Wrap yourself in heritage
Welsh wool and Celtic Wool blankets are more than just textiles; they are pieces of history. Each blanket reflects the skill and dedication of generations of Welsh weavers. The intricate designs, inspired by the country's stunning landscapes and rich folklore, were once found in every home, providing comfort during harsh winters and marking significant life events.
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A blanket is not just purchase it is a CWTCH, gift
for generations. Built to last and designed with care, it is a perfect meaningful heirloom - quality gifts for weddings, housewarmings or any other special occasions including a gift for yourself.
Heritage and innovation
The story of Welsh wool blankets is one of endurance and transformation. Despite the challenges faced by the woolen mills, the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern fashion offers a hopeful future. Through this blend of heritage and innovation, Wales is weaving a new chapter in the story of its wool blankets, ensuring they continue to bring warmth, style, and cultural pride to future generations.
Authentic Patterns
The Caernarfon Welsh blanket pattern is one of the most recognisable and traditional Welsh tapestry patterns. It originates from North Wales, particularly associated with the Caernarfon area, and is part of the rich tradition of Welsh double-weave blankets.
Design & Characteristics
The Caernarfon pattern features a bold geometric design, often described as a type of “portcullis” or stepped pattern. It is symmetrical and intricate, typically woven in a double-cloth construction, making the blankets reversible. The pattern is commonly seen in strong contrasting colours, such as black and white, red and black, or blue and cream.
Historical Origins
The earliest known examples of the Caernarfon pattern date back to at least the early 19th century, though its roots are likely older. Traditional Welsh weaving flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries, with many local mills producing these blankets. The pattern has been closely associated with the iconic Welsh woollen mills of North and Mid Wales.
The Penmachno Welsh blanket pattern is another traditional Welsh tapestry design, originating from Penmachno, a village in North Wales. Like other classic Welsh weaving patterns, it is part of the double-cloth tradition, known for its durability, warmth, and intricate geometric designs.
Design & Characteristics
The Penmachno pattern features bold, structured motifs, often incorporating a combination of squares, crosses, and stepped elements. It has a slightly more compact and repeating geometric layout compared to the Caernarfon pattern, though both share a similar double-weave construction, making them fully reversible.
Historical Origins
The Penmachno pattern dates back to at least the 19th century, though, like many Welsh patterns, its origins may be much older, drawing inspiration from pre-industrial weaving traditions. Welsh mills, particularly in North Wales, began producing double-weave blankets in large numbers by the mid-to-late 19th century.
Penmachno, historically a wool-producing area, had small-scale weavers before larger mills took over the production of Welsh tapestry blankets. The pattern itself became popular in North and Mid Wales, appearing in both blankets and tapestry bedcovers.
Weaving Traditions
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Welsh double-cloth weaving was historically done on handlooms, with the transition to power looms in the 19th century enabling greater consistency and wider distribution. The Caernarfon and Penmachno pattern, like many other traditional designs, has remained in use due to its timeless appeal and historical significance.
Cultural Significance
Welsh blanket designs, the Caernarfon and Penmachno pattern has been associated with heritage, craftsmanship, and Welsh identity.
These blankets were often given as wedding gifts and were a staple in many Welsh homes.
Today, the pattern is still appreciated for its rich history and classic aesthetic.