For its first participation in the European Artistic Crafts Days (Journées Européennes des Métiers d’Art), Maison Élysée is inviting two Normandy-based companies, both recognised with the “Living Heritage Company” label, to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship.
Join us on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 April from 10am to 7pm for two days dedicated to textile craftsmanship, featuring Saint James and Filt1860.
Craftsmanship demonstrations
On Friday 4 April from 10:30am to 6:30pm, Filt 1860 will present the various stages involved in making string shopping bags.
Once considered outdated in the 1980s, the traditional net bag — once a staple of our grandmothers — has been brought back into the spotlight thanks to the expertise and bold vision of Filt 1860, a Normandy-based manufacturer since 1860. Today, its practicality is undeniable: durable, convenient and stretchable, it’s a timeless accessory that’s both eco-friendly and stylish.
On Friday 4 and Saturday 5 April from 10am to 7pm, Saint James knitwear will demonstrate two highly specialised techniques: raccoutrage and remaillage.
Raccoutrage, a rare technique passed down through generations, involves making meticulous hand repairs and finishing touches to knitted garments. Remaillage is the stitch-by-stitch assembly of collars to sweater bodies — a process that ensures both flexibility and durability. Both crafts require two years of in-house training, illustrating Saint James’s commitment to preserving and passing on its unique heritage.
Founded over 135 years ago in the village of Saint-James, Normandy, the Saint James company has built its reputation on an iconic garment: the authentic sailor’s jumper, knitted in pure virgin wool. Originally designed for fishermen, the jumper was later adopted by sailors and yachtsmen alike, earning this know-how international acclaim.
Living Heritage Companies in the spotlight
Created in 2018, the official Élysée shop was established to celebrate the excellence of “Made in France” craftsmanship by selling products made entirely in France — over half of which come from brands awarded the “Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant” (Living Heritage Company) label. Since its opening in July 2024, Maison Élysée has regularly welcomed these companies to showcase their craft.
For the 2025 edition of the European Artistic Crafts Days, all EPV-labelled companies will be featured in the shop.
European Artistic Crafts Days
