Stephen Walter's samples in their office/showroom.
At MAES London, we have been championing luxury manufacturing since inception. We believe in understanding the heart and soul of the materials we work with.
Over the years, MAES London has built a community around these values, partnering and aligning with companies who share the same vision and passion. To embed these in our company culture, recently, our team had the pleasure of visiting Stephen Walters & Sons, a 300 year old renowned textile mill with a rich history and a reputation for producing some of the finest fabrics in the world. The visit was not just a tour but an immersive experience that deepened our appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each piece of fabric and yarn.
It also reminded us, that we are a people led industry.
As we arrived at Stephen Walters' mill, we were greeted with warm hospitality by the mill's team. The mill, nestled in the scenic countryside of Sudbury, presented an impressive blend of historical charm and modern innovation. The initial meet-and-greet set the tone for an inspiring day ahead.
One of the oldest weaving loom's at Stephen Walters mill, dating back to 1800's, which is being refurbished and used till this day.
A Glimpse into History
Our visit began with a presentation on the mill's history. Established in the 18th century, starting from London Spitalfields, Stephen Walters & Sons has been a cornerstone in the textile industry, known for its commitment to quality and excellence. Learning about the mill's journey over the centuries, from its humble beginnings to becoming a global leader in textile production, was truly inspiring. The mill’s dedication to preserving traditional techniques while embracing modern advancements resonates with our own values at MAES London.
Despite the scale and history of their business, the team remains humble and provide hands on guidance to give a collaborative experience to designers of all sizes. With a focus of jacquards, their skilled team helps in delivering exquisite designs for fashion, textiles & home furnishings. Again a shared value with our business.
Archival fabric swatches at Stephen Walters, dating back from 1800's.
The Weaving Process
Next, we were taken on a guided tour of the archival collections, design and sales offices through to the factory floor where we saw the weaving facilities. Witnessing the intricate process of weaving was a highlight for many of us. From the initial design stage to the final product, each step was meticulously executed. The skilled artisans and advanced machinery worked in perfect harmony, producing fabrics that are both beautiful and durable. Seeing the level of precision and attention to detail that goes into every weave gave us a deeper appreciation for the fabrics.
One of the most exciting aspects of our visit was learning about the innovative practices at Stephan Walters Mill. The mill has made significant strides in incorporating innovative practices into their production processes. From using advanced dye techniques to renovating machinery dating back from the 1800's, the mill is committed to innovation and repurposing. This aligns with our mission at MAES London to promote innovation and sustainability in fashion. We were particularly impressed by their initiatives to minimise waste, showcasing that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Weaving loom on the factory floor at Stephen Walters mill.
We aim to weave a future where tradition meets innovation, and luxury meets sustainability.
Get in touch with us today at: hello@maeslondon.com