bespoke handwovens FAQ

what materials do you use?

Botanical Weaves handwoven pieces are created using exclusively natural fibres. Almost all are reclaimed. This means yarn and textiles that are secondhand, end-of-projects or may otherwise be thrown away. All of my vibrant colours — each one of which I cultivate or forage responsibly myself — come courtesy of my own organic traditional dye plants. These include Japanese indigo, dyer's camomile and black walnut.

how does your natural dyeing and handweaving process work?

I create a full bespoke warp approximately every six weeks. Together with the client, we select the type of fibres, natural dyes and dye pattern for the vertical threads running lengthways through the loom. We then collaborate to make the same range of choices, plus the weaving pattern, for the weft (horizontal threads), resulting in a one-of-a-kind, personal creation.

In general, I also offer a couple of semi bespoke pieces on that same warp. Depending on length, two to three additional clients can hop onto the planned warp, choosing their own distinct weft fibres and colours for a unique Botanical Weaves handwoven piece. 

I usually use the final section of each warp for a ‘weaver’s choice’ piece of my own creation, which I offer for sale within my Facebook chatter group or on my website.

 

New for 2025! 

Beginning this year, I will offer at least one seasonal warp (vertical threads) every quarter, so a minimum of four per year. Each season will see a focus on one traditional dye plant (and its corresponding range of colours). The plant of the season will receive specific focus across my social media and particularly in my chatter group, covering its cultivation, historical use and potential medicinal benefits!

Clients can reserve a spot on the seasonal warp, choosing their own distinct weft (horizontal threads), colours and patterns for a unique seasonal Botanical Weaves creation. 

 

What seasonal warps are planned for 2025?

Winter (Jan-Mar): madder root’s reds, pinks, mauves and apricots

Spring (Apr-Jun): weld flowers’ yellows, golds and pale greens 

Summer (July-Sept): coreopsis tinctoria flowers’ deep orange and rusty browns

Autumn (Oct-Dec): indigo leaves’ greens, turquoise and midnight blues

 

How can I reserve a bespoke, semi-bespoke or seasonal warp place?

You are welcome to message me directly. I book slots for bespoke pieces around two to three months in advance. Semi-bespoke pieces can be requested any time - if there is space on the warp, I’ll do my best to fit you in!

Spots for semi-bespoke pieces and seasonal warps are announced in my Facebook chatter group, and on my social media. I either work on a first come, first serve basis, or by draw. 

 

How much does it cost?

Please check out the Botanical Weaves price list (coming soon under 'FAQ', or feel free to message me!) I don’t charge any extra for customs, semi-customs or seasonal warp spots. All prices also include natural dyeing.

 

Where can I find out more about Botanical Weaves?

Instagram @botanicalweaves https://www.instagram.com/botanicalweaves/ 

Facebook page Botanical Weaves https://www.facebook.com/botanicalweaves/ 

Facebook group Botanical Weaves Chatter https://www.facebook.com/groups/873067847787883/