Chalk Wovens is based in Brighton in the south of England.
Kerry Stokes is the woven textiles designer at Chalk. She has had a long and interesting career working for companies from Japan to New York to Europe, designing men’s shirtings, airline fabrics, wall coverings, upholstery fabrics and towels, to name but a few. She has been a visiting tutor at Central St. Martin’s and Brighton University for many years.
Richard Bush, who studied Ceramics at Farnham, has owned an interiors business and has also represented weave designers in New York and Europe.
Kerry and Richard decided to draw on their design and business expertise and set up ‘Chalk’. The company offers contemporary, smart, woven products, and they are designed and woven in the UK.
How it’s made
The designs are woven on a hand loom in our Brighton studio before production. This stage allows Kerry to explore different ideas, constructions, and colourways. Once finalised, the patterns are sent to the mill, where skilled craftspeople weave them into wide widths, following precise technical instructions.
After the weaving and finishing process, the fabric is sent back to Brighton, where it’s made into cushions, throws, and other products, completing the Chalk Wovens collection.
The Benefits of Wool
We value wool for its remarkable properties. Beyond its luxurious feel and rich palette, wool stands out for its sustainability and versatility.
- Natural: Wool is a time-tested, entirely natural material. Its protective qualities have been recognized since the Stone Age, unmatched by any man-made fibre.
- Renewable: With grass to graze, sheep continually produce new fleece, ensuring wool remains a renewable resource. Woolgrowers prioritize environmental care, ensuring the industry’s longevity.
- Biodegradable: Once wool has served its purpose, it enriches the soil as it decomposes swiftly.
- Insulating: Wool’s natural insulation reduces energy costs in homes, contributing to lower carbon emissions.
- Breathable: The unique structure of wool fibres allows for excellent air circulation.
- Durable: Resistant to wear and tear, wool products maintain their appearance, extending their lifespan.
- Low Maintenance: Wool’s inherent properties resist staining and reduce dust accumulation due to its anti-static nature.
- Safe: Wool is hypoallergenic and naturally flame-retardant.
For a deeper dive into wool’s benefits, visit Campaign for Wool.
