James Donald is bringing CLOTH#22 to Restoration Yard for the first time from 22nd to 23rd October 2022 and we got the chance to sit down with him and talk all things textiles and what to expect from this year’s event. From weavers and knitters to printers, there will be something for every textile lover at CLOTH#22.
What is the inspiration behind CLOTH#22?
I am a maker who enjoys the work of other makers, whether they be ceramicists, jewelers, or Tapestry weavers. I have always been aware of the discipline specific shows such as Potfest and Dazzle – which are brilliantly organised and curated shows for ceramicists and jewelers – and was aware that there was not a textile equivalent anywhere in the UK. So, I decided to develop my own textiles specific show and as I am also a weaver it means I also have a space to sell my own handwoven work!
Why did you choose Restoration Yard as your 2022 location?
I was first made aware of Restoration Yard through the brilliant Taisir Gibreel – Head of Creative & Retail Operations at Restoration Yard – who was a student of mine many years ago when I used to teach at Dundee College. Taisir has now become a regular exhibitor at CLOTH. When I came to visit Restoration Yard, it was a no brainer for me that this would work as a space to support a direct selling event of this scale. Restoration Yard is already a destination space to visit due to its location, affordable parking, many and varied activities that already exist at Dalkeith Country Park. I felt that the CLOTH selling events could only add to this in a positive way, giving more value to an already strong set of reasons to come visit this glorious space!
What sort of exhibitors can we expect to see at CLOTH#22?
I am really excited by the quality and breadth of exhibitor we are presenting this year. I probably say this every year, but this year we have makers from all over the UK, the Peak District, Hastings, Glastonbury, Morar, Dumfries and Galloway, Glasgow, Dundee and of course makers closer to home in Edinburgh.
All of our makers either make cloth or use cloth as part of their creative practice.
We have weavers, knitters, printers – both digital and hand printed, embroiderers, crochet artists all producing items for you and your home. You will be getting a real mix of what handmade textiles can be in a contemporary and modern aesthetic.
What handmade textiles can we get our hands on?
Despite having a variety of weavers exhibiting, some are making products for the home and others, including me are making more wearable items. Each maker brings their own aesthetic to their discipline giving a really rich overview of what can be achieved through making cloth. I’ve been involved in this community since 1997 and I never tire of it and what makers bring to the table! It still excites.
Who is a new designer you are excited to have participating this year?
HA! That’s like asking me to choose my favourite child! Impossible! However, what I will say is I am really excited by those who are exhibiting at CLOTH#22 for the first time, so there will be a real mix. There is also work which will not have been seen previously by a Scottish audience as these particular makers have never exhibited north of the border before, so for CLOTH#22 that is a real first!
I am very excited by the variety of embroiderers we have exhibiting with us this year, which again demonstrates a real breadth of discipline.
Who should be coming to CLOTH#22?
Those who are looking for that hard to find gift or item for either themselves or their home. CLOTH#22 is also a perfect opportunity to make that all important commission! Many of our makers will be happy for you to place a commission or two. In the past makers have been commissioned to make a wedding dresses by customers who were curious about the event and weren’t really sure why they were there but left with a sartorial problem solved. Result I say!
CLOTH#22 is timed to get you ahead of the curve with your Christmas shopping and help spread out the costs of what is to come, which in my book can’t be a bad thing.
Sound like the event for you?
CLOTH#22 is a ticketed event taking place at Restoration Yard. Entry tickets can be purchased in advance for £2.50 or on the door for £3. We are looking forward to seeing you there!