Linens and Textiles

Textiles are one of the earliest forms of domestic decoration, going back centuries ago. Before the advent of the machine age any sort of textile or fabric was the result of a laborious series of tasks; as such, only the wealthy and elite were privileged to enjoy textiles in their homes and such desirable goods were highly coveted and treated with the utmost care. Modern manufacturing enabled people of more modest means to use textiles and fabrics in daily life – articles such as sheets, blankets and bedding, hand towels, bath towels, table linens and the like only became ordinary household goods in the 1920s and 1930s; even then they were considered valuable and many people called out the desired disposition of their blankets, quilts and bed linens in their wills.

Modern textiles have almost achieved commodity status since manufacturing techniques have become increasingly sophisticated. Intricate embroidered goods which once took endless hours to produce can now be found readily on the web or in local stores. Ornate trims, embellishments and elaborate detailing and handiwork that were once the province of royalty can be seen on toss pillows and throws designed for seasonal use and even on disposable gift bags and fabric party goods.

At the same time that such textiles and treatments have become mainstream there is a renewed focus on one-of-a-kind artisan textiles and crafts. Quilting, crocheting, rag rugs and felted wool pillows are all examples of a return to the origins of fabric making, all with a focus on authenticity and originality. Mass-produced goods have become ordinary; handmade artisan goods have now become the signature of the elite – the cycle has come full circle.

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