions are often held in schools or community spaces, using leftover materials to spark imagination.
Currently housed in a cosy unit, Chapauw dreams of expanding to a larger space where workshops can be hosted in-house. In the long run, Chanel hopes to open her doors to young emerging designers, giving them the chance to grow – just like she did.
Everything at Chapauw is handmade, local, and designed to minimise waste. The shop feels more like a creative lab than a retail space, inviting visitors to think differently about fashion, materials, and consumption.
Looking for a unique accessory or want to get your hands dirty in a workshop? Step into Chapauw and explore a world where denim gets a second life – one stitch at a time.
