The Story Behind Our Blankets
Last year, we set ourselves a rather lovely challenge: to discover fresh design talent and turn their ideas into something you could wrap yourself up in.
We invited design students from across the South West to create a repeating pattern that would be suitable for use on a Beaumont & Brown blanket. We wanted to give emerging designers the opportunity to see their work move beyond the sketchbook and into production, while bringing something new to our collection.
What followed rather took us by surprise.
A difficult decision, in the best possible way
The standard of entries was exceptionally high. We received so many thoughtful, imaginative designs that choosing our winners was no easy task.
In the end, all three prizes went to students at Arts University Plymouth. Caitlin Piper, a final-year Fashion Design student, took first place, with Chloe Nutt, studying Interior Design & Styling, in second. Rowan Hewitt, a first-year Textile Design student, was awarded third prize.
Caitlin and Chloe were given the opportunity to see their designs produced for sale, turning their original patterns into throws that could find their way into homes around the world.
Seeing the designs come to life
Over the past year, it has been lovely to see Caitlin and Chloe’s designs become real blankets and begin making their way into homes. What started as a competition brief has become something people can live with, use and enjoy every day.
That is one of the things we particularly loved about this project. It was not simply about giving students a brief and choosing a winner. It was about giving talented young designers the chance to see their creativity translated into a product, and giving our customers the opportunity to own something with a really positive story behind it.
Both throws are made in the UK from recycled cotton, bringing together considered design and a more thoughtful approach to materials. They are a lovely reminder that good design can be beautiful, practical and meaningful all at once.
A Christmas present with a story to tell
With Christmas on the horizon, these blankets have been on our minds for another reason, too.
A really good blanket is one of those gifts that gets used long after the wrapping paper has been cleared away. Draped over the end of a bed, folded over the arm of a favourite chair or pulled out on a chilly evening, it is something to enjoy throughout the year.
Explore our collection of blankets and find a design to give this Christmas, or to keep for yourself. We won't judge!
