Why The Textile Eye?

As the year winds down and work begins on our winter report, I have been looking back over this new project and thinking about the purpose behind the report. What compelled me to create The Textile Eye?

The truth is, this is a love letter to the home textiles industry. From my first internship at the Doblin Mill design studio (now closed) to my current work in fabric design consulting, this industry that has meant the world to me, providing a livelihood, connections with wonderful, quirky and creative individuals, and endless lessons and inspirations.

The textile industry is in a time of huge flux. Beloved mills have closed and well-known collections have consolidated or disappeared. Growing awareness about our impact on the planet, and an increased understanding of the perils of cultural appropriation have resulted in much soul searching. While I have no easy answers, I do have an enduring passion for the beauty we create and a hope that new thinking about business, about the environment, and about the nature of design and inspiration will propel us to new successes.

Each year I am fortunate enough to travel to shows, events and exhibitions that offer glimmers of what the future will bring. I am compelled to share the concepts, motifs and colors that hold a key to the direction our collective unconscious is taking. To invite designers and other industry professionals to more deeply appreciate the beauty and quality on offer. And to help tell the stories of the amazing designers, producers and innovators that are paving the way.

You are cordially invited to join this exploration with me: you can subscribe to receive the quarterly reports, you can sign up for newsletters, and you can follow along on Instagram.

Thank you!

-Saana