Finding Inspiration Around the World
Kathy has travelled the world seeking inspiration from master artisans, historic textile traditions, and vibrant creative communities. Three memorable experiences continue to influence the way she approaches upholstery, restoration, and textile design.
Block Printing in Jaipur, India
In Jaipur, Kathy attended a block-printing workshop with renowned textile designer Lotta Jansdotter, exploring one of India’s oldest decorative arts. Using hand-carved wooden blocks, natural dyes, and traditional printing methods, she learned how skilled artisans create intricate repeating patterns by hand. The workshop celebrated the beauty of slow craftsmanship, where every print is unique, and every layer requires patience and precision.
Discovering Hmong Textile Traditions in Chiang Mai, Thailand
While visiting Chiang Mai, Kathy joined a Hmong tribal textile excursion to learn about the remarkable weaving, embroidery, and appliqué techniques that have been passed down through generations. The experience offered a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage behind these textiles. Every stitch, pattern, and colour carries meaning, reflecting family history, identity, and community traditions. Seeing these heirloom techniques firsthand reinforced the importance of preserving the stories woven into handmade textiles.
Treasure Hunting in the Flea Markets of Paris
Not all learning happens in a classroom.
While exploring the famous flea markets of Paris, Kathy spent hours searching for antique tapestries, vintage trims, and historic textiles. Each market stall offered a glimpse into the past, with beautifully crafted fabrics, passementerie, and decorative details that continue to inspire timeless upholstery and restoration work. Examining these pieces up close provided valuable insight into traditional materials, construction techniques, and design styles that have stood the test of time.
Bringing Inspiration Home
These journeys aren’t simply about learning new techniques; they’re about understanding the stories, traditions, and artistry behind the fabrics Kathy works with every day, influencing every restoration, custom upholstery project, and fabric selection she makes
Textile Journey in Bali
At the heart of every beautiful piece is a story. Understanding the history, traditions, and techniques behind textiles allows us to create and restore pieces with greater appreciation and care. As part of her ongoing professional development, Kathy travelled to Bali...
Wool Roving in Thomaston, Maine
Kathy has a passion for continuous learning. A few years back, Kathy had the opportunity to attend a wool roving weaving workshop in Thomaston, Maine, where she explored the creative possibilities of working with one of nature’s most versatile fibres. The workshop...
Exploring the Art of Plant-Based Dyes in Morocco
At the heart of exceptional craftsmanship is a commitment to never stop learning. Kathy travelled to Morocco to complete a professional development course focused on traditional plant-based dyeing techniques. Morocco has a rich textile heritage, with centuries-old...
Perfectly Aligned, One Stripe at a Time
These reupholstered chairs may look effortless, but getting them to this point took careful planning and precision. With striped fabric, every panel, seam, cushion, arm, and skirt has to line up just right. Even the slightest shift can throw off the entire look. It's...
Timeless Design Never Goes Out of Style
This beautifully upholstered chair features elegant mid-century modern lines, rich wood arms, and a gracefully curved silhouette that deserves to be showcased. We refreshed it with premium upholstery, giving it a clean, sophisticated look while preserving the...
A Room Worth Remembering
There's something special about walking into a guest room that feels comfortable, inviting, and thoughtfully finished. We're proud to have provided custom upholstery and sewing services for the guest rooms at the Cliff House, helping create spaces where every detail...