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Stitching by numbers

When translating the work of the world’s most creative designers into a beautiful handmade rug or cushion, the devil is in the detail.

The Hummingbird cushion by Alexander McQueen is no exception, and provided us with a particularly difficult challenge. Because of the intricate nature of the motif and its jewel like colours, it was important to be as faithful as possible to the artwork: even one shade off could throw the balance of the design.

The weavers’ graph is an artform in itself: hand-drawn in the studio, it is a map indicating the position and colour of every single stitch.

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Chain Reaction

Champion of witty British fashion, Giles Deacon is loved for his bold prints and sophisticated, pop culture references.

These hand-drawn sketches show his inspiration for the ‘Sentinel’, ‘Lavaliere’ and ‘Libertine’ rug designs. With an unusual metal theme, the designs exemplify Giles’ subversive style and mastery of elegant quirkiness.

Woven entirely by hand using fine wool and silk yarns, these rugs transform the harsh metallic motifs into soft, lustrous warmth.

“The inspiration behind the collection was to produce a range that embodies the Giles aesthetic of unexpected motifs made into beautiful statement objects. I loved the idea of playing with studs, chains and wire to make intricate repeats incorporating silk, wool and metallic thread. I love how the softness of the wool and silk yarns contrasts the harsh metal of the designs, and transforms them into something warm and alluring.” GILES DEACON

 

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Nice day out

If you happen to be in London, and find yourself near the British Museum, do go and visit Grayson Perry’s new show. We at The Rug Company are very honoured to have worked with him on our special tapestry  project, Banners of Persuasion.

The Rosetta Vase by Grayson Perry (2011)

‘The Tomb of the Unknown Craftsman’ was curated by Grayson and exhibits his own civilization peppered with anonymous crafted objects from the Museum’s collection. The exhibition pays homage to the unsung heroes of the past few millennia: nameless craftsmen whose skills have created some of the most beautiful and brilliant objects in the world.

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Matthew Williamson’s Super Ladies

We love nothing more than digging around in a rich archive, and here is a favourite find of ours. The picture shows fashion designer Matthew Williamson surrounded by some beatiful ladies you might recognise. In a kaleidoscope of colour, they luxuriate on some Rug Company rugs, including Matthew’s own design ‘Sunset‘.

Super ladies with Matthew, from left: Bay Garnett, Laura Bailey, Lucie de la Falaise, Minnie Weisz, Sienna Miller, Erin O’Connor

 



Photo Credit: Kayt Jones / Harpers & Queen 02.05; image also featured in Matthew Williamson biography by Rizzoli.


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Green with envy!

Don’t hedge your bets – use green as bold as nature intended. The Rug Company’s Creative Director, Suzanne Sharp, goes green and opens her notebook.

 

“I love bright designs in strong geometric patterns, especially a melange of old and new that sit comfortably together – I am currently obsessed with green, and love the hand-crafted vibe of our Key Shadow rug.”

 

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