A Gift for Prince Edward

HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, visited Design Centre Proto in Oulu on 27 October 2026. He explored the “Leikitään! Let’s Play!” exhibition and met its participants. He also joined children in making clay animals, which became part of the exhibition’s miniature play environments. The visit highlighted how design can bring people together and encourage participation and shared creativity.

The Duke received a selection of FabPatch products to take home as an example of design from Oulu. The gift was presented by Päivi Tahkokallio, who leads Proto’s programme for Oulu’s year as European Capital of Culture. FabPatch CEO Taija Sailio is a longstanding member of Proto.

The gift also has a fitting connection to the Royal Family: Prince Edward’s brother, King Charles III, is known for wearing repaired and patched clothes. Extending the life of clothing is clearly valued within the Royal Family, too.

We thank Proto for including FabPatch in this special occasion and showcasing design expertise from Oulu.

Photo: City of Oulu / Jani Kärppä (Kota Collective)