About

Woven stories

Atelier Sage stands for pure, handwoven textiles. Made from natural yarns, in warm, earthy tones. The more natural our surroundings, the better we feel.

Handwoven fabrics have a rich texture, almost 3D. Something machines can’t replicate. Each piece is one of a kind. The longer you use it, the more beautiful it becomes

In weaving, the vertical threads (warp) are interwoven with the horizontal threads (weft). Thread by thread, it creates not just fabric, but a story.

The word ‘sage’ means a story passed down from generation to generation. Just like the knowledge of weaving.

Sage Sage is a story of connection. A story of past, present, nature, our environment. Everything is connected, like the threads in a fabric.

My story

My name is Marieke Wilhelmina Biemans. I grew up in a textile family. My mother and grandmother had textile businesses, my grandfather was a tailor, my great-grandfather and aunts worked at Vlisco. I can still hear how my grandmother cut fabric. The sound of the scissors sliding through the fabric was magical. But her respect for materials has also always stayed with me. I discovered the beauty of textiles at an early age.

With fast fashion emerged, we saw the market change. Where clothes came from, how and from what they were made, no longer mattered. Above all, it had to be cheap. The notion that time and craftsmanship are needed to make a good garment disappeared. Clothing became a disposable item. Nowadays, a garment is worn only seven times on average. Fortunately, awareness is growing that things have to be different.

At Utrecht University, I studied Economics and then worked in communications and marketing for many years. Ten years ago, during my first pregnancy, I developed a speech impediment. A kind of stuttering, but more stammering. A difficult period. I had to learn to embrace imperfection. Weaving gave me footing but also a chance to fulfil a dream I always had.

To learn the craft, I apprenticed with art weaver Sytze Roos in Amsterdam. For three years, I immersed myself in weaving techniques and binding methods. I then specialised further in textures and materials. The interplay of yarns, colours and structures continues to inspire me endlessly.

I weave with natural yarns, preferably undyed or in neutral tones. These colors bring a sense of calm and balance to a space, while the textures add vibrancy. Sometimes, I experiment with materials like grass, Tencel, hemp, and ultra-soft natural fleece. Recycled textiles also find a second life in my work.

Why Sage?

Textiles are more than fabric. It connects cultures, brings stories and leaves room for expression.

Sage stands for craftsmanship and a love for textiles. Craft, quality, and inclusion come together in each piece. 

Using natural materials and traditional techniques, I create unique, sustainable items that keep the craft alive. An ode to textiles and the appreciation they deserve.

Do you also hook up?

With love and warm regards,

Marieke Wilhelmina (named after my dear and brave grandmother).

Photo description:
Five generations connected through textiles—me at the loom, my eldest daughter with a handwoven scarf, and my grandmother with her craftsmanship and entrepreneurship. My great-great-grandfather worked at Vlisco.