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Fashion Textile & Children’s Trust …….. and how you can support them!

The FTCT is a charity that has supported the children of the UK fashion and textile families since 1853.  Maybe you or your company would be interested in supporting them? 

Read on and find out how…..

Where it all began…..

The charity was founded back in 1853 when the cotton weaving industry was thriving. A group of textile merchants formed a financial trust fund, to support the children and widow of a former colleague.

The trust grew in size and funds to help more children of those working in the allied textile trades.

To this day, the FTCT is here for anyone in the textile industry who needs help.

YOU’RE WONDERING HOW CAN YOU HELP?

 Textile Recycling Association and Clothes Aid

The importance to recycling at every level is at the fore right now and the FTCT has been working with the Textile Recycling Association since 2020. Through the promotion of their grants to member companies, they have already supported families in the sector, including a family at Clothes Aid.

Promote the FTCT at work!

Spreading the word of what the FTCT is something you can help with.  Here’s how you can get started.

From bake sales to fun runs, fundraising for FTCT is a great way to introduce staff to the charity and the support the grants can give families.  Or you can donate directly via the website.

So, who can apply for a grant?

To apply for an FTCT grant perhaps if you have faced redundancy or the such like (a grant is a financial donation which does not have to be repaid), one parent must work OR have recently worked in the UK fashion and textile industry, for at least one year within the last nine years. Find out more about the criteria on the website.

Perhaps a member of your staff is in need or maybe you would like to refer a family in need?

How else & who do the FTCT help?

  • They can provide grants for essential items such as a proper bed to sleep in.
  • Rehousing grants for families who need help with set up costs.
  • Grants for when a parent is unwell, maybe a long term physical or mental health condition.
  • Kinship care grants for families who are raising children of relatives or friends.
  • Therapy grants to provide funding for children with additional learning, emotional or health needs.
  • Specialist equipment grants for children with complex health needs and conditions.

Interesting Facts

  • Between 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2020 the FTCT supported 1049 children!
  • Between 1 July 2020 – 30 June 2021 the FTCT awarded more than £500,000 in financial grants to the children of the UK fashion and textile employees.
  • The average grant to fund essential household and children’s clothing is £473.

The FTCT have several corporate partners across the industry who work with them and support them in a variety of ways, which you can read about below. This ranges from sponsorship to fundraising and advocacy.

BITA (British Interiors & Textile Association) has been a proud supporter of the FTCT for many years.  Check out https://www.interiortextiles.co.uk/ for more information.

https://fashiontextilechildrenstrust.eu.rit.org.uk/corporate-sponsorship

They’re already making a big impact to hundreds of children in families across the industry. With your help, they could do so much more.

It’s really easy to fundraise for the charity, whether as part of a team or individually. Set up your FTCT fundraiser today by contacting Anna anna@ftct.org.uk or calling 0203 667 7882 to discuss larger donations or sponsorship opportunities.

 

BITA member Edmund Bell launches new print designs: BLOOM & Printed Textures

Edmund Bell are pleased to announce the addition of nine new print designs in the form of the BLOOM collection, and DUET, OPERA and QUARTET printed textures.

BLOOM’s spontaneity captures the freshness of pretty country gardens. Scattered florals and blossom evoke a playful summer garden and mix decoratively with leaves and abstract patterns of the entire collection.

With a cool mix of emerald and midnight, blush, magenta and espresso; vivacious shades dance and mix effortlessly with neutral basics.Bloom news post 1FLORIS as the main floral bursting with summer delight mixes calmly with AMILIE; another organic inspired easy to use leaf. FINESSE and MONSOON, whilst multi-coloured, add certain calmness and contrast with zig zag lines and subtle drops. MARQUISE on the other hand punctuates with notes of formal trellis work and geometric clarity.Bloom news post 2The entire BLOOM story is complimented with METRO and OASIS (printed Sentinel base fabric), both waterproof upholstery substrates; and SERENITY our exclusive FR voile. MATRIX , a three tone FR strié effect woven fabric, completes the entire use of fabric complements for successful interior spaces.Bloom news post 3See the full BLOOM collection here

DUET, OPERA and QUARTET are a range of contemporary printed textures, designed to compliment and co-ordinate with a wide variety of decorative fabrics and interior schemes. Bloom news post 4The three designs, each presented in a assortment of 12 trend-led colourways, feature a range of subtle, printed ‘weave’ effects.Bloom news post 5Find out more about QUARTET , OPERA  and DUET

Suitable for any setting, but ideal for contract interiors projects, you can choose from an extensive range of 17 flame retardant base fabrics that are appropriate for the Hospitality, Education, Healthcare, Marine, Leisure and Events markets. Options of printing to narrow and wide widths (137cm to 300cm) are available on some of our base fabrics.

For over 160 years, Edmund Bell have been honing their product knowledge and manufacturing expertise to earn our reputation as your entrepreneurial partner who delivers the best quality, added-value and superior service.

BITA Website

Our brand new website is finally here!

Interact with us, our new website just became a lot easier to navigate and use! With an easy click, you can now view and interact with all industry and BITA Events, even add your own events … absolutely free! Our Interiors Directory now allows you to swiftly add your own listings and look up either specific or general companies in the trade. Locate the latest industry News including; show reviews, offers, etc.

Jobs – find your dream occupation or if you want to find the perfect candidate – post your job on our board (this is free for our BITA Members or a small charge for non BITA Members). One of our new sections is the Graduate Hub, a new section solely for design graduates. Lastly the Membership area is to learn how to become a member.

Preview images of the website below.

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HEIMTEXTIL 2018

“More visitors, more opportunities; best Heimtextil yet” says Edmund Bell

Edmund Bell have just returned from their tenth appearance at the Heimtextil international trade fair, and it was their best yet.

Edmund Bell previewed a number of new ranges at the exhibition including new velvet blackout SENSATION and new velvet upholstery range PLUSH, new woven ranges MATRIX and EQUILIBRIUM, and new print collection BLOOM. All of which were well received by visitors to the stand.

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Simon Nutt, Group Head of Marketing says:

“We have been exhibiting at Heimtextil for ten years now and the exhibition is showing no signs of slowing down. For 2019 we invested in a larger stand space at the show, and showcased a new stand reflecting our new brand identity. We were very encouraged by the positive customer reaction and increase in customers visiting the stand. As well as a big increase on last year, we recorded over 50% more customer opportunities than we did two years ago.”

Not one to rest on their laurels; the team are already thinking about how they can improve the visitor experience at Heimtextil 2020 – which will be the shows 50th anniversary. There will more product launches throughout the year to look out for.

Edmund Bell are a leading and trusted supplier to the global soft furnishings market, and experts in flame retardant blackout and dimout fabrics to the hospitality, cruise, healthcare, education and workplace markets.

For further information about us or our extensive product range and services please email sales@edmundbell.com, call +44 (0)1706 717070 or visit www.edmundbell.com

 Edmund Bell. Where design meets performance, since 1855.

BITA MASTERCLASS – TEXTILE DESIGNER CAREER – ‘HOW TO DESIGN FOR PRINT’

original-2.jpgA day of discussion and valuable insights about how to design for the print industry.

The course will be taught by professionals from Standfast & Barracks and will cover the topics; Researching your customer; The importance of Colour and Technical Considerations; And ‘how to win your dream job in textiles’ – a talk given by BITA & Norfolk house Director, Diane Harding. The masterclass will be useful for people who want to know more about working in the printed textile industry, making contacts and meeting like-minded individuals.

The day will also include a tour of the Standfast & Barracks design studio and factory to get an insight into how a successful Printed Textile company operates.

Diane, will also be on hand to offer tailored advice on your CV and portfolio to help you further your career.

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This event is FREE for BITA members (email siobhan@interiortextiles.co.uk to book) and only £25 for everyone else.

Lunch is provided as well as refreshments on arrival.

Check our website http://www.interiortextiles.co.uk or contact emi@norfolkhouse-uk.com for more information on BITA membership.

* Please note that attendees will be visiting a working mill and must wear sturdy footwear with flat soles and closed toes. No clothing such as floaty scarves and draping skirts will be permitted due to machinery on the factory floor.

Reviews from the previous masterclass;

“I personally enjoyed the design process being explained and comparing it to my methods. It’s great to see how it works in industry as it helps a designer to understand the process and adapt your designs for certain print methods.”
Amy

“A Valuable insight into an industry and seeing the process from design to completion. Seeing the technical process of print was also invaluable as was seeing the factory. It was very professionally run, and the day was delivered brilliantly. Excellent value, I would highly recommend.”
Pippa

COLOUR & DESIGN TRENDS 2019

If you are in the Interior design industry you may be wondering what is coming up next year for the style conscious fabric houses. Here is summary of some of the colours and trends that are due to emerge in the coming months.

Alongside their 3 colour palettes for next year the people at Pantone have finally revealed the colour of the year for 2019 as Living Coral 16-1546. Whilst we are still embracing the 2018 Ultra Violet with its futuristic appearance, this colour is warm and lively and evokes feelings of optimism and joyful activities. Pantone have also released 3 other palettes of colour called Cravings, Meanderings and Classico.

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“CRAVINGS, THE 2019 PANTONE PALETTE DEDICATED TO FOOD Among the colours we find: Butterum, Cappuccino, Chili Pepper, Flamingo, Grass Green, and Cayenne.”  -Pantone

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“MEANDERINGS, THE 2019 PANTONE PALETTE OF GLOBALISATIO Among the colours included are: Island Green, Blue Print, Spice Route, Chai Tea, Aurora Red and Wild Orchid.” -Pantone

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“CLASSICO, THE 2019 PANTONE PALETTE OF TIMELESS COLOURS
Just as the name suggests, the shades of the Pantone Classico palette are essential, sober and timeless and at the same time, elegant and always in fashion. Among the colours included in Classico – Pantone Colour Palette 2019 here are: Camel, Deep Teal, Apricot Brandy, Gray Flannel, White Swan, and Caviar.” -Pantone

PANTONE COLOUR OF THE YEAR 2019

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It is a move forward for the pastel pinks that have been everywhere this year. Mixed

with eastern influences from Morocco and teamed with coastal blues and greens, this

colour has the potential to liven up the dullest of spaces.  Think tiled flooring, hand-dyed linens, layers of patterns, water colour prints all mixed together to give a fresh and elegant take on the pink trend.

RELAXED NORDIC STYLE

This style embraces the best of Swedish hygge. Walls in shades of white contrasted by rough wood surfaces and sheepskin rugs.

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AT ONE WITH NATURE

Sustainability is becoming a global priority. Ethically sourced products, natural fabric and textile designs that mimic natural materials are a big trend for 2019.

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NIGHTWATCH GREEN

This Dulux colour of the year is Nightwatch Green. A strong colour that creates a dramatic effect when teamed with blossoming florals and bright oranges. This colour works with the botanical theme that has been really popular this year.

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SUMPTUOUS VELVET

Internet searches for velvet has increased 400% in the past 6 months as people are looking for luxurious investments in bold contrasting colour fabrics.

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INSPIRED BY 70’S RETRO

With the current trend for velvet and bold geometric patterns, and so many burnt oranges and yellows at the forefront of the consumer trends, there is definitely a nod towards the 70’s era. Think warm colour palettes, funky textures and abstract silhouettes.

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BLACK & WHITE

A truly timeless design trend, the visual contrast of black and white provides a sense of balance and boldness. Look out for dalmatian print which will be everywhere next year.

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Images from; Pantone, Dulux ,Claire Gaudion, Prestigious Textiles, Green & Mustard, The Haddow Group, West Elm, The Room Alive and Etsy.

 

BITA AWARDS 2017/18

Announcing the results of  the
2017 / 2018
British Interior & Textiles Association Awards
 

Each category below was voted for by members of the interior and textile industry. The first and second place in each category received a certificate to recognise the valuable input that they make in our industry.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. 

BEST BEDLINEN SUPPLIER
1. Style Library
2. Ashley Wilde
3. The Portofino Studio

BEST BLIND SUPPLIER
1. Green & Brown
2. Rol-Lite
3. Diffusion

BEST CUSHION SUPPLIER
1. Fine Quality Feather
2. Hallis Hudson
3. Margo Selby

BEST EMPLOYED SALES REP
1. James Vardy – iLiv
2. Peter Barnett – Green & Brown
3. Stephen Green – Prestigious
4. Jon Ashdown – Clarke & Clarke

BEST FABRIC BRAND
1. Prestigious Textiles
2. Zoffany
3. Jacqueline Milton

BEST INDEPENDENT SALES AGENT
1. James Thompson
2. John Northwood
3. Andrew Bennett
4. Steve Houghton

BEST MADE TO MEASURE SERVICE
1.Regal Blinds
2. English Rooms
3. Windmill Workroom

BEST POLE & TRACK SUPPLIER
1. Hallis Hudson
2. Bradley Collection
3. Jones Interiors

BEST READY MADE CURTAIN SUPPLIER
1. iLiv
2. Ashley Wilde
3. Rectella

BEST SAMPLING DESIGN
1. Ashley Wilde
2. Olivia Bard

BEST SUPPLIER FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE
1. Hallis Hudson
2. SMD / iLiv
3. Jones Interiors

BEST TRIMMING SUPPLIER
1. Troynorth
2. Jones Interiors
3. Silverdale

BEST WALL COVERINGS BRAND
1. Cole & Son
2. Harlequin / Style Library
3. Sandberg

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR EXCELLENT WINNERS & FINALISTS!

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BITA September Showcases – Back on the Road Again! 

The British Interiors & Textiles Association are delighted to announce the return of our hugely successful September Roadshows for 2018.

Diane Harding, BITA Director and Secretary said “Talking to exhibitors and visitors from our  Roadshows over the past 10 years – it is clear they have missed our local shows which mean less travel and cost for visitors  – especially in the North and the Midlands so by popular demand we are back on the Road and hoping you will join us?”

Recognised for their exciting diversity, BITA Roadshows feature brands at all levels as well as new and up and coming suppliers from across the UK.

Attended by buyers, suppliers and key industry leaders alike, the BITA trade show floor is a great place to showcase your products and form new relationships as well as nurture existing ones in their own county at a very sensible cost.

Locations and dates:

Surrey | 9th September
Nottingham | 11th September
Newcastle | 13th September
Harrogate | 16th September
Milton Keynes | 18th September

Booking is now open with an early bird discount of 30% which will run until 14th June 2018, contact karen.mcgeeney@interiortextiles.co.uk for further information.

Join BITA for an evening of networking and celebration with industry winners!

The Annual British Interiors & Textiles Association Awards (BITA) 2018 will be held
on 5th August 2018 at the ancestral home of Lord Bryon, Colwich Hall, Nottingham.

An intimate evening, the summer ball is open to all across the industry to attend, providing a fantastic opportunity to entertain clients, celebrate with colleagues and network with industry leaders!

Launched in 2017, the BITA Awards recognise excellence in creativity and service across the interiors and textiles industry.  This year’s finalists range from the best designers and suppliers right the way through to the best sales agents.

The evening will commence at 7pm, tickets cost £60 and include a drinks reception, three course meal and entertainment. Discounts are available for group bookings.

To secure your ticket please email karen.mcgeeney@interiortextiles.co.uk

And the finalists are….

After a record-breaking year for nominations, the finalists in this year’s BITA Industry Awards can now be revealed.

Launched in 2017, the BITA Awards recognise excellence in creativity and service across the sector.  The finalists range from the best designers and suppliers right the way to the best sales agents.

Diane Harding, BITA Director & Secretary said “The BITA Awards offer a credible endorsement of excellence which allows winners to stand out from the crowd.  There is no better recognition than that of your contemporaries and with winners decided solely on the votes of those from within industry the BITA Industry Awards set a standard of excellence by those who know best.”

Caroline Adam, Sales and Marketing Manager at Pike Textiles, sponsors of this years awards, said….“Pike Textiles have been at the forefront of fabric, wallpaper and window blind sampling solutions for 126 years with Excellence and Innovation being the two foundations of our business. 

Working with world leading brands and market leading retailers, we always have an eye on best practice and are pleased to be sponsoring an award recognising the best in field Sampling Solution through BITA.”

Winners will be announced at a Summer Ball, which will be held later in the year.  Details will be announced in due course.

Here are the BITA Awards 2018 finalists…..

Best Fabric Brand
Zoffany
Prestigious Textiles
Jacqueline Milton

Best Blind Supplier
Diffusion
Rol-Lite
Green & Brown

Best Pole & Track Supplier
Hallis Hudson
Bradley Collection
Jones Interior

Best Made to Measure Service
Windmill Workroom
English Rooms
Regal Blinds

Best Trimmings Supplier
Jones Interior
Troynorth
Silverdale

Best Cushion Supplier
Fine Quality Feather
Hallis Hudson
Margo Selby

Best Wallcoverings Brand
Cole & Son
Harlequin/Style Library
Sandberg

Best Independent Sales Agent
John Northwood
Steve Houghton
James Thomson
Andrew Bennett

Best Employed Sales Rep
Peter Barnett – Green & Brown
Stephen Green – Prestigious
Jon Ashdown – Clarke & Clarke
James Vardy – iLiv

Best Supplier for Customer Service
Jones Interior
Hallis Hudson
SMD/iLiv

Best Sample Design
Ashley Wilde
Olivia Bard

Best Readymade Curtain Supplier
Ashley Wilde
Rectella
iLiv

Best Bedlinen Supplier
Style Library
The Portofino Studio
Ashley Wilde