We are delighted to be moving into new studio space at Whitchurch Silk Mill in Hampshire. Whitchurch Silk Mill is a gem of industrial heritage in beautiful, rural Hampshire. It is a Georgian water mill, and the oldest silk mill in the UK still in its original building, and is still using historic 19th century machinery. Before these power looms were installed at the mill in 1890s, all the silk was woven on hand looms.

Our new studio space in the weave shed will be home to our dobby hand loom. Hand weaving plays a key role in the sampling and development of our designs.

Whitchurch Silk Mill has an extensive production history. When owned by Stephen Walters and Sons, and later Ede and Ravenscroft, the Mill has woven luxury ribbons, serge, silk linings for Burberry, and during World War II, silk for insulating cables. More recently, the Mill wove black ottoman and satin for lining legal gowns and according to local legend, silk for a scarf, tie and handkerchief for the Kray brothers.

The Whitchurch Silk Mill, including a view behind the scenes of our design studio, is open to visitors every Tuesday to Sunday, and Closed Mondays (except Bank Holiday Mondays), from 10.30am – 5pm. For details see www.whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk or telephone (01256) 892065.