Local Makers: CRE8
The tastiest cookies, prettiest puzzles, cleverest cutting boards, purest coffee and most sustainable belts—all crafted by Amsterdam-based makers. But how do they perfect their craft? And what sets their products apart? In this edition, it’s CRE8’s turn in the spotlight. We interviewed the founder, Jurre Groenenboom, about the origins of CRE8. But first, check out this video to see how these Amsterdam puzzles are made.
Bringing production back to Amsterdam
When Jurre Groenenboom finished his studies and started working as a product designer, he missed the hands-on production process. Because, as he quickly realized, most of this was outsourced to Asia. So, in 2013, he teamed up with Maria Nguyen to establish CRE8 with a mission: bringing production back to Amsterdam. They set up a laser-cutting workshop where everything is produced from scratch in-house, from wooden coasters to recycled plexiglass tealight holders.
Helping young people find their way
In CRE8's workshop, young people with social disadvantages learn how to operate and use the machines independently. Whether they want to design products, get their hands dirty in the workshop, or both, they have room to develop their talents. There are three mentors, each with their own role: one ensures deadlines are met, another helps the young people learn what they want to learn, and the third assists them in finding education or work opportunities. So doing, CRE8 aims to make an impact not just with their products, but also by helping the young people they work with.
The I amsterdam Store, your go-to shop for Amsterdam gifts, gives a platform to the stories of local makers like CRE8. You’ll find us at the back of Central Station, in the IJ-hal.
