Maybe it’s just the jeans connection, but for me indigo signals casual. It’s also one of my favourite colours.
I’ve got some easygoing indigo cushions just added to the shop using mix-and-match fabric combinations from Japan and India, both countries with strong traditions of indigo dyeing.
It’s not great to praise an exhibition once it’s finished and no-one else can go, but “World Ikat Textiles … ties that bind” was amazing. I went to see it in June on the final day. The textiles were stunning and included both antique and contemporary cloth from India, China, Japan, South East and Central Asia, Europe, Africa and Latin America.
I’ve always loved Japanese designs and the silk ikats from Uzbekistan but had no idea that ikat was woven in Mexico, for example (or that it would remind me so much of Missoni). Some of the contemporary designs were particularly beautiful.
A week on the coast in Wales means no new cushions yet but lots of inspiring colours and textures.
After a visit to the Fashion and Textile Museum and a talk by Polly Leonard of Selvedge magazine, my head is full of stripes and weaves and grosgrain ribbon. Might be time to experiment with some new styles this weekend.
… at 317 Crystal Palace Rd on Sunday 15 May with Charlotte Clowes and Hilary Collins. Come and say hello. My cushions will also be there on Saturday.
… because it looks like the Dulwich Open House may not come off this weekend. Oh well, at least I can sit comfortably while I work on Plan B.
From left: cotton ikat bolster, Japanese block-printed seersucker check, Japanese block-printed seeersucker in shibori design, midnight blue ikat check.
Here’s a stack of cushions all ready for the Dulwich Festival Artist’s Open House. I’ll be there from 11am to 6pm both Sundays so drop in if you can to 25 Crebor Street to talk textiles and enjoy a glass of wine. Lovely ceramics too from Jane Kelly and plenty of great local artists and makers within easy walking distance.
Today I managed to get my hands on a very small amount of silk ikat from Uzbekistan. It’s hard to get hold of as is made in only one village and not much is sold. It is very beautiful. I’m going to back it with a soft and warm Japanese brushed linen in charcoal grey for the ultimate in comfort. There should be enough for just three very special cushions.
Uchi workshop 