Ciphered Chainmail
Creative Director Jesse Aviv developed Free Maison’s signature style, ciphered chainmail. The style is characterized by connecting varying chainmail weaves into structured, 3-dimensional metal textiles.
There are over a thousand documented chainmail weaves. Many of the most common weaves have names denoting their geographic provenance. For example, the most common weave used in chainmail armor is European 4-in-1. Other common weaves include Japanese 6-in-1 and full Persian 6-in-1. Other names hint at aesthetic characteristics, such as dragonback or sweetpea.
Like a cipher is the bridge between language and its encoded form, ciphering chainmail is the process of connecting the aesthetic languages of weaves.
In addition to visual differences, each weave has its own structural characteristics. Some bend in one direction but not another, or have an amount of stretch or give. Ciphering utilizes characteristics of each weave, binding them to each other at angles and tensions that create the desired form and texture.
Free Maison’s Pacer Bag and Kabuto Cap are prime examples of how 3D ciphered forms can include structure unexpected from traditional chainmail garments and accessories.
