Woollen Tapestry Welsh Blankets: A Heritage of Craftsmanship
A cwtch lifestyle would not be complete without a woollen Welsh blanket. There are many vintage ones for sale in a huge variety of designs and colours. My Welsh grandma gave me a Welsh tapestry blanket as a bed cover many years ago. It was a wedding present, as was the tradition in Wales. Mine is a lovely cream, yellow and brown. As you can see from the image below, tapestry blankets are reversible. Making them unusual from many other woollen blankets as they have an interwoven double layer. Mine is at least 50 years old, and it’s like new, a testament to its quality.
Jane Beck has the biggest collection of vintage and new Welsh Blankets; click on the link to visit her site. The top image above is taken from her site, a vintage pink and blue Welsh tapestry blanket. She has many beautiful blankets of different types, all made in Wales.
Welsh blankets, especially tapestry blankets, are more than just functional textiles. They are iconic symbols of Wales’ rich cultural and crafting heritage. Recognised for their intricate patterns, colours, thickness, and enduring quality. Woven in the heart of Wales for centuries, they embody the artistry and traditions of the region.
A Tradition of Excellence
In the early 18th century, handlooms were traditionally common in rural households. Wool was/is a staple of the Welsh economy. They would shear sheep, card, spin, and dye the wool using natural pigments derived from plants and minerals. The skill and creativity of Welsh weavers transformed these materials into intricately designed blankets. They became prized possessions in homes across Wales and beyond.
The designs, often geometric and symmetrical, reflect a combination of practicality and artistry. Traditional patterns include diamonds, stripes, and squares, each with a distinct identity rooted in specific regions or weaving families. The double-cloth technique is a hallmark of these blankets. Creating a reversible fabric, showcasing two contrasting yet harmonious designs on each side. It’s pretty extraordinary.
Quality in Every Thread
What sets Welsh tapestry blankets apart is their exceptional quality. Crafted from 100% wool, they are naturally insulating, breathable, and durable. Wool’s inherent properties make these blankets ideal for the often chilly and damp Welsh climate. Each Welsh blanket is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, with modern producers continuing to honour traditional techniques. Today, they incorporate contemporary innovations.
A Legacy Preserved
Welsh blankets are celebrated worldwide as functional quality items and works of beauty. Sought after for their timeless beauty and utility, they grace homes as bed covers or throws. Welsh blankets were heirlooms passed down through the generations. The revival of interest in British-made, sustainable, handmade products has cemented their place in contemporary interior design. They are a unique blend of heritage and craftsmanship.
Be it their history, the warmth they provide, or their visual appeal, Welsh tapestry blankets are a treasure worth cherishing. They embody the craftsmanship of their makers and the enduring spirit of Wales’ cultural heritage.
