The Best British Textile Designers

Textile manufacturing holds a significant place in Britain's history and continues to thrive today, thanks to a diverse array of homegrown fabric and textile designers. These designers are instrumental in preserving the crafts, skills, traditions, and quality that define the British textiles industry. For individuals looking to update their homes, whether through reupholstering furniture, refreshing window treatments, or revitalizing sofa cushions, engaging with these British designers offers an opportunity to support local craftsmanship and businesses, aligning with contemporary trends in sustainability and upcycling. Leading British textile designers draw inspiration from various sources, ranging from historical movements like the British Arts & Crafts to global cultures and natural environments. Ellen Merchant, for instance, blends William Morris's aesthetic with her unique perspective, creating hand-drawn botanical forms using traditional craft skills. Chelsea Gem, founded in Chelsea, produces abstract fabrics and wallpapers inspired by local life, all hand-drawn, cut, and printed using natural, sustainable, and locally sourced materials. Chelsea Textiles, established by Monica Perlhagen, specializes in recreating antique embroidery and incorporating authentic materials for traditional interiors, with collections that also feature Scandinavian influences and collaborations with renowned designers and hotels. Christopher Farr Cloth is recognized for its commitment to high-quality materials and traditional craftsmanship, offering playful and colorful designs influenced by diverse cultures and 20th-century artists. Clovelly Cloth draws from Victorian botanicals and the Arts and Crafts era, producing hand screen-printed designs in gentle mineral colorways that also extend to wallpapers. Cole & Son, founded in 1873, is celebrated for its bold and imaginative wallpapers and fabrics, characterized by vibrant patterns, colors, and global influences. Colefax & Fowler, a leading name in British textile manufacturing since the 1930s, balances traditional English roots with evolving designs, offering a wide range of fabrics and wallpapers beloved by interior designers. Designers Guild, founded by Tricia Guild in the 1970s, is a favorite for its versatile and stylish designs, such as the Minakari collection, which reinterprets florals with glamorous jacquards and printed velvets. Fermoie, launched by Farrow & Ball founders, uses natural dyes for its collections, emphasizing sustainability with natural raw materials and eco-friendly packaging. George Smith, a renowned furniture maker, also offers responsibly sourced, sustainable, and British-made upholstery fabrics with classic, understated designs. GP & J Baker, a Royal Warrant holder since 1882, boasts an extensive archive of designs from leading arts and crafts designers, skillfully adapted for modern tastes. House of Hackney, created by Frieda Gormley and Javvy M Royle, is known for its quirky, colorful, and distinctive patterns, often collaborating with other creatives. Jessica Osborne's fabrics are inspired by wild and natural environments, featuring vibrant, repetitive patterns printed on 100 percent linen. Madeaux produces charming fabrics and wallcoverings inspired by vintage tapestries and British wildlife. Nina Campbell's textiles are easily identifiable by their playful, feminine patterns and timeless appeal, ranging from traditional florals to bold contemporary designs. Osborne & Little, a brand since the 1960s, is celebrated for its imaginative approach, quality, and creative innovation, offering a mix of contemporary and classic designs. Parker & Jules, founded by Nancy Parker and Juliet O’Carroll, creates fabrics inspired by traditional British homes and diverse global influences, using pattern and maximalism to re-energize interiors. Penny Morrison's distinctive, characterful patterns are a staple in stylish homes, with collaborations that expand her extensive portfolio of bright colorways. Rapture & Wright specializes in hand-printed designs, utilizing traditional craft methods and operating a sustainable printworks. Rose Uniacke offers an organic and recycled fabric range, inspired by William Morris and 1920s patterns, with a focus on environmental principles. Sanderson, established in 1860, is known for its elegant hand-drawn designs, bold floral patterns, and highly pigmented colors, drawing inspiration from the English countryside and global influences. Soane Britain offers a range of furniture, upholstery, lighting, and distinctive fabrics and wallpapers, often inspired by antique textiles and made in British mills using traditional methods like block and screen printing, with custom service options available. #BritishTextileDesigners #InteriorDesign #FabricDesign #HomeDecor #SustainableTextiles #Craftsmanship #Upholstery #Wallcoverings

The article highlights 15 unique UK fabric shops and designers, moving beyond mainstream options to showcase artisan and distinctive fabric designs for home interiors. These selections cater to a wide range of tastes, from traditional country styles to eclectic prints, hand block-printed motifs, and sustainable options, providing inspiration for upholstery, curtains, cushions, and other soft furnishings. The aim is to introduce readers to designers and shops that offer unique aesthetic qualities and ethical production methods that might not be commonly known. St Jude's is featured for its artist-designed fabrics and wallpapers, including works by Mark Hearld, Angie Lewin, and Emily Sutton, making it suitable for those seeking unique prints. Kate Forman is recommended for traditional, vintage-style floral linens, ideal for country living rooms or bedrooms. Molly Mahon specializes in cheerful block prints, encouraging the mixing of various patterns for a vibrant interior. Susie Watson Designs offers a cohesive palette with prints ranging from florals to animal motifs, designed for easy incorporation into daily life with a muted and pastel color scheme. Madder Cutch & Co stands out for its commitment to sustainability, printing linens with natural pigments and plant extract dyes in a garden studio, also offering cushions and fabric accessories. Fanny Shorter reimagines botanical prints with maximalist fabrics for those desiring a unique take on nature-inspired designs. Morris & Co is recognized for its iconic prints, experiencing a revival that suits both traditional and contemporary interior schemes. Cabbages & Roses caters to vintage enthusiasts with understated designs, including faded floral linens and timeless stripes, perfect for period properties. Tori Murphy presents timeless style through stripes and geometric patterns, woven in a traditional Lancashire mill, ensuring durability and enduring appeal. Sam Wilson provides whimsical printed fabrics based on linocut designs, offering an understated way to integrate nature into interiors. Rapture & Wright is noted for its bold, hand-printed fabrics, featuring Moorish-inspired geometrics and the 'Walled Garden' print, ideal for making an impact. Sylvia & Margot specializes in cushions with intricate florals and birds, based on artist Rebecca's hand-carved linocuts. Ian Mankin is highlighted for its extensive collection of stripes and checks in cottons, linens, and wools, all woven in a historic Lancashire mill, offering a wide variety for different preferences. Cloth & Clover offers Scottish-milled linen mixes that evoke a traditional style, suitable for older properties or adding historic charm. Finally, Pippa Blacker Interiors provides elegant, nature-inspired fabrics and wallpapers based on Pippa's sketches and paintings, all made in the UK, with an option for a made-to-measure service for various soft furnishings. Each selection emphasizes distinctiveness, quality, and specific aesthetic appeals to guide consumers in their fabric choices. #FabricShopsUK #HomeInteriors #FabricDesigners #UpholsteryFabrics #CurtainFabrics #CushionFabrics #ArtisanFabrics #SustainableFabrics #VintageStyle

This article highlights some of the leading interior designers in Britain who excel in blending the classic English Country House style with modern living requirements. The designers featured are known for their distinct approaches, ranging from opulent traditional designs to fresh, contemporary interpretations. Alidad Mahloudji, known professionally as Alidad, specializes in grand country-house aesthetics, as showcased in his Legend Room at WOW!house, which featured richly layered and inviting styles. Eadie & Crole, founded by Sophie Eadie and Fi Crole, create elegant interiors using subtle hues, natural textures, antiques, and contemporary art, also offering a collection of furniture, fabrics, and wallpapers. Edward Bulmer, an interior designer and architectural historian, focuses on heritage building restoration and environmental sustainability, using his own natural paint line. His projects include his Queen Anne home and work at Pitshill and Althorp. Nels Crosthwaite Eyre of Eyre Interiors is praised for her light and bright interpretation of English country-house style, suitable for new generations. She integrates practicality for family life with vintage textiles, art, and antique furniture. Guy Goodfellow, with over two decades of experience, designs classic interiors by combining heritage architecture knowledge with an eye for color and comfort, now collaborating with creative director Steven Rodel. His collection of fabrics and wallpapers is inspired by historic textiles. Isabella Worsley, based in London, runs a studio known for its confident use of color and pattern, celebrating British artists and craftspeople in both residential and commercial projects. Janine Stone & Co. offers a comprehensive service encompassing architecture, interior design, construction, and project management for private residences, focusing on timeless designs tailored to client lifestyles. Kit Kemp, co-founder of Firmdale Hotels, is admired for her colorful and inviting interiors. Her design studio, which includes her daughters, undertakes residential projects globally and collaborates with various design brands. Lonika Chande specializes in multi-faceted interiors for young families, blending color, texture, and pattern with practicality, often incorporating antiques and modern elements. Lucy Cunningham brings new life to classic English country-house style through pattern, color, interesting textiles, and antiques. Lucy Elworthy, a former decoration editor, designs timeless rooms that appear to have evolved over time, often collaborating with architect John Comparelli. Max Rollitt, an interior designer, furniture-maker, and antiques dealer, is recognized for his distinctive style that combines antique originals with his bespoke furniture. Nina Campbell, an OBE recipient, is involved in diverse projects including care homes and pubs, and has ongoing collaborations for rugs, tiles, fabrics, and homewares. Her eponymous shop offers chic tableware and accessories. Oliver Laws, led by Guy Oliver, focuses on elegant and timeless interiors that highlight bespoke craftsmanship, with projects including the Connaught hotel renovation. Bee Osborn of Osborn Interiors creates restful interiors that emphasize natural materials and an 'organic luxury' aesthetic. Pippa Paton Design is known for transforming historic properties in the Cotswolds into inviting modern spaces by combining spatial planning with natural beauty. Rita Konig blends traditional decoration with a fresh, modern verve, working in the UK and US, and has launched a fabric and wallpaper collection. The practice of Robert Kime, now headed by Orlando Atty, continues to create traditional yet unstuffy interiors filled with antiques and colorful textiles. Sean Symington, a rising designer, blends a building's character with elegant style, often mixing antiques with modern pieces. Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler, a venerable firm founded in the 1930s, is known for quintessentially English style and undertakes diverse projects worldwide. Sims Hilditch offers a fresh take on English country-house style, working on projects including show apartments and country estates. Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill of Spencer-Churchill Designs specializes in grand English country-house style, drawing inspiration from Blenheim Palace. Susie Atkinson of Studio Atkinson creates contemporary interiors with understated luxury for private houses and boutique hotels. Thorp, celebrating its 40th anniversary, provides full architecture, interior design, and project management services for an international clientele. James Thurstan Waterworth of Thurstan brings history to life through antique finds and aged materials, creating atmospheric interiors. Todhunter Earle Interiors, led by Emily Todhunter and Kate Earle, is highly regarded for imaginative designs that balance contemporary living with historic houses. Turner Pocock, led by Bunny Turner and Emma Pocock, is admired for its creativity and confident use of color and pattern in various residential projects. Veere Grenney Associates' interiors are rooted in classical tradition, with projects spanning the UK, Switzerland, Italy, and the Middle East. Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors is known for designing large country properties with a classic, colorfully eclectic style. #InteriorDesign #BritishDesigners #CountryHouseStyle #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeDecoration #TimelessDesign #Renovation #SustainableDesign

In an increasingly commoditized market flooded with generic products, establishing a unique brand identity and achieving customer recognition is paramount for designers. Textile designer Beatrice Larkin has successfully cultivated a signature style in her woven textiles, accessories, and interior products, making her designs instantly recognizable through their distinctive blurred edges and broken geometrics. Her creative process begins with hand-drawn sketches, where the initial marks, intricate patterns, and blotches made with pen and ink are deliberately preserved and celebrated in the finished fabric. This artistic approach ensures a consistent aesthetic across all her woven creations. The production of Larkin's textiles involves a collaborative effort with skilled manufacturers in the north of England. She works with a Jacquard mill in Lancashire to produce small runs of her woven designs, which are then washed and finished in the Yorkshire Dales. The process begins in her Margate studio, where she engages in extensive mark-making with inks, envisioning the final product's scale and application. These initial designs are then refined using Photoshop to determine fabric repeats and optimal sizing. Currently, her collection features two primary materials: fine Merino wool, typically used for throws, cushions, and accessories, and recycled cotton, a more robust option suitable for cushions, upholstery, and curtains. The Merino wool, known for its softness, is sourced from spinners in Italy. Similarly, the recycled cotton collection utilizes rejected fabrics from the clothing industry, which are re-spun and repurposed, also originating from Italian spinners. These yarns are then sent to the Lancashire mill for weaving, brushing, and washing before being returned to Larkin. The final products are then sewn either in her studio or by local Margate makers, though fabric is also available for purchase by the meter. This meticulous production chain underscores her commitment to quality and sustainable practices. Beatrice Larkin's entrepreneurial journey recently received significant recognition with the Start Up Award as part of the Women’s Launch Lab Incubator 2024. As one of ten female entrepreneurs selected from hundreds of applicants, she participated in an intensive three-day program. This program provided access to expertise from innovative female entrepreneurs, growth and marketing strategists, and public-speaking coaches. The experience culminated in pitching her business to venture capitalists and angel investors, including notable figures such as Alison Cork MBE, Akshata Murty, and Judy Naake MBE. Larkin emphasized that this experience offered valuable perspective and a significant confidence boost. Her business was founded in 2013, immediately following her Master's degree from the Royal College of Art, where her final collection garnered interest from prominent buyers like Heal’s. After graduating, she sought a British mill capable of producing her designs at scale. In 2015, Daylesford Organic provided funding for her initial fabric run, which was woven in the Cotswolds and Yorkshire. This collection was sold at Daylesford and served as a crucial launchpad for future manufacturing endeavors. By spring 2017, she began selling at Heal’s and unveiled her first collection at Clerkenwell Design Week. Larkin's immersion in the fabrics industry was a natural progression, deeply influenced by her upbringing. Her father owned Gordon Larkin Fine Wallpaper & Fabric in Canterbury, and her mother was also a textile designer, ensuring a household constantly surrounded by fabrics. Childhood memories of accompanying her father to design shows in Chelsea Harbour and exploring fabric showrooms further solidified her connection to the industry. She attributes her entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to forge her own path to observing her parents' lifestyle as business owners. Three years ago, Larkin relocated to Margate, drawn by its vibrant creative community. Since then, she has expanded her client base, with local stockists including Turner Contemporary and Harbour & Tide. Her brand, Beatrice Larkin, has also been embraced by renowned establishments such as Made, Studio Ashby, Conran and Partners, Tate Modern, and Piglet in Bed. Her journey reflects a blend of inherited passion, formal education, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision for her brand's aesthetic and ethical production. #TextileDesign #BeatriceLarkin #MargateDesign #WovenTextiles #InteriorProducts #SustainableMaterials #BritishManufacturing #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness

This article celebrates the centenary of Lucienne Day, a pivotal figure in post-war British design, renowned for her vibrant, modernist textile designs. Lucienne Day, born on January 5, 1917, in Croydon, south London, studied at Croydon School of Art and the Royal College of Art (RCA) in the late 1930s, where she met her future husband, furniture designer Robin Day. Her RCA diploma show featured hand-block and screen-printed bold repeats, displayed alongside her husband's furniture, illustrating a nascent collaboration that would define both their careers. While their works often complemented each other, Lucienne Day forged a distinctive path in textiles, driven by a resolute modernist vision. Paula Day, Lucienne's daughter and director of the Robin and Lucienne Day Foundation, draws parallels between her mother's enduring influence and that of William Morris, highlighting the timeless quality of Lucienne's work. Paula suggests that Day's designs possess a "startling power and originality" that distinguishes them from many retro-style patterns. Lucienne Day sought to invigorate the textile industry with fresh, contemporary designs, drawing inspiration from modern artists such as Paul Klee, Joan Miró, and Alexander Calder, as well as decorative traditions from her studies at the V&A Museum. Plant forms, for example, consistently reappeared throughout her body of work. Her breakthrough came with 'Calyx', a stylized floral textile design launched at the 1951 Festival of Britain. This design, mixing muted and acid colors, was a radical departure in pattern aesthetics. Despite initial skepticism from Heal's fabrics director Tom Worthington, 'Calyx' proved immensely successful, leading to a two-decade-long collaboration with Heal's, during which she produced approximately 70 patterns for the brand. 'Calyx' remains in production today, a testament to its enduring appeal. Lucienne Day's style was characterized by continuous evolution, a responsiveness to fashion trends without merely following them, and an exploration of new artistic techniques. Early 1950s designs, such as 'Dandelion Clocks' and 'Trio', showcased quirky motifs rendered with fine black lines on solid colored backgrounds. Later, she experimented with monoprint techniques, creating textured effects through drawings on acetate sheets applied to tissue paper collages, as seen in 'Cadenza' and 'Night and Day'. Her architectural designs of the mid-1970s, including 'Apex' and 'Lucienne', led to her invention of "silk mosaics," a new textile medium using one-centimeter squares of richly colored silk to form strong abstract patterns. Among her vast portfolio, Paula Day finds 'Night and Day', a tea towel designed for Irish linen manufacturer Thomas Somerset in 1961, particularly poignant. This design, which perfectly balances a strong monoprint drawing of an owl with textured paper sun rays, symbolizes the relationship between her parents. Over her 60-year career, Lucienne Day collaborated with numerous prominent brands, including Liberty, John Lewis, Cole & Son, and Rosenthal, applying her distinctive flair to fabrics, wallpapers, carpets, homeware, and ceramics. Her unique combination of color, line, form, and composition created a recognizable style that continues to resonate decades later. Lucienne Day received significant accolades, becoming the first woman to be made master of Royal Designers for Industry in 1987 and awarded an OBE in 2004. She passed away in 2010 at the age of 93. In commemoration of her centenary, the Robin and Lucienne Day Foundation has released 100 previously unseen images of her work, which are featured on a 'Lucienne Day 100' poster and will be showcased in exhibitions, events, and awards throughout 2017. #LucienneDay #TextileDesign #ModernistDesign #BritishDesign #PostWarDesign #PatternDesign #MidCentury #DesignCentenary #DesignIcon

Humphries Weaving, a prominent British manufacturer, specializes in custom jacquard fabrics, offering bespoke weaving services tailored to specific project briefs. Their approach allows for customization in color, design, and composition. The company prioritizes design excellence and integrity, leveraging extensive knowledge, a rich archive, and technical expertise to produce fabrics for a diverse clientele. This includes prestigious institutions such as Royal Palaces and Historic Houses. While they predominantly focus on historical furnishings, Humphries Weaving also collaborates with contemporary interior design firms and provides fabrics for ceremonial gowns. A notable example of their work involves the authentic restoration of a listed building in Middelburg, The Netherlands. The client, engaged in researching historical fabric wall coverings, found Humphries Weaving's direct-to-customer approach appealing. They selected an 18th-century "Perquisite" damask from a range of gold and cream samples to create custom fabric, which was then woven in Sudbury, Suffolk. The clients undertook the installation of the fabric walling themselves and expressed satisfaction with the outcome, believing it effectively integrates the historical influences within the room. They credited Humphries Weaving for their assistance in navigating their historical pattern archive, as well as for their expertise, advice, and encouragement throughout the interior design process. Humphries Weaving's commitment to quality and historical accuracy is evident in their projects, reinforcing their position as a key player in the textile industry for both historical and contemporary applications. The company invites interested parties to explore their work further via their website and Instagram. #BritishTextileWeek #HumphriesWeaving #JacquardFabrics #BespokeTextiles #HistoricalFurnishings #InteriorDesign #TextileManufacturing #RestorationProjects #CustomFabrics

The Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft in Ditchling, England, is currently hosting an exhibition titled "Double Weave: Bourne and Allen’s Modernist Textiles," which aims to reintroduce the British textile company Bourne and Allen, and its founders Hilary Bourne and Barbara Allen, into the annals of design history. Active in the mid-1900s, Bourne and Allen produced a range of iconic woven fabrics, yet their contributions have largely faded from public memory. This retrospective seeks to correct that oversight by highlighting their innovative craftsmanship and personal story. Hilary Bourne and Barbara Allen were partners in both life and business, and their company was known for blending modernist aesthetics with traditional craft techniques. They frequently utilized natural materials and plant dyes, sourcing wools from across the United Kingdom. Their products, which included woven scarves, tweeds, and furnishing fabrics, were carried by prestigious department stores and design houses such as Liberty of London, Heal’s, and Fortnum and Mason. Bourne and Allen also played a significant role in major theatrical and film productions of their era. Notably, they designed expansive stage curtains and furnishing fabrics for the Royal Festival Hall in London, built for the 1951 Festival of Britain. Their work extended to Hollywood, where they produced 52,000 yards of custom-woven fabric for the costumes of 452 actors and 25,000 extras in the epic film *Ben-Hur*. The exhibition, which is the culmination of extensive archival research conducted by a team of ten, delves into the duo’s work, their lives, and their four-decade-long relationship. Various sections of the show explore their distinct weaving techniques, the materials they employed, their global inspirations, their personal backgrounds, and key career achievements. The displayed fabrics, encompassing both swatches and longer lengths, illustrate Bourne and Allen’s unique aesthetic, characterized by bright primary colors derived from natural dyes like indigo (blue), madder (red), and weld (yellow), contrasted with the natural hues of undyed sheep’s wool. The use of Lurex alongside dark yarns and varied weaving techniques such as plain weave, double weave, chenille, ikat, and floats of thick hand-spun yarns, created alluring textures. The exhibition contextualizes Bourne and Allen within a vibrant, women-centered community of craftspeople in England that predated World War II. A display titled “Map of intimacies: Women’s networks of love, friendship, and textile practice” visually charts the collaborative and intimate relationships among the women—friends, lovers, companions, business partners, and sisters—who influenced Bourne’s and Allen’s lives and work. To demonstrate the enduring relevance of Bourne and Allen's legacy, the exhibition incorporates commissions from two contemporary artists, Poppy Fuller Abbott and Omeima Mudawi-Rowlings. Abbott, a weaver from Sussex, created a piece inspired by the mid-century designers' techniques using indigo-dyed linen with silk floats, and also wove textile samples that replicate Bourne and Allen's fabrics for visitors to handle. A film in a dedicated viewing room documents Abbott’s weaving process. Mudawi-Rowlings's site-specific installation, "Drawn to the Light (نور)," features long swathes of silk dyed with plant materials and printed with personal symbols, reflecting themes of interconnectedness and personal identity amidst global events. Ultimately, "Double Weave" serves as a meditation on themes of love, loss, home, and land. It underscores how the act of weaving, both literally and metaphorically, involves intertwining traditions across time and place, fostering a continuous dialogue through generations in the form of fabric. #TextileHistory #MidCenturyDesign #ModernistTextiles #BritishDesign #Craftsmanship #QueerHistory #DitchlingMuseum #TextileArt #ExhibitionReview

Donald Brothers, a Scottish furnishing-fabric company established in the early nineteenth century, is the subject of a collection of over 300 fabric design images now freely available on JSTOR, courtesy of Heriot-Watt University. The company, based in Dundee, has a rich history in textile design, though much of its business records, including details on specific designers for many pieces, have not survived. Despite this, the collection offers a significant glimpse into the company's aesthetic and its contribution to fabric design. The collection highlights various designers, including those who worked as freelancers and staff. One notable designer featured is Ernst Aufseeser, who created the 'Crossways' design in 1933. Aufseeser was a German emigrant who designed for multiple firms in Britain before returning to Germany where he died in 1940. His children also pursued careers in design, suggesting a lasting legacy within the family. His work for Donald Brothers showcases a geometric and modern aesthetic that was prevalent in the early 20th century. Mary Oliver, another prominent designer, is credited with 'London Square' from 1948. This design was inspired by views from her London flat, reflecting a personal connection to her work. Oliver's career began with practical design, as she was involved in designing models of landing beaches during World War II. Her ability to transition from such critical tasks to creating intricate fabric patterns while still a student demonstrates her versatile talent. Marjorie Young contributed multiple designs, including 'Cactus' (1950) and 'Berne' (1951). Young designed for both Wemyss Fabrics and Donald Brothers. Her career trajectory later shifted to local drawing and design after she started a family, indicating the evolving priorities and constraints faced by designers during that era. Her designs often featured natural motifs, capturing the organic forms of plants and landscapes. The collection also includes designs where the specific creators are unknown or not explicitly mentioned, such as 'Wildflowers' (1955), 'Beaumont' (1937), 'Carron' (1939), 'Medina' (1944), 'Persian Tree' (1930), and 'Windows' (1951). These pieces collectively represent the diverse artistic styles and influences that shaped Donald Brothers' output over several decades. For instance, 'Wildflowers' might evoke a pastoral English garden, while 'Persian Tree' suggests exotic and intricate patterns, showcasing a global influence on design. Other attributed works include 'Pisces' (1955) by George Zissimedes, a design likely featuring aquatic or celestial themes given its name. Cecil Judge's 'Bamboo' (1936) is particularly notable as it was supplied to significant clients like Harland and Wolff shipbuilders in Belfast and the General Dental Council in London, illustrating the broad application of Donald Brothers' fabrics in various commercial and institutional settings. These designs underscore the functional and decorative aspects of the fabrics, used not only in homes but also in public and commercial spaces. The availability of these samples provides valuable insight into the history of textile design, the evolution of interior aesthetics, and the careers of individual designers during the 20th century. Researchers and enthusiasts can explore the collection to understand artistic trends, material culture, and the industrial production of textiles in Scotland. #FabricSamples #TextileDesign #ScottishTextiles #DonaldBrothers #HeriotWattUniversity #InteriorDesignHistory #FurnishingFabrics #MidCenturyDesign #DesignHistory

This article highlights 21 exceptional craftspeople in Britain, as recommended by leading designers and architects featured in Country Life's Top 100 list. The selection emphasizes the critical role of collaboration and specialized skills in successful architectural and interior design projects, showcasing experts whose breadth and depth of experience significantly contribute to outstanding outcomes. The featured craftspeople span a wide array of disciplines. Tom Rennie, a carpenter and joiner, is lauded for his skill, particularly in working with ash. Ceramicists Katrin Moye and George Bronwin are praised for their exceptional and beautiful pieces, while Martha Freud's delicate and intricately inscribed porcelain ceramics are noted for their unique beauty and the joy they bring to special commissions. Edward Bulmer recommends Tom Kennedy for his mastery of scagliola, a 17th-century plasterwork technique. Fretton Handley's Clunie Fretton is recognized as a highly accomplished and versatile sculptor, carver, and gilder, celebrated for both new creations and exemplary restoration work. The Weald & Downland Living Museum is commended for its efforts in preserving traditional crafts, serving as a vital resource for knowledge and inspiration. Hot Metal Toby, known for Hot Metal Engineering, is the go-to expert for steel fabrication, capable of transforming vague concepts into practical designs, with a portfolio that includes significant work at RHS Wisley and Hyde Hall. Kevin Smith of Conservation Leadwork is recommended for his expertise in decorative and architectural lead pieces. Torc Pots is highlighted for its niche in grand-scale, contemporary planters that can complement even period homes, while Marshall Brass is presented as a reliable source for traditional ironmongery. Soane Britain receives accolades for its beautifully crafted, UK-made pieces that achieve a rare balance of uniqueness and timelessness. For joinery and cabinetry, Alex Cottrell of Llangollen Joinery is noted for immaculate work, with Lopen Joinery and Scope Joinery recommended for larger projects. Robert George, a wood artist and arborist, creates incredible one-off vessels and expressive furniture from carefully sourced timber. The Garden Trellis Co. is recognized for its passionate craftspeople and top-end products. Rupert Bevan and his team of furniture-makers are celebrated for their talent and their ability to inspire new material experimentation. Libby Russell recommends Jay Davey for woven willow work and Oxford Planters for superior wooden planters and garden furniture. Cotswold Decorative Ironworkers are long-standing collaborators, creating bespoke garden gates and railings. Darek Dziedzic of Unique Construction (London) is highlighted as an expert cabinet maker. Barley Studio in York is praised for its exquisite artistry and skill in stained glass. Francis Stacey is a master of finishing, excelling in perfectionist plastering and decorative effects using traditional methods. Johanna Welsh, a third-generation Suffolk pargetter, brings freshness and vigor to freehand ornamental plasterwork, often inspired by nature to bring ceilings and wall friezes to life. Lastly, decorative artist Tess Newall is recognized for her beautiful murals and folk art-inspired furniture, which often become standout elements in projects. #Craftspeople #BritishCraft #InteriorDesign #Architecture #Collaborations #SkilledArtisans #HomeDecor #Renovation #CustomFurniture

The article details the 'Technicolour' collection, a new textile collaboration between British graphic designer Peter Saville and the Danish textile company Kvadrat. This collection, comprising upholstery fabrics, rugs, and curtains, draws inspiration from a unique aspect of British rural life: 'smit marks' – the spray-painted patches used by shepherds to identify sheep. Saville, renowned for his work with Factory Records and various fashion clients, identified a 'pop' aesthetic in these utilitarian markings, which he calls 'rural graffiti,' seeing the spray can as a modern technological development. His long-standing collaboration with Kvadrat, dating back to 2004, initially focused on visual communication for the brand, with CEO Anders Byriel noting Saville's integral role in Kvadrat's transformation into a global cultural producer. The genesis of the 'Technicolour' collection stemmed from Saville's question about what would happen if the vibrant colors of these smit marks were not washed out but integrated into the wool production process. This inquiry led to the development of a collection that bridges farming, industry, and culture, aiming to bring elements of the outdoor pastoral landscape into interior cultural spaces. The 'Fleck' upholstery fabric, made from 100 percent English wool, is a key piece in the collection. It features neutral backgrounds subtly embedded with bright yellow, blue, and red fibers, creating a nuanced chromatic depth. Saville envisioned these textiles revealing unexpected color upon closer inspection, transforming seemingly plain surfaces into 'a cosmos of colour.' This concept builds upon a previous collaboration for the book 'Kvadrat Interwoven,' which utilized slim colorful yarns within a white and grey fabric. The collection further includes two types of curtains: 'Flux,' characterized by a rainbow stripe motif, and 'Fade,' a transparent curtain with iridescent neon hints that emerge with movement, both made from Trevira CS. Three ultra-tactile rugs, handwoven and robot-tufted, complete the range. 'Flock' and 'Fleece' rugs are crafted from pure new wool, directly referencing the sheep's coats, while 'Field' employs fine bamboo yarn for a more industrial interpretation. The overall goal for Saville was to create a journey from the pastoral to the cultural landscape, reminding observers of the land and fields, and bringing the outside indoors. Anders Byriel views the collection as more poetic than provocative, akin to a publishing house producing extraordinary works. He hopes 'Technicolour' will contribute to shaping a new aesthetic language for post-Covid interiors, providing much-needed excitement in a design landscape he perceives as currently 'good enough.' The collection was showcased at Salone del Mobile in Milan and Copenhagen's 3 Days of Design, highlighting Kvadrat's commitment to pushing design boundaries through innovative collaborations. #PeterSaville #Kvadrat #TextileDesign #TechnicolourCollection #WoolTextiles #InteriorDesign #DesignCollaboration #BritishCountryside #IndustrialDesign

The British Textile Week 2021 showcases the latest Autumn/Winter 22/23 collections from various British mills, highlighting innovations in textile design, composition, and application. The collections feature a range of fabrics suitable for fashion, suiting, jacketing, and interior applications such as upholstery and drapes, demonstrating the versatility and craftsmanship of the British textile industry. Marton Mills presents its 'Derwent' range, a 100% Wool Tweed that incorporates bright color flecks and large-scale repeats, offering a fresh take on traditional tweed. William Halstead introduces a Wool/Mohair Denim, a new addition to their modern classics, designed to align with the contemporary trend of smart casual wear. They also feature a resilient twill suit fabric made with mohair in the weft and a 2-ply worsted warp, known for its clean surface achieved through a flaming process. Stephen Walters showcases semi-solid jacquard color blankets, with compositions ranging from cotton and silk blends to pure silk and wool-silk blends. Another offering from Stephen Walters is the 'Revival' range, featuring a blurred floral design with a blend of Viscose, Wool, Polyester, and Silk. Laurent Garigue presents a pastel mohair check, composed of Mohair, Wool, and Nylon, alongside a mohair over-checked tweed made primarily of Wool and Mohair with a touch of Nylon. John Foster expands its Oxbridge Flannel family with new jacketing and suiting fabrics, emphasizing the beauty of woollen yarn and a double mill finish. These fabrics include contemporary windowpanes, traditional gun club, and shepherd check designs, complemented by semi-plains in classic and complementary tones. Their Oxford Flannel collection, made from 100% Super 120’s Wool, offers graphic elegance and timeless designs with modern color inspirations for jacketing fabrics. Samuel Tweed features a classic windowpane design on a semi-sheer white ground, made from Mohair, Wool, and Nylon. They also re-color their best-selling 'Malcolm' tartan design, maintaining the Mohair, Wool, and Nylon composition. Taylor and Lodge, under their Arthur Harrison brand, introduce the '2080' range of 100% wool worsted flannel (420gms), presenting new stock-supported plains and a selection of new designs within this range. Maison Henry Bertrand's AW22-23 collection, 'Oceanic' and 'Cosmos,' utilizes various yarns and compositions of mainly natural fibers to create diverse effects. David Walters contributes to interior design textiles with a 'Bird' design jacquard fabric, highlighting an illustrative drawing style using Viscose, Cotton, Polyester, and Flax, suitable for upholstery. They also feature a 'Geo' design, 'Perspective Geo,' a wool blend (Wool, Cotton, Viscose) currently being woven for showroom lengths and scheduled for an October launch. MYB Textiles prepares for Proposte 2022 with a tropical pineapple design, fresh off the loom. Humphries Weaving presents an 18th Century “Abberton Damask” in custom silk and linen shades, derived from their extensive textile archive and suitable for upholstery, curtains, and drapes. These selections highlight the ongoing innovation and rich heritage of British textile manufacturing across various applications. #BritishTextileWeek #TextileInnovation #AW2223Collections #WoolTweed #MohairBlends #JacquardFabrics #UpholsteryTextiles #FashionFabrics #InteriorDesignFabrics

Duro Olowu, the Nigerian-born, London-based fashion designer, has launched his inaugural home-fabrics collection in collaboration with Soane Britain. This partnership materialized from an Instagram interaction after Olowu admired and posted a picture of Soane's window display in Pimlico. Lulu Lytle, cofounder and creative director of the 23-year-old British home-furnishings brand, noticed Olowu's post, leading to a collaboration that blends Olowu's distinctive design philosophy with Soane's established aesthetic. Lytle expressed her long-standing admiration for Olowu's "irreverence for any rules, incredibly bold use of color, and combinations of patterns." This appreciation for Olowu's unique approach to design laid the foundation for their joint venture. Olowu, in turn, was drawn to Soane's design ethos, describing their layered English-country styles, featuring antique motifs, florals, and botanicals, as both classic and unconventional. This mutual respect for each other's design principles created a cohesive and inspiring collaboration. Olowu's personal passion for textiles and decorating is evident in his collection. He is known for collecting West African fabrics and is an admirer of the work of prominent New York interior designer Billy Baldwin. These influences, combined with his fashion background, translate into a home fabric line that is both vibrant and thoughtfully curated. The collection, which is Olowu’s first foray into home textiles, reflects a sophisticated understanding of pattern and color. The Soane collection comprises four distinct fabric designs, each offered in 11 different colorways. The inspiration behind these designs is diverse and global, ranging from the architectural grandeur of Mali's mud mosques to the intricate details of Georgian wrought-iron architecture and the artistic principles of the Arts and Crafts movement. Olowu articulates his intention to "create a sophisticated celebration of pattern" through this collection, aiming for designs that are rich in cultural references and visual appeal. The featured swatches, including 'Timbuktu in Baobab,' 'Regency Swirl in Adam’s Pink,' 'Stencil Leaf in Raspberry,' and 'Timbuktu in Mirage,' exemplify the collection's vibrant palette and intricate patterns. The article showcases various applications of these fabrics, such as an ottoman upholstered in 'Koro in Water Nymph,' a Rampart sofa from Soane in 'Stencil Leaf in Raspberry,' and a screen in 'Timbuktu in Thorn Apple.' These examples highlight the versatility and aesthetic impact of Olowu’s designs within a home setting. The collection aims to bring a unique blend of global inspirations and a sophisticated color sensibility to interior design. #DuroOlowu #SoaneBritain #FabricCollection #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TextileDesign #PatternDesign #Collaboration #GlobalInspiration

The article details Kirkby Design's 'Underground Vol II' collection, a collaboration with Transport for London (TfL), which was launched at the London Design Festival. The collection features contemporary patterned woollen textiles, specifically upholstery velvets, inspired by historical moquettes from TfL's seating fabric archives dating back to the 1930s. Creative director Jordan Mould explains that the idea for the first 'Underground' collection originated when he observed the unique fabric designs on a tube carriage during an empty late-night journey, sparking the idea for a partnership with TfL. The 'Underground Vol II' collection reinterprets these vintage designs by adjusting their scale, texture, and color palettes to create a more sophisticated and luxurious aesthetic suitable for modern interiors. While the essence of the original designs is maintained, the updated color combinations are trend-driven. Each design in the collection is named after the London Underground line it was originally featured on, which helps customers connect with the historical aspect of the textiles, often evoking fond memories of their travels around London. Mould highlights 'Northern,' a design from 1965 by Marianne Straub, in the 'Biscuit' colorway, as one of his personal favorites from the new collection, appreciating its graphic statement. The article suggests that there is a vast amount of material within TfL's archives, hinting at the possibility of future collaborations. The collection is available from £89 per meter through Kirkby Design and was featured in the October issue of ELLE Decoration. This initiative represents a fusion of historical public transport design with contemporary interior textile trends, transforming functional patterns into high-end decorative elements. #KirkbyDesign #LondonDesignFestival #TextileDesign #UpholsteryVelvets #TransportForLondon #InteriorTextiles #DesignCollaboration #MarianneStraub #HomeDecor

Tom Dixon is set to unveil a new textile collection, named Super Texture, at the Maison&Objet; furniture fair. This collection is an exploration of various textile techniques, including weaving, knitting, knotting, and digital printing, applied across a range of cushions and throws. The Super Texture collection introduces three new product families and includes updates to two of Dixon's existing lines. Among the new offerings are the Abstract cushions, which are thick, woolly cushions distinguished by bold blocks of saturated color. These cushions are crafted by artisans in Varanasi, Northern India, utilizing a hand-tufting technique traditionally employed for rug making, resulting in durable, shaggy textures. Dixon drew inspiration from urban perspective sketches and 1970s "hippy" wall hangings for these deep-pile cushions. Another new addition for 2018 is the Paint cushions, which feature painterly prints of abstracted urban landscapes. These landscapes were created by British artist Josephine Ortega, commissioned by Dixon to produce a series of architectural watercolors based on British urban scenes. The designs are rendered onto a textured canvas made from off-white linen blended with lightweight viscose, with pink and indigo pigments digitally printed onto the fabric. The Paint cushions are then sewn, stuffed, and finished in Britain. The third new family in the collection is Geo, comprising cushions and throws that showcase geology-inspired illustrations. These patterns, reminiscent of rock formations and layered sediment, are embroidered in black thread onto white cushions and a double-sided throw. In addition to these new product families, the Super Texture collection brings updates to the existing Soft and Boucle ranges. The Soft cushions and pouches are now available in new Wine and Khaki colorways. The Boucle cushions and throws are updated with Khaki and Electric Blue options, with the studio noting the electric blue's intensity and the military-inspired khaki's versatility as both a neutral and a highlight. The manufacturing processes for these textiles highlight traditional craftsmanship and global sourcing. The Boucle cushions are hand-spun using hand-woven yarn in the mountainous region of Rajasthan, India, with wool sourced from New Zealand. The Soft cushions and pouches are crafted from Dutch woven fabric, utilizing South-African Angora goat hair. This collection, debuting at Maison&Objet;, is part of a broader launch of new designs at the fair. Other notable introductions include spherical glass pendant lamps by Sebastian Herkner for German brand Pulpo and a martial arts-inspired table and chair set by AC/AL Studio for Petite Friture. The Super Texture collection reinforces Tom Dixon's commitment to exploring diverse materials and manufacturing techniques to create distinctive homeware items. #TomDixon #TextileDesign #MaisonObjet #Cushions #Throws #HomewareDesign #IndianCraftsmanship #BritishDesign #ProductLaunch

Amidst a surge in home sales and ongoing challenges in renovations, including material and labor shortages, and supply chain interruptions impacting appliance availability, homeowners seeking to refresh their living spaces face difficulties. Rather than waiting for large-scale renovations or delayed furniture deliveries, an alternative solution lies in smaller, impactful updates such as upholstery projects or wallpaper installations. This approach offers a quicker fix for revitalizing a tired space and supports independent, often women-owned, businesses based in the U.S. This article highlights five California-based independent designers specializing in home textiles and wallpaper. Leah O’Connell, an interior designer from San Francisco, draws inspiration from her childhood experiences exploring the gardens of the Filoli estate. Her collection features feminine florals on oyster linen or matte paper, characterized by a balance of delicate geometry and showy florals. The color palette is earthy with subtle blues, pinks, and soft greens, creating a timeless and unfussy traditional aesthetic. Brook Perdigon Textiles, based in Los Angeles, offers designs for those who prefer patterns beyond florals or seek to complement existing floral motifs. Perdigon's creative process begins with paints, sketches, and cut-paper graphic designs, with her earthy color palette influenced by the California landscape and her global travels. Her background in designing carpets for Tai Ping is evident in her work, which frequently incorporates strong linear patterns, diamonds, and re-imagined plaids. Teresa Grow, the creator of Madison and Grow in Ojai, is an interior designer and color consultant known for her expertise in selecting paint shades for various projects. Her textile line, Madison and Grow, features hand-drawn botanical prints and patterns inspired by her hikes through the Los Padres National Forest. Grow recently moved her operations to Ojai, leading to a new collection of custom pillows. Fabric and wallpaper, hand-screened in Los Angeles, are also available by the yard, reflecting inspirations from Sonoma and Morro Bay. Lake August, founded by Alexis Hartman in Los Angeles, showcases designs infused with the creative energy of Silver Lake. Hartman reinterprets classic floral and vine prints with a contemporary edge, utilizing hand-painted patterns of local plants like agaves, nasturtiums, and sunflowers. She also transforms whimsical bunny patterns into chic designs. Hartman offers customized colors, uses water-based inks on Belgian linen wallpaper from American mills powered by renewable energy, and contributes a portion of each sale to the Center for Biological Diversity. Schuyler Samperton, an interior designer from Los Angeles, offers a textile line that blends traditional Indian motifs with a Southern California sensibility. Her fabrics are designed to evoke the appearance of vintage finds from global markets, drawing inspiration from antique kimonos and suzanis collected during her travels. A Parsons graduate with East Coast roots, Samperton's work combines traditional elements with a relaxed, bohemian aesthetic, featuring patterns with vivid colors. #HomeTextiles #WallpaperDesign #IndieDesigners #HomeDecor #CaliforniaDesign #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #WomenOwnedBusiness

The article discusses the launch of Weft, an innovative online platform aiming to revolutionize the woven fabrics industry. Developed by Brooks Hagan, an associate professor of textiles at RISD, and Steve Marschner, a computer science professor at Cornell, Weft provides direct access to manufacturing for custom woven fabric orders, starting from as low as three yards. This platform distinguishes itself from surface-printed fabric providers by focusing on true woven designs, offering a unique service in the market. The project received research support from the National Science Foundation and a Small Business Innovation Research grant, highlighting its technological and entrepreneurial significance. Weft empowers users to personalize their fabric designs by allowing them to select colors, weave structures, and quality parameters, as well as define repeat sizes. This level of customization is particularly beneficial for independent designers working on smaller-scale projects, enabling them to create unique textiles without the high minimum order quantities typically associated with custom manufacturing. Users of the Weft platform have the flexibility to upload their own designs or photographs, integrating personal artistic vision into their fabric creations. Alternatively, they can customize existing designs available on the site. Beyond custom design, Weft also features a curated selection of limited-edition textile designs created by various artists. The article names Stephanie Pender, Kevin Zucker, Julia Dault, John Caserta, and Julian Kreimer as some of the collaborating artists, emphasizing the platform's commitment to artistic diversity. Hagan explains that the selection of artists from diverse fields was a deliberate choice to demonstrate the software's accessibility and utility to a wide range of creative individuals, regardless of their background. This approach aims to democratize access to custom fabric production, making it available to more designers and artists. In addition to custom orders, Weft operates an online shop offering ready-made woven jacquard fabrics. These fabrics are manufactured in the U.S. and include open-source options, further promoting customization. The versatility of these fabrics makes them suitable for various applications, including upholstery, drapery, and apparel, catering to a broad spectrum of interior design and fashion needs. Weft ensures efficiency by fulfilling custom fabric orders through its network of partner mills, boasting a quick turnaround time of as little as three weeks. This rapid production cycle is a significant advantage for designers and businesses seeking timely delivery of specialized materials. #WovenFabrics #CustomDesign #TextileIndustry #RISDInnovation #DigitalLoom #ManufacturingAccess #IndependentDesigners #ArtisticCollaboration