We've been running it for a few months now, and it has truly been an incredible addition to our production floor. This new loom allows us to weave material for our matelasse bedspreads 2x faster than our older jacquard looms!
In this blog article, we'll be taking you through the process of making a matelasse bedspread with material woven on our brand new loom. But first, let's brush up on what the term "matelasse" refers to.
Pictured above: Abigail Adams Matelasse Bedspread
Matelasse is a figured, woven fabric that has a history beginning in 1700’s France. This popular fabric was originally hand quilted, which made it incredibly luxurious. In the early 1740's, England found a way to reproduce a similar material on a loom. This innovation allowed the coveted material to become commercially available by the 1760’s. With the advent of the Jacquard loom in 1801 in France, producing the woven "quilting" became even faster. France, wanting to maintain the identity of their hand-quilting, began using the name "matlasser," meaning "to quilt" in French. This is where the modern term "matelassé" comes from.
Pictured above: Queen Elizabeth Matelasse Bedspread
So how do we turn the matelasse fabric coming off our new loom into a bedspread (or pillow sham, or throw)? Keep reading to find out!
First, the material has to be woven on the new loom. As the loom weaves, fabric accumulates on a roll on the front of the loom. A finished roll of fabric is pictured here, ready to be taken to cutting.
Rolls of woven material are taken to our large cutting table to be cut to the perfect dimensions. Here is a stack of our Americana Matelasse Bedspreads that have been cut and stacked neatly on an organizational trolly. After fabric has been cut, it’s ready to be stitched.
Stitching involves putting hems and/or fringe onto the finished product, depending on what is being created. Our matelasse bedspreads, throws, and matching pillow shams have fringe added. In this photo one of our stitchers is putting fringe on an Abigail Adams Pillow Sham.
After stitching, items are taken to our washroom where they will be wet finished. “Wet finishing” is just a fancy term for getting washed and dried. It may seem simple, but this is actually a vital part of the process. Washing fluffs the raw cotton fibers, which gives our matelasse fabric its characteristic quilted look.
Once washed, our finished matelasse products are taken to the inspection tables. Here, our inspection team carefully looks over every bedspread, throw, and sham, clipping stray threads and looking for any possible defects. Products are also packaged here before they are shipped out to customers.
(Side note: sometimes our inspection team does find minor defects in a bedspread. We offer these products for sale at greatly reduced prices, so be sure to sign up for our newsletter to be notified about our next Seconds Sale!).
Do you have questions about our new loom, matelasse products, or manufacturing process? We’d love to hear from you. Ask in the comment section below!
]]>Have you ever wondered the best way to support the American made brands you love when you're short on cash? Sometimes a little can go a long way! We've compiled a list of 5 things that you can do to help out small businesses and made in USA brands like ours that make a big impact but don't cost a thing (except maybe a couple of minutes of your time!).
If you have experience with a brand's products, leaving a simple positive review can be a game-changer. In our current era of online shopping, reviews play a massive part in steering customers towards (or away from) buying a product that they can't see and feel for themselves. If you like a brand's products and want to show your support, putting in a good word can help consumers make the choice to purchase from them.
If you're into social media, following the brands you like is an excellent and easy way to support them. Consumers often look to the size of a brand's online following as an indicator of their credibility - lots of fans equals good products! If you have friends or family who you think may also enjoy the brand, invite them to follow too. That helps the brand broaden their online base, by exposing more people to the brand who may not have known about them before.
Another way to show your support on social media is by engaging with the brand's social media posts. Liking, commenting, and sharing their posts can show that they have an active and dedicated fan base (plus, it's fun!). Sharing posts is especially helpful in spreading the word about their services and products.
Email newsletters give brands the chance to demonstrate knowledge about their products, tell their stories, and send information about sales and new releases. Having a solid email marketing list is critical to an online business, since it's a reliable source of potential customers who are already fans. Unlike social media platforms which can be unstable, an email list is not subject to changes in algorithms which businesses have no control over.
Psst, have you signed up for our newsletter yet? We often run special sales that are reserved just for our subscribers, so be sure to sign up today!
And lastly, if you like a brand's products, let the world know! Sometimes, good old fashioned word of mouth is the best way to spread the love.
We hope this list gave you some ideas for how to support the brands you love without needing to spend any money. Do you have other ideas? Let us know in the comments!
]]>New year, new trends! We always like to keep tabs on what's being forecasted for home decor and bedding trends each year to see where we fit in. Lucky for us, no matter what's "on trend", high quality and long lasting products are always in style!
Here's our round up of what design experts are saying we'll see more of in 2024.
While a lot of decor trends are going more and more towards maximalism, it seems 2024 will also make space for solid colored textiles, including whites and neutrals. This goes along with the idea of "quiet luxury" - the notion that simple, high quality materials are opulent and sophisticated. Lofty textures will also play a part in this trend.
Our Lattice Cotton Blanket is a chunky, high texture weave and is available in solid white and in natural cotton.
Piggybacking off of the last point, eco conscious and high quality materials will be a large focus of 2024. If you know, you know - our bedspreads and blankets are heirloom quality, lasting for generations. Since our products can last a lifetime (and beyond) choosing Bates can reduce the need to buy new bedding as often, thus reducing the amount of textile waste going into landfills.
Layered textures have been trendy in the home space for quite a few years, but this trend isn't going anywhere in 2024. Our unique terry weave is a nostalgic, beautiful way to add plush textures to your bedroom - or you can add a terry throw to your living room couch as a cozy statement piece.
Pairing vintage and contemporary pieces is a big design "yes!" in 2024. Mixing older and newer items makes a room feel comfortable and complete. Choose unique pieces that have a history and have special meaning to you. We love this photo from a Bates customer showing their vintage Bates throw beautifully mixed with more contemporary throw pillows!
Simple, "no hassle" bedding will be a growing trend this year. Forget the layers upon layers of blankets, duvets, and a thousand pillow shams - an elegant, well-chosen coverlet or quilt paired with a couple of shams is all you you need for a beautiful bed. Change out accent throws or bedskirts for a fresh look! Our American Made Coverlets are the perfect choice for a hassle-free bed.
What do you think of these 2024 trends? Which will you follow, and which will you say "pass" to? Let us know in the comments below!
]]>As you may know, many of our looms still run on the old Jacquard punch cards - which, by today's standards, is pretty outdated technology. While we take pride in keeping our old looms running, adding this new digital loom to our production floor will allow us to weave our classic matelasse bedspreads at a much faster rate. In addition, we won't have to worry about making and storing all of the punch cards, since this loom weaves designs from digital files.
Our oldest Jacquard head still in production that uses punch cards to dictate the design.
Read on to learn about each step in the loom installation process!
First, we needed to construct a large structure called a gantry. What sets jacquard looms apart from other looms is the "jacquard head". This essential machine controls the complex patterns the loom weaves. The gantry holds the jacquard head in place above the loom.
Next, the jacquard head had to be situated in the correct location on top of the gantry.
Once the jacquard head was secured on top of the gantry, the loom itself had to be installed underneath. It arrived at our facility early in the morning, and after a winding ride through our production floor, it was pushed into place by some members of our crew.
It was then time for the loom and the head to be connected to each other. The photo below shows these connecting "lines" being installed. Each line is controlled individually by the jacquard head and has a corresponding warp thread that it either lifts or lowers, depending on the pattern. This allows each warp thread on a jacquard loom to work independently - ultimately, this means the patterning capabilities of a jacquard loom are limitless!
Before we could actually weave on the loom, the warps needed to be tied in. There are two warps involved in our matelasse weaving: a top warp and a bottom warp. After being tied on, the ends from both warps needed to be brought to the front of the loom, where they are drawn through the loom reed in a specific sequence. This is known as sleying the reed. The reed separates the warp threads during weaving, and it also beats the weft (or horizontal threads in weaving) into place.
Finally, we were ready to test weave! Can you guess which one of our matelasse bedspreads we started with?
Interested in learning more about our manufacturing process? Follow our sister page Maine Heritage Weavers on Facebook and Instagram!
]]>While we wish we could share them all, we received so many entries that if we did, this blog post would be a novel - so for today, we chose 5 that we think wonderfully represent the gamut of our products today (and yesterday!).
A vintage heirloom Martha Washington's Choice (inherited from this customer's grandmother) shares a room with a brand new Martha bedspread in this photo submission - so cool! Our Martha Washington's Choice Bedspread has been in production since 1940, and we're proud to continue to manufacture it today.
We love how this bedframe compliments our elegant Abigail Adams Cotton Matelasse Bedspread. Just beautiful!
It never ceases to amaze us how long our products last if properly cared for. Since we no longer make this vibrant "Bates Clipper Ship" design, we had to dig into our archives to find out when it was first manufactured (answer: we found it in a Bates sales pamphlet from 1950 - pictured below!). This one still looks in beautiful shape, and the color is unbelievable.
Be sure to brush up on How to Care for Bates Bedspreads & Blankets so that you can keep your Bates looking its best!
We couldn't help but share this photo of our Americana Cotton Matelasse Coverlet. How cute! The quilted wall hanging perfectly complements the geometric starburst pattern of this midcentury design, and the little bear is absolutely adorable.
Our Kineo American Cotton Blanket is a favorite among pet owners. Look at this happy kitty! The Kineo has a flat, durable weave that holds up best to those sharp little claws.
We hope you enjoyed this small selection of photos from our "Show Us Your Bates" photo contest. If you'd like to participate in future contests, giveaways, and pre-sales, please sign up for our newsletter - we love our subscribers!
]]>Our Americana Bedspread is classified as a “midweight” bedspread, making it a great year-round choice or perfect for the transitional months of spring or fall.
Here’s what people are saying about the Americana Cotton Matelasse Bedspread:
We absolutely adore this festive, heavyweight terry bedspread. Originally released in the 70’s, our Spirit of America Cotton Bedspread continues to be a showstopping piece for your bedroom 50 years later!
Here’s what people are saying about the Spirit of America Cotton Bedspread:
Just because winter is coming doesn’t mean that you can’t have flowers in your room year-round! Our bestselling coverlet for the fall months is our Lisa’s Choice Coverlet. Like the Americana Bedspread, its midweight classification makes this American made coverlet ideal for those in between seasons. Want to keep it on your bed all winter? Pair it with one of our machine washable cotton blankets for extra warmth.
Did you know?
The Lisa’s Choice pattern is a modern twist on our famous Queen Elizabeth Cotton Matelasse Bedspread, which was originally released in the 1950’s. Can you spot the same flower motifs used in both designs?
The newest edition to our blanket collection is our colorful Herringbone Cotton Blanket. This heavyweight blanket is our cuddliest, softest blanket yet - perfect for those crisp fall evenings! We especially love it in Linen or Brick (pictured) as an addition to your autumn decor.
Did you know?
The Herringbone Blanket, like all of our American Made Blankets, is made with cotton that is grown and spun in the USA.
Last but not least, we couldn't discuss our fall best sellers without touching upon this seasonal sensation - the Haunted Harvest Matelasse Cotton Throw. This original Bates fan favorite is sometimes released in limited quantities during the fall months...spooky.
Don't want to miss out on getting one for yourself? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to be alerted when the Haunted Harvest comes back into production.
]]>Fall foliage in Monmouth Maine, current home to Bates Mill Store and manufacturing facility.
Although we still have some beautiful, warm summer days left in Maine, August starts bringing in those crisp mornings that remind us fall is around the corner! Whether it fills you with excitement or dread, the fall season often ushers in thoughts and plans for returning to the classroom. Today, we're sharing some of our favorite Bates back-to-school advertisements and stories from the past.
A clever cover for a Bates sales pamphlet in Fall '44.
Bates College in 1906. Source: Wikipedia
Located just down the road from the original Bates Mill Complex, Bates College is a private, liberal arts college and one of Maine's best. The founder of Bates Manufacturing Co., Benjamin Bates, co-founded the college in 1855. Over the next few years, Bates' donations to the college valued over $250,000 and the college was renamed "Bates College" in his honor in 1863. Bates College was the first coeducational college in New England, going on to confer the first female undergraduate degree in the area.
Photo from a 1941 Bates sales pamphlet
One of our most prized advertisements in Bates history is the one below featuring President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush while they were still college students. Unbeknownst to Bates at the time of the ad campaign in 1948, this couple would later become the president and first lady of the United States.
"The Room that Came to School in a Trunk! College Tested, College Approved!"
Happy July! Summers in Maine are spectacular. Whether you're a local or just up for a visit, now's the time to be fully soaking up the great outdoors. One of Maine's biggest draws is our "camp" lifestyle. Maine camps are defined fairly loosely, but to most of us Mainers, a "camp" refers to a recreational summer home that is usually near the water. Many out-of-staters own summer lakeside homes here as well. Maine camps are also a popular summertime vacation destination. Getting a rural Maine cabin rental for a week or two can make for an enjoyable escape.
In this blog, we'll be covering some of our top American Made picks for Maine camp decor - of course, we can't make this list without including our one-and-only Martha Washington's Choice Bedspread, featured on Maine Cabin Masters!
What's a camp getaway without some relaxing seating? We love these classic, made in the USA rocking chairs by Dixie Seating Co. Constructed out of ash and poplar, these beautiful chairs are available in a ton of colors, so you can pick your favorite!
These casual yet classic braided rugs by Capel Rugs are the perfect thing underfoot in a summer home (or any home, really!). Capel Rugs is a family business that has been making braided rugs since 1917. With over 100 years of heritage in every rug, you know you're getting an expertly made product that will last for years and years.
Although Maine camps and cottages aren't always small, they're usually on the smaller side - which means you'll need some good storage spots. Cedar chests are known for their natural ability to control odors, humidity, and repel pests. These heirloom quality cedar chests by Amish Handcrafted are perfect for storing your extra bedding, throws, or blankets for cooler summer nights. Plus, they're gorgeous to look at.
Nothing says "vacation" like a lazy, summer morning with a cup of coffee or tea! We love the rustic beauty of these custom Live Edge Coffee Tables by Lancaster Live Edge. Lancaster Live Edge is a family-owned business and is the sister company of Beiler's Sawmill in Lancaster, PA, where their live edge slabs are milled. Each table is completely unique and truly an exquisite piece of heirloom furniture.
When it comes to bedding, our heirloom quality bedspreads and blankets are beautiful and deeply rooted in Maine's textile history. Our Wedgewood Martha Washington's Choice Bedspread was chosen by Maine Cabin Masters to use in their renovations of two rustic cabins in Gardiner, Maine.
Be sure to follow us on social media to be alerted about re-airings of the episode we were featured on, "A Legacy Preserved" on the Magnolia Network!
Image Credit: Maine Cabin Masters
Do you have a Maine camp or like to summer here? We hope you found this list of American Made decor pieces informative! Tell us about your favorite Maine camp memories or American Made furniture pieces in the comments below.
]]>June is also Martha Washington's birthday month - Happy Birthday Martha! In celebration of her birthday on June 2nd, we've gathered a collection of vintage Bates ads through the decades featuring our famous Martha Washington's Choice Cotton Bedspread.
We hope you enjoy this look through this classic style's history!
1941
Originally called "George Washington's Choice," the Martha was released in 1940. It was the first loom-woven terry bedspread of its kind, thanks to the perseverance and ingenuity of the Bates team at the time. The above advertisement is from a sales pamphlet from 1941. On another page it reads:
"America Recaptures a Lost Weaving Art: Bates craftsmen have recaptured for America and for the world a weaving art lost since the 18th century! This achievement had made possible stitch-by-stitch duplication of a famous American museum piece exhibited at Mt. Vernon. Bates proudly presents 'George Washington's Choice'".
1944
The original bedspread featuring this design was a wedding gift from George Washington to his bride, Martha.
1949
Reads another sales pamphlet from 1949:
"Bates George Washington's Choice reproduces faithfully the priceless hand-woven coverlets that once graced aristocratic colonial homes, that are now museum pieces. The original weave itself, older than Christianity, was lost when textile machinery replaced skilled hand weavers over a hundred years ago. In George Washington's Choice, Bates has recaptured this lost weaving art...has produced the most beautiful bedspread of our time, a collector's item in its own right."
1950
In 1950, Bates - established in 1850 by Benjamin Bates - celebrated 100 years. The beloved Martha (then George Washington's Choice) was the focal point of their 100-year advertisement. Around this time, the Martha Washington's Choice became a popular wedding gift.
1955: The one, the only...George Washington's Choice. "Loomed to be Heirloomed"
The 1960s saw a slightly more scandalous advertising campaign streak showcasing glamorous women wrapped in Bates bedspreads. One of our favorites has always been this Martha advertisement from that era - "Romantic Enough to Wear."
In 1969, Bates put out a "Bates Decorating Guide and Catalog". This handbook cleverly doubled as a product catalog and interior decorating handbook. It included tips about choosing color schemes, selecting furniture, and arranging the space - all centered around the idea that the "bedspread is the keynote of [the] entire decorating scheme."
Photo of the Martha from the 1969 Bates Decorating Guide and Catalog.
By the 1970s and 80s, other variations of the Martha design were coming into the picture. A 1982 catalog featured the Martha Washington's Choice as both a bedspread (above) and coverlet (below). While we're not sure if this was the first appearance of the Martha as a coverlet, it's the first that we have on record. Today, we still offer the Martha as a bedspread and as a coverlet.
1982: The Martha Washington Coverlet
And of course, it wouldn't have been the glorious 80s without a Martha Washington's Choice Waterspread (a bedspread for your waterbed!).
The Martha Washington's Choice "Waterspread".
Ever since its initial release over 80 years ago, the Martha Washington's Choice has been a steadfast favorite. Not only does it represent the heirloom quality that we have always been famous for, but it also incapsulates the innovative spirit of Bates that has allowed us to bring the craft of creating quality, American made textiles into the modern era. Today, we're proud to continue manufacturing this truly iconic Bates style, among many others!
CUTTING: After the weavers move the rolls to the finishing area, a team of two cutters load the rolls onto the cutting table. Each Beach Blanket is then measured and cut with a special round fabric knife before being staged on tables for the stitchers.
STITCHING: Once a stack of Beach Blankets have been cut, they are given to the stitchers for hemming. The stitchers will then hem each blanket and load them into a basket for the wash room.WASHING: Once a stitcher fills a basket with Beach Blankets, the basket will be wheeled over to the washroom to be washed and dried in our industrial machines. Once the blankets are dry, they'll be sent to the final production area - inspection, folding and packaging.
MEET THE CRAFTSWOMAN
Diane is our most senior stitcher and has been with Bates for almost two decades. She specializes in applying the fringe to our bedspreads - which takes some real talent because she has to guide the fringe and fabric into the sewing machine at the same time for a seamless hem and stitch.
INSPECTION: Once the Beach Blankets come out of the dryer, they are sent to folding where teams of two will inspect each blanket checking for flaws. Flaws that can be fixed are repaired and flaws that cannot are marked as Factory Seconds and sold at a discount in our outlet store at the factory.
FOLDING: If the blankets pass inspection, they are then folded and packaged by the inspectors prior to going to shipping.
SHIPPING: This is the final step in production when the blankets are labeled and shipped to customers. Most of our 2023 Beach Blanket presale orders have been shipped, and we plan to finish the remaining orders this week.
MEET THE CRAFTSWOMEN
Shannon (left) and Michelle (right) are inspection partners. They work together to inspect each item, making sure that it meets our high standards, before folding and packaging them by hand. We have three full-time folding/inspection teams.
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We hope you enjoyed learning about how our 2023 Bates Beach Blankets are made! Still have questions about our manufacturing process? Ask away in the comments below!
Recently we had someone ask for some ideas on how to best store and display their throw blankets. Today, we're sharing our 5 favorite methods, featuring other Maine makers like us!
Both of these beautiful blanket chests are perfect for storing your extra bedding. They're roomy enough to hold everything, including your largest American made cotton bedspreads from Bates! Plus, we love the fact that these can double as an elegant end table.
Shoreline Blanket Chest - Maine Woodworks
Hannah Blanket Chest - Maine Cottage
If you'd like your beloved blankets and throws to be more visible, roll them up in a cute basket and showcase them as part of your decor. Make sure to choose a basket that works with the rest of your home. This Lobster Rope Storage Basket comes in tons of funky colors and would look great in a nautical themed home (pair this basket with our Cape Cod Matelasse Cotton Throw)! Or check out Baskets by Dot for something a little more traditional.
Laundry Basket - Baskets by Dot
Maybe you like the idea of using a blanket chest to stash your American made bedding, but prefer the cool look of antique trunk? Connie's Trunks restores antique trunks in a variety of sizes so you can choose which one might work best for you!
Antique Trunks - Connie’s Trunks
Blanket ladders are one of the best ways to display all of your cotton throw blankets at once in an organized manner. Add an oceanic vibe to your home this summer with this unique, handcrafted Driftwood Blanket Ladder by Salty Girl. How very Maine!
Driftwood Blanket Ladder - Salty Girl
Another fun way to show off your gorgeous throw and blanket collection is by hanging them on hooks! Black Dog Iron Works and Wicks Forge both fabricate beautiful hooks in different styles, depending on your preference.
Hand Forged Iron Wall Hooks - Black Dog Iron Works
Hand Forged Decorative Hooks - Wick’s Forge
We hope you got some great blanket storage and display ideas from our list! Maybe you even found a few new Maine businesses to check out. If you have a favorite way to organize and/or showcase your favorite Bates made in USA throws and blankets, let us know in the comments. As always, thank you for supporting local businesses like us!
]]>First, we'll cover our favorite spring bedspreads! This cute, minimal terry bedspread may have the word "snow" in its name, but its mid weight class makes it the perfect choice for a breathable cotton bedspread when transitioning from cool to warm nights. Plus, the adorable dot pattern is so timeless that it works for any season! We love the Snowdrop in Wedgewood Blue and Linen for spring color bedding (pictured).
Fun fact: in 2019, the Snowdrop Bedspread made Amy Sedaris's list of 50 things she can’t live without in New York Magazine.
Our Colonial Rose Cotton Matelasse Bedspread features a vintage floral pattern making it the perfect matelasse spring bedspread. Originally released in the 1950s, this style is one of our older designs, making it a unique choice for the bedroom. Additionally, this lightweight bedspread is not as heavy as our other matelasse bedspreads. Use it alone with a top sheet in warmer months, or pair it with some of our cotton blankets to use this versatile bedspread year round.
One of our all-time favorite coverlets we produce is the Americana Cotton Matelasse Coverlet. Simple, bright, and nostalgic, this midweight coverlet is a workhorse throughout all seasons and in most climates. If you enjoy vintage cottage decor and Americana design themes, you'll never want to take it off your bed!
We also offer the Americana Cotton Coverlet as a traditional full length bedspread. Create a matching set by ordering a set of Americana Pillow Shams.
Looking for spring blankets? This softly cabled blanket is our go-to for those awkward seasonal transition months. While it's lighter weight than our other blanket styles, the Cable Weave Cotton Blanket still provides a good warmth. It pairs wonderfully underneath our American Made coverlets or bedspreads, or can be used on its own as a minimal bed covering. The Cable Weave Blanket also comes in throw sizes if you're looking for cuddly but lightweight throw blankets.
We love our Lisa's Choice Matelasse Cotton Throw for this time of year! Its lovely all-over floral design was directly inspired by our famous Queen Elizabeth Bedspread, which has been in continuous production for over 60 years. This elegant throw is sure to brighten up your living room or bedroom with its springtime vibes.
Did learning about our best selling spring bedding styles get you excited for the warmer months ahead? Let us know if we missed any of your favorites in the comments below!
]]>We are proud to continue to produce this heavyweight terry bedspread at our family-run mill in Maine using the same process that was used to create the very first Bates Martha. Today, we also manufacture the beloved Martha Washington pattern as pillow shams, throw blankets, and as a coverlet. Each of these classic products follow the same path of manufacturing. From building the warps for our looms to packaging and shipping, our team does it all!
From throw blankets to shams, warping is the first stage of the manufacturing process for all of our American made home goods. The "warp" refers to the vertical running threads in any woven fabric. Large warp beams are created with the correct number of warp "ends" and then installed into our industrial looms.
For example, our Martha Washington's Choice is woven with two warp beams. Combined, there are 5,830 warp ends (or vertically running pieces of yarn) in our Martha Washington's Choice Bedspread.
Once the warps are properly installed, it's time to weave! Our Martha Washington's Choice Bedspreads, coverlets, and shams are all woven on our Jacquard terry looms.
After coming off the loom, fabric rolls are brought to the cutting table where they're unrolled and cut to the correct size.
Once the fabric is cut, it goes to our talented stitchers. Depending on the style, fringe or plain hems are added. If you own one of our terry bedspreads, you may notice that the bedspread in the video below has a slightly different texture than what you're used to. That's because the yarn changes quite a bit after the first wash, also called wet finishing.
Before heading to inspection, all of our products are "wet finished" in our wash room. "Wet finishing" is really just a fancy term for washing raw yarns for the first time. This helps shrink and puff the yarns so that our bedspreads and blankets are soft and fluffy.
The power of proper wet finishing is illustrated well in these photos of our Martha Washington's Choice design. On the left is the unwashed fabric, and on the right is the fabric after wet finishing!
Finally, all of our products are carefully inspected one by one before being shipped to your home to be enjoyed - like this beautiful Martha Washington's Choice Cotton Throw!
We hope you enjoyed this overview for how we make the items in our famous Martha Washington's Choice Collection. If you did, be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more inside looks on how our products are made!
]]>Image Credit: Getty Images
It's January in Maine, notoriously the coldest month of the year. Luckily, blankets are our specialty! If you're looking for warm, made in USA winter bedding to keep you cozy this winter, we've got a list of our best sellers this season. Read on to meet our winter bedding favorites!
First up is our famous Martha Washington's Choice Bedspread. This beloved heavyweight bedspread is not only our #1 best seller in the winter, but also year-round! Originally launched by Bates in 1940, this gorgeous, nostalgic design brings back sweet memories of the popular chenille bedspreads of years' past. If you're searching for heirloom quality cotton bedspreads, the Martha Washington's Choice is top of the line.
The Queen Elizabeth Matelasse Bedspread is not only elegant, but incredibly heavy and warm. This iconic Bates style has been in continuous production for over 60 years. Our matelasse bedspreads are made with 100% cotton, so they keep you toasty at night while still being breathable!
If traditional bedspreads aren't quite your style, maybe a sleek coverlet is more your speed? Unlike our bedspreads, our cotton coverlets offer a shorter drop and (in most cases) a plain hem for a more contemporary fit. Our Diamond Matelasse Cotton Coverlet is a favorite in the winter months due to its heavy weight class and clean design.
While all of our heavyweight American made blankets are cold-weather worthy, our Lattice Cotton Blanket takes the cake. This cushy, warm blanket is thick and cozy with a unique waffle texture. One of our best selling winter blankets, the Lattice Blanket is sure to keep you warm all winter long.
Full sized blankets are great for your bed, but what if you need an extra layer to snuggle up in on the couch? Enter our cotton throws. The Kineo Cotton Throw Blanket is a heavyweight throw blanket with an extra durable plain weave construction. Loved for their simplicity, ruggedness, and fun pop of color, the Kineo Throw is a fantastic addition to any living room.
We hope you've enjoyed learning more about each of our bestselling winter bedding options! Do you have a favorite Bates bedspread or blanket that comes out each winter? Let us know in the comments below!
Perhaps our most well-known style is the Martha Washington's Choice, which has been in production since 1940. The Martha was the first hobnail bedspread to ever be produced on a mechanical loom.
With its nostalgic terry weave, the Martha Washington's Choice Throw can add a beautiful, textural touch to your living room or bedroom. Many people remember hobnail or popcorn chenille bedspreads like these on their grandparent's beds growing up. Today, people are welcoming these types of generational heirloom pieces into their home decorating schemes. As a throw, this gorgeous pattern isn't confined to the bed - use it as a cozy and inviting accent anywhere in your home!
Beloved for its subtle, coastal theme that mixes with any decor, our Cape Cod design was originally introduced in the 1970s. This steadfast favorite is still in production today. Both beautiful and useful, the Cape Cod Throw is a perfect gift for friends or family to enjoy in their homes.
As our lives and brains get busier and busier, many people are turning to simpler, more considered ways of decorating their homes. Pare down your accessories collection and display what you truly love! The Cape Cod Throw will always offer a space of serenity with its structured, coastal simplicity.
Our Spirit of America Cotton Throw features a geometric starburst pattern inspired by Native American woven textiles. Originally introduced by Bates in the 1970s, the Spirit of America pattern makes an especially beautiful vintage style throw that will be a sure show-stopper in your home.
While stunning in every color, Spirit's traditional hobnail weave makes it the perfect candidate for tone-on-tone textural layering on the bed or couch. Winter calls for us to want our home spaces to feel cozy, lived in, and warm - and what better way to do that with lots of cozy layers?
The Abigail Adams Bedspread was first released in 1976 during the celebration of the United States Bicentennial. This traditional design was inspired by the handwoven cotton quilts that President John Adams used while serving abroad as a diplomat in France.
Beautifully elegant, the Abigail Adams Throw has an old-fashioned vibe that fits right in with the Winter 2023 home decor tend forecasting - we're still enjoying traditional, well-made, nostalgic pieces that remind us of yesteryear. Adding this gorgeous throw to your collection will not only serve you for this winter, but for many future winters to come!
Originally introduced by Bates in the 1950s, the Colonial Rose design features a flowing, mirrored arrangement of blossoms and palm leaves. This enduring matelasse pattern makes for a beautiful vintage-style throw that will add a pop of nature to your home.
A continued interest in showcasing natural materials and bringing plant life into our homes follows us into Winter 2023. The Colonial Rose Matelasse Cotton Throw is a gorgeous piece that reminds us of greenery, even during the dark days of winter.
We hope you enjoyed learning a little bit more about some of our most iconic designs. If you have a favorite Bates throw, we'd love to hear about it. To view all of our throws, please visit our American Made Cotton Throw Blanekt Collection. Feel free to tell us your story in the comments!
]]>Perhaps our most popular blanket, the George Washington's Choice Blanket comes in six different colors which match our classic bedspreads. It is also our heaviest blanket, so if you are looking for something with a little more heft, the GWC is a good one to go for.
Mark says,
"When the blanket arrived and I opened the box I said Wow. I was impressed by the quality of the workmanship. A very attractive blanket, so well made and most importantly it is warm! I would highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for blankets."
Reasons to love our GWC Blanket: Heaviest blanket, more color choices!
If you're looking for something a little more sleek, the Cathedral Blanket might be the one for you. With a modern but still decorative weave, this blanket can fit in with any decor style - just choose whether you want it in white or natural cotton. One customer uses this blanket on his bed alone with just a top sheet, as a "minimalist bedspread."
Says Rose,
"I bought the king size Cathedral Blanket in antique for our Queen bed. This eliminates the fight over blankets between hubby and myself! It is absolutely gorgeous! Beautifully woven, with secure stitching on the hems. The weave is very tight and it is considerably heavier than one would think of in a thermal blanket. I wouldn't even use that term for this blanket--it is better made! It should last for years!"
Reasons to love our Cathedral Blanket: Decorative but modern weave, minimalist.
If you have pets or kids, you may be putting an extra layer (we crack ourselves up!) of thought into choosing a blanket. For people with fur babies, the Kineo Woven Blanket is usually our first suggestion. Its tightly woven tabby weave allows for fewer pulls and snags. The Kineo Woven Blanket is available in four colors, and features a classic but fun stripe pattern (which is great for kids' rooms!).
Lisa writes,
"This is my first Kineo Woven Blanket purchase in Linen color (great neutral). I'm ordering another, has nice tight woven durable texture, and perfect weight, not too heavy or too light. THANKS DORIS for your suggestion and wonderful customer service - you and the girls in the warehouse were right - my doggies love it too!"
And Deanna reports,
"This blanket was for my toddler, who was transitioning to a toddler bed...my toddler can't wait to use it as a top layer in winter. She loves the stripe design, as do I."
Reasons to love our Kineo Blanket: Several color choices, best choice for people with pets, simplest weave, fun stripe design.
The Basketweave Blanket is fairly new to our collection, but it is quickly becoming a favorite. Available in classic white or natural cotton, the Basket Weave features a slightly more decorative weave than the Kineo but it has a similar feel and weight. If you'd like something simple but with a hint of interest, the Basket Weave might be your choice.
Dennis says,
"Enjoying this blanket which is tightly woven, heavy and warm between the sheet and bed cover. Very high quality made product."
Reasons to love our Basketweave Blanket: A rising favorite with a subtle yet more decorative weave than Kineo, only available in white and natural.
The most recent addition to our blanket collection is the Lattice Blanket. If you want something weighty but still breathable, this one may be right up your alley. Plus, waffle blankets are all all over the home decor world right now!
Writes Nancy,
"I was looking for a white blanket that was made in the USA when I purchased this "Lattice Blanket". I love the new blanket...it is everything I was looking for, and am so happy to support this American company. I highly recommend!"
Reasons to love our Lattice Blanket: Breathable with a waffly, cushy texture but heavier in feel.
Don't know exactly what a loved one wants in a blanket? Let them pick their own this season with a Bates Gift Card.
Reasons to love our Gift Cards: Can be used on anything in the store, never expire!
We hope this run-down of our available blanket styles will help inspire you as you get your bedroom ready for the colder months. If you already have one (or several!) Bates blankets, which ones did you choose, and for what reason? What do you love about the particular style(s) you have? We'd love to hear your feedback in the comments below!
]]>Bed by @restoring_home
We'd all love to have our bedrooms look as incredible as the ones we see in home decor magazines or blogs. Luckily, it's not too difficult to learn how to make up your bed like a pro. In this article, we'll discuss our 5 steps to bed styling success, and each tip will be paired with a fun photo to help get you inspired. We'll be featuring some of our favorite home stylists active on Instagram, so get ready to fall in love with some amazing bedrooms!
Bed by @stylizimoblog
If you don’t want to iron your sheets, remove them from the dryer as soon as possible to prevent wrinkles. When purchasing sheets, choose ones based on feel and personal comfort rather than thread count or material - it's your bed, so you should be comfortable!
Bed by @nataliemyers
Add a breathable blanket or two over the top sheet, depending on the climate and season.
"Do it with Bates" Pick: Kineo Woven Blanket
Bed by @hunted_interior
Are you a bedspread or a duvet person? Whichever one you prefer, the topper sets the tone for your bedroom, so choose one that you like!
Because of their interesting textures and layer-ability (see step 2, layer blankets!) many home decorators are turning toward more “old-fashioned” bedcovers, like our bedspreads and coverlets, to spruce up their bedrooms in interesting, inviting ways. The options are endless.
"Do it with Bates" Picks: Diamond Matelassè Coverlet or Americana Coverlet (pictured here in Linen)
Bed by @designthusiasm
While there are no strict rules for pillow placement, there is a formula that never fails! Place your regular sleeping pillows against the headboard first, then place European shams, if you use them. Standard shams come next, in front of the Euro shams. Finish off the look with a few smaller accent pillows. @designthusiasm highlights a variety of textures in her white-on-white setup.
"Do it with Bates" Picks: Diamond Matelassè Sham or Martha Washington's Choice Shams in white.
Beds by @studiomcgee
Place a folded throw or thin quilt at the end of the bed for a final touch. Check out this sweet children's bedroom!
"Do it with Bates" Pick: Spirit of America (pictured in white).
We hope you enjoyed these styling tips! Have a picture of your beautiful bed featuring Bates? Share it with us on Instagram by tagging us @batesmillstore.
]]>If you follow emerging home decorating trends, you may have noticed a style called “Grandmillenial” appearing over the past couple of years. Also called “granny chic” this trend embraces everything familiar and nostalgic, while finding new ways to style “older” or more traditional pieces into your home. Especially popular among Millennials, or people between 25-40 (hence the name "Grandmillenial") this trend is taking the internet over by storm as younger generations endearingly turn to "old fashioned" ways of styling interiors.
While the beauty and quality of our products surpasses trend, we got a kick out of putting together an official Bates "Grandmillenial Starter Pack"! Read on to see our top picks.
First up on the list is obviously our fabulous Martha Washington's Choice Coverlet. While the terry weave and design are both beautifully nostalgic, the shorter length and cute ball fringe add an element of hipness. Add shams if you'd like!
Even if you don't have one of our Snowdrop Bedspreads, these adorable pillow shams can be added to any bed for a stylish pop of texture! They're available in 6 different colors, so it's easy to coordinate with any color scheme.
We've covered the bedroom, but how about the living room? Our matelassé Lisa's Choice Throw is decked out with an all-over floral pattern that's just as sweet as your grandmother's couch. Toss this mid-weight throw over a chair for an instant blast into the past!
Our Lattice Blanket has a slightly more modern look, but it's lofty, waffle texture and solid color allow it to easily fit into any interior. Plus, it's a great balancer if you have more densely decorated objects in the same room.
Last but not least, we're including our Abigail Throw on this list. The Abigail is one of our older styles, based around an elaborately decorated floral medallion. Even at its smaller scale, the throw includes the whole medallion, giving the elegant nature of this design a hint of adorableness.
We hope you enjoyed our fun list of "Grandmillenial" picks! We love that our products can be found trendy by every generation. Here's to many more years of Bates style!
]]>A vintage advertisement for Martha Washington's Choice, pulled from Bates archives.
In recent years, that thought has been changing. Interior design trends are embracing unique, artisan weaves that showcase natural materials and the hand of the weaver. Lush rooms with lots of pattern and texture play are replacing the clean, minimal interiors of a few years ago. There is a renewed interest in craft, driven by a desire to reconnect with where our objects come from, and who made them.
One of our Bates stitchers assembling Martha pillow shams.
Interestingly, the original creation story of the Martha Washington's Choice bedspread is similarly inspired - even though it was so long ago. On a visit to George Washington's estate, a Bates representative was struck by the beauty of a bedspread he saw there. It was woven entirely by hand, using an ancient knot-weaving technique, but he was determined to see if it could be recreated at Bates. Bates designers and loom technicians were indeed able to resurrect the technique, and two years later the first Martha Washington's Choices were in production. Although the fabric was mechanically woven, its nubbly texture honored the craft of hand weavers hundreds of years before.
Martha Washington's Choice weaving on our looms today.
Incorporating high texture textiles (like our terry bedspreads or throws) into your home can add subtle, elegant visual interest without being overwhelming. They also add warmth to a room and make it feel inviting. In 2021, we want to see and feel the hand of the maker in what we buy and use everyday. Our Martha Washington's Choice, and other styles in our terry collection, have truly become heirloom textiles fit for the modern home.
]]>Here at Bates, we truly believe in making quality products that can last for generations! We often receive phone calls, emails, and reviews from people who have owned a Bates bedspread for many, many years and continue to enjoy it (side-note: if you are the proud owner of an antique Bates bedspread and would like to know how old it is, check out our blogpost "How Old is My Bates Bedspread? How to Estimate the Age of a Bates Bedspread"). Even though our products are built to last, proper care can go a long way in helping keep your bedspread, blanket, or throw in tip-top shape. Read on to learn our recommendations for caring for your beloved Bates long-term.
A little goes a long way - even just doing the basics will help ensure that your bedspread or blanket has a long life! Brush up on our general care tips (for Bates items new and old) here. We also provide suggestions for tackling stain removal, and list some storage tips. Luckily, our 100% cotton products make washing and drying at home easy!
Cotton is a durable fiber, but it does naturally pill a little bit with washing. Extra fuzz from shedding cotton fibers is most common with blankets, since the yarns are chunkier and more loosely spun. We've put together an extensive guide for reducing pilling and lint on cotton blankets and bedspreads, which we'd encourage any Bates owner to read. It's important to note that any pilling should reduce with each successive wash/dry cycle, too. While drying, we recommend emptying the dryer lint trap several times to allow maximum removal of the excess fibers each cycle.
In our current "throwaway" consumer culture, it can be tempting to toss something out as soon as it's a little worn. We are strong proponents of encouraging people to care for their Bates products so that they'll be around for a long time - and sometimes that means taking on a repair project or two!
HOLES: If you have an antique Bates bedspread still in use, you may have a hole or two you'd like to fix. For some detailed instructions on mending holes, check out our blogpost "How to Fix a Woven Bedspread or Blanket". These tips may be especially useful if you have a Matelassé bedspread, coverlet, or throw that needs attention.
PULLS: Terry bedspreads and some looser-weave blankets have weave structures that make snagging more likely. If you get a noticeable snag or pull, you can get it back into place yourself fairly easily. To do this, grab the material several inches on either side of the pull (in the direction of the pulled thread) and give some firm tugs. Then, using tweezers, slowly work the pulled loop back into the fabric. We've made a video describing this process using terry fabric, but the same process applies to a blanket pull.
Caring for and repairing your things not only helps reduce the amount of waste going into landfills (the EPA estimates that landfills received 11.3 million tons of MSW [municipal solid waste] textiles in 2018), but many feel that it's beneficial psychologically, too.
We love this graphic, "Top 10 Reasons to Mend" from Visible Mending. "Visible Mending" is a popular trend in clothing, so why not bring it into the realm of home textiles?
In conclusion, our Bates products are built to last, but to truly become a family heirloom they'll need a little help to look and perform their best! We hope this guide to caring for (and possibly repairing) your bedspread or blanket will help you in your mission to keep it in your home for(almost)ever.
]]>Photo Credit: Lifekind
Lifekind's Certified Organic Cotton Pillows come in 3 different firmnesses (light, medium, and full) and are available in standard and king sizes. If you have a Bates bedspread or coverlet (or even if you don't!) you can purchase sham covers to complete your set with these pillows. All of their items are handmade in California at their Eco-Factory.
Photo Credit: Maine Bunk Beds
Maine Bunk Beds is dedicated to handcrafting custom wooden beds for kids and adults that are toxin-free and eco-friendly. Their workshop is located in Buxton, Maine. Pictured here is their Maine Camp Bed in a Queen size.
Photo Credit: Maine Cottage
This adorable, Shaker-inspired bedside table offered by Maine Cottage is made-to-order and available in a very large variety of colors. Maine Cottage partners with woodworkers, upholsterers, and painters across America to create their furniture. And each piece is signed by the craftsperson who made it!
Photo Credit: NoEnd Designs
If you're in the market for a floor or table lamp, NoEnd Designs creates uniquely beautiful lamps with wooden shades. Their light fixtures are handcrafted in their workshop in Atlanta, GA. They keep their production volume low to ensure the lamps they make are only of the finest quality. Pictured here is the Slatewood Arc Table Lamp with a Birdseye Maple shade.
Last but not least on our list are our very own woven blankets (pictured here is our heaviest blanket option, the George Washington's Choice Blanket). Use one of our blankets as an extra layer with a comforter, bedspread, or coverlet, or just by itself with a top sheet for warmer nights!
Do you have any awesome home furnishings that are made in the USA you'd like to share? Spread the love by dropping your favorites in the comments below!
]]>Five Islands Body Co.'s skincare products are made in small batches without any toxic ingredients. Maine-made ingredients are used whenever possible, and the packaging was designed by a Maine artist!
If you enter the AP Curiosities online shop, you will find an interesting collection of whimsical handmade artisan goods inspired by nature. We love their large jellyfish air planters!
Elves and Angles has been specializing in heirloom quality wooden toys for over 30 years. Made in Machias Maine, this 350 Piece Deluxe Building Set contains two forts, with building directions and extra pieces to allow for creativity.
Photo credit: Elves and Angels, 350 Piece Deluxe Building Set pictured.
Of course we have to include ourselves on this list! Give the gift of warmth and choice this holiday season with a Bates gift card.
Many families in Maine have wood stoves, so someone on your list might appreciate a heavy duty log carrier by Brant and Cochran. They'll also service old axes, so if a loved one has a favorite ax that needs sprucing up, they're the ones to call. They're located in South Portland, Maine.
This gift is for those cold, snowy mornings when no one wants to get out of bed! Maine Heritage Timber's beautiful products are made from wood they've salvaged from the bottom of the Penobscot River. Because of this, every piece has a unique character. We're featuring their Breakfast in Bed Tray, but they also make cheese boards, bread boards, and cool floating shelves.
Photo credit: Maine Heritage Timber, Breakfast in Bed Tray pictured.
Let's not forget about the furry family members on your list! Silver Paw Tags makes hand-casted, customizable stainless steel pet tags that are chew and bend proof. For your feline friends, have no fear: Dr. Pussums is here! Their festive Nip Nog Party Pack is filled with treats that will drive your kitties wild.
Photo credit: Silver Paw Pet Tags, Stainless Steel Bone ID Tag pictured.
Photo credit: Dr. Pussums, Nip Nog Party Pack pictured.
We hope you found some great Maine-Made options on our 2020 Holiday Gift Guide! Do you have any favorite local places for holiday shopping to add? We'd love to hear from you: drop your go-to local and small businesses in the comments below!
]]>Photo Credit: Lewiston Sun Journal
With most holiday shopping moving entirely online this year, it’s more important than ever to intentionally seek out small businesses and American-made goods in the noise of cyber space. American-made products are often a little more expensive, which we understand could be more difficult to back in these times of financial hardship. However, there are many reasons why spending a little extra on local products goes a long way to help us as a country, and you as a consumer. We hope you enjoy and are inspired by our list of reasons to buy American made products this holiday season.
By buying American-made gifts, your dollar is:
According to the National Association of Manufacturers, for every $1.00 spent on manufacturing, $2.74 is added back into our economy. Furthermore, every person working in manufacturing is creating 5 jobs in other industries - that means that an American manufacturer's impact on the economy spreads far beyond their own value chain.
Read more of NAM's manufacturing facts here.
The Alliance for American Manufacturing notes,
"For years, the U.S. economy has relied on cheap imports, as many corporations opted to shift production overseas...but all that offshoring led to tens of thousands of factory closures and millions of lost jobs."
A 2018 article from the Pew Research center illustrates that America's middle class is stable in size, but the income gap between it and upper-income households continues to widen. In 2018, the Pew Research Center estimates that 52% of American adults were middle class, 29% lower class, and only 19% upper class. By purchasing American made, you are helping to support middle and lower income workers (according to the 2018 data, that's 81% of us!) and their families.
The coronavirus pandemic has taught us how critical it is for a country to be able to manufacture things quickly and independently. In their article, the Alliance for American Manufacturing points out that "the economic devastation [of moving production overseas] has been covered extensively, of course. What has gone largely unnoticed is the impact offshoring had on America’s critical supply chain, and its ability to make the things it needs in a crisis." As a consumer, you can help encourage reliance on our own supply chains by putting money directly in the hands of manufacturers who have the same goal.
Made in America products are known for their quality. By maintaining complete control of their product, American manufacturers know what goes into every step of production. They can ensure the use of hand-picked materials, maintain safe working conditions, and creatively solve problems that may arise along the way. When production moves overseas, companies are sadly removed from the creation of their own goods. When buying American made, you can be assured that you are getting a product that has been considered each step of the way. In addition, high quality items made in the U.S.A last longer, and which saves money in the long run.
American manufacturers adhere to strict laws that keep their employees healthy and safe. This is not always the case elsewhere. The Unites States also has rigid environmental protection laws that manufacturers must abide by (you can learn more about regulations in American manufacturing industries here). Buying from American manufacturers who are operating under these laws is a much more sustainable and humane choice than having your dollars go towards companies who may not comply to similar practices.
We are in unprecedented times, and it's more important now than ever to show your love and support to friends, family, and fellow Americans. The holidays may feel different this year, but the spirit can be stronger than ever. We hope our list might inspire you to seek out local businesses when purchasing gifts for you loved ones. Your dollar will be allowing another American family to do the same!
]]>If you already have some Bates items in your collection, then you'll know our premium cotton blankets last season after season with the proper care. But if you're looking for some new options this winter, or want to add another heavyweight American-made blanket to your home, here's a list of our 5 favorite Bates styles for the cold season.
A true classic, the George Washington's Choice blanket is one of our heaviest blankets. It's thick, warm, and comes in several color options. If you're looking for winter bedding blankets, shop our bedding sizes (available in Twin, Full/Queen, and King). George Washington's Choice is also available in throw sizes, and makes a perfect heavyweight throw blanket to pair with your favorite chair or couch.
A fairly new addition to the Bates collection, our Lattice blanket is sure to become a winter favorite. This woven cotton blanket has a unique, cushy texture that makes it extra cuddly while still being breathable. Pictured in pure, snowy white, the Lattice Blanket also comes in Natural if you want a warmer tone.
If texture is your thing, a heavyweight terry option might be for you! Our Spirit of America throw truly lives up to its name. Like the rest of our products, this beautiful and nostalgic cotton throw is manufactured right here in the USA by a small, passionate team of family and friends. Spirit of America is also available as a bedspread.
If you're looking for something a little more modern to cover you on cold nights, our Cathedral blanket could be your choice. Sleek while still being warm and sporting a timeless chevron pattern, this woven blanket is incredibly versatile. Buy a bedding size if you'd like an extra layer while you're sleeping, or grab a throw size to wrap yourself in while watching a movie.
Bring some nature into your home with the Evergreen throw's year-round foliage! This decorative but cozy matelassé throw will spruce up your home for the holidays and beyond. Although technically one of our "mid-weight" cotton throws, the Evergreen throw is still one of our top picks for cold season. Sometimes you just need a little greenery to get you through those long winter nights.
Whether you're looking for a thick winter bedding blanket or a heavy cotton throw blanket, Bates has lots of cold season classics to pick from. We hope you enjoyed this list of our 5 favorites!
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Light up a room! Vermont Lamps creates unique laser cut wooden lamps and nightlights. Custom designs are possible, but we think this jellyfish one is super cool!
There's nothing like a little humor to warm the soul! Zooguu Faux Taxidermy makes these hilarious faux taxidermy heads completely by hand in Massachusettes. Perfect for kids (or the whimsical adult!) these awesome wall trophies will always excite a smile.
Our George Washington's Choice Blankets and throws are our heaviest blanket, so they're perfect for snuggling up on the couch during the cold winter months. Plus, there are several colors available so there's an option for every home decor color scheme!
Based in an old cutlery mill in New Hampshire, Cogworks makes absolutely gorgeous items out of wood, like this delicately engraved Herb Lazy Susan. If you have a home chef you're shopping for, they also make beautiful cutting and cheese boards.
Colonial Mills of Rhode Island is known for its braided rugs, but did you know that they also make unique storage baskets?! This high-contrast basket will pop and add functional flair to any room.
We just love this adorable ring handle coffee scoop from Woodbury Pewter, based in Woodbury, CT. Since it began in 1952, Woodbury Pewter has been handcrafting pewter pieces using the same tools and methods originally used in the in the 18th & 19th centuries.
We hope you enjoyed this list of New England-made gift ideas! If you have your own to add, please share it with us and our readers in the comments below.
]]>If you're shopping for a fellow Maine-ah and they love spending time in the great outdoors, chances are they're into ice fishing. If they are, check out Jack Traps. Each trap is hand crafted in their facility right down the road from us in Monmouth, Maine.
Our Cathedral Throw Blankets make the perfect gift for those who'd rather stay in with a good book than go out - or for those who love beautiful-but-practical accent pieces for their living rooms! These 100% cotton throws are cozy, durable, and feature a classic chevron weave. Prefer more color? Check out all our options in our Throw Collection.
Fiore Artisan Olive Oils and Vinegars opened their first tasting room in Bar Harbor, Maine in 2009. In the last 10 years, they've added 5 more locations around the state, and it's easy to see why. With the most amazing selection of specialty oils and vinegars, the only problem with giving your foodie friend a bottle or two for the holidays means they won't ever be able to by anything else!
Got someone who's always on the go? Seabags Chebeague Weekender Bag is made from recycled sails and is designed to fit most carry-on requirements. Plus, the strap is removable, so this bag can be carried by shoulder or by hand. Cool!
We absolutely LOVE this delightful wooden toy paddle boat. If you have wee ones in your family, this is sure to make bath time a hit!
Do you have favorite Maine-Made items you wish were on this list? Let us know what we missed in the comments below!
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Everyone has a personal preference for how warm they prefer to be while sleeping. If you like to be toasty warm, wool is a great fiber option because it’s extremely effective at trapping your body heat. Layering with a wool blanket such as the Glacier National Park Blanket from Pendelton is the perfect choice for staying as warm as possible.
On the other hand, cotton is a great fiber choice if you like to be warm, but not too warm. Cotton is a breathable fiber, which is great for keeping warm but not allowing you to overheat which will make you restless which ultimately results in a poor night’s sleep. At the Bates Mill Store, we have a lovely assortment of Made in USA cotton blankets to choose from.
The weight of your blanket is also a very important detail when considering adding that extra layer. If you don’t like to feel weighed down, or your top cover is already quite heavy, you’ll want to look for a lightweight blanket. A great choice for a lightweight blanket that is also warm would be the Peaceful Touch Fleece Blanket by American Blanket.
If you prefer a bit of weight on you while you sleep, however, a great blanket choice is our very own Kineo Blanket. The thick, heavy yarns in a tight weave make this blanket a generous seven pounds (for the full/queen size). At this weight, the Kineo Blanket will hug you while you sleep, keeping you comfortably secured (and at just the right temperature) all night long.
When the blanket is serving as an extra layer, with another cover on top of it such as a bedspread or coverlet, the style itself isn’t quite as important as the function. You can easily go with a neutral blanket that serves the purpose of warmth but isn’t overly flamboyant in style or color, such as our Cathedral Blanket. The simple chevron pattern is subtle, and the solid color options of white or antique (off-white) will pair well with any top cover you choose - without overpowering it.
Alternatively, if the blanket that you’re using is also going to serve as your top cover, you’ll most definitely want to consider the styling of the blanket because it will be a major centerpiece of your bedroom. We really like the collection of patterns and colors available through Faribault Wollen Mill Co. and Maine Woolens.
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We hope you’ve found these tips to be helpful in picking the best blanket for you this winter. If you have a favorite blanket or tip for choosing one, please share it in the comments below!
]]>The Marshfield School of Weaving is situated in the gorgeous, mountainous town of Marshfield, Vermont. Founded in 1974 by Norman Kennedy, the school predominantly specializes in teaching the time-tested textile methods of 18th century Britain and early America. They proudly house a large collection of antique four-post looms and other equipment, which the students learn to use during their instruction.
Our designer was able to spend the last week in August there, surrounded by breath-taking hills, mooing cows, and the sound of clacking looms. We hope you enjoy this photo collection as much as she enjoyed her stay there!
Directly outside the school, the surrounding view is spectacular and inspiring!
One of the main weaving rooms is located within a beautifully remodeled barn. This photo shows only three of the many barn frame looms at the school, along with a small table top loom used for smaller projects.
On the opposite side of the main room are two antique dobby looms. The dobby mechanism, which allows for more complex patterning, is the iron contraption which sits on top of the loom frame. If you've ever been to our mill in Monmouth, Maine, you'll notice some interesting similarities and differences in machinery! Even though time has changed the technology, so much of the process remains the same.
Our designer set out to make a small set of towels using the traditional methods taught at Marshfield. The first step was to make the warp. To do so, she used a free-standing warping board and a spool rack, which allows multiple threads to be warped at once.
Here is the finished chained warp, ready to be moved to the loom. Crisper weather inspired the autumn-like color scheme. But there's still lots of green there, though, so don't fret - we're not rushing winter or anything!
At Marshfield, bobbins for adding filling (also called the weft) are wound on large wheels, like the ones pictured here.
Finally time to weave towels! A flexible measuring tape is pinned to the side to keep track of how much fabric is woven per towel. This warp is long enough to make four towels.
Our designer usually uses table looms for development projects at the mill, so weaving with a floor loom was completely new to her! Sometimes notes taped where they're visible is a must. Pictured here are also two end-delivery shuttles, one filled with green yarn and one with orange. These are used to pass the weft threads through the shed.
This photo shows the underside of the loom and the treadles. On a floor loom, the weaver controls the lifting of the harnesses (and thus, the pattern produced on the fabric) by pushing down select treadles with their feet.
It's very satisfying to complete a weaving project! Here are the final towels we ended up with. Our designer was able to practice different techniques on each one. It's amazing the variety of color and pattern that can be produced on a single warp.
For more information about The Marshfield School of Weaving, please visit their website. If you're interested in taking a weaving, spinning, or dyeing class of your own, they may be a great fit!
]]>Photos: The entry to the Baxter Brewpub tucked behind the mill next to the canal. if the weather permits, be sure to enjoy a beverage on the patio where you can hear the falls of the canal that powered the mill for over a century.
Started in 2010, the Baxter Brewing Company has grown from a small production brewery to one of the largest craft breweries in Maine. Baxter is an innovative leader in its industry as the first New England brewery to can all of its beer (a more sustainable and also easier to drink choice!).
Photos: Housed in the original powerhouse of the Bates Mill, Baxter embraced the history in the design of its new brewpub, "The Pub." Rather than remove or hide the old equipment, Baxter features them throughout the pub as a subtle nod to mill's past.
Recently, we had the opportunity to visit our original home in the Bates Mill to tour Baxter’s production facility and new brewpub located in the original mill powerhouse. We had a great time visiting with Baxter’s Marketing Director, Adam, and sharing stories of the mill back when the powerhouse was still operating and the millworkers were still toiling away around the clock crafting America’s finest bedspreads.
Photos: Behind the scenes of the brewery.
While we may have moved our weaving operation up the road to Monmouth, we’re proud to see the old Bates Mill has not lost its innovative manufacturing soul as Baxter carries on the tradition proudly. If you’re making your way up to visit us, we encourage you to stop by Baxter for a tour of the original mill and to sample another of Maine’s finest creations, Baxter Beer.
Update: We also recently learned that Baxter's founder, Luke Livingston, is retiring from the brewery. He will retire on Sept. 13 on the day that Baxter brew's its 100th barrel of its signature Stowaway IPA. Congratulations, Luke!
]]>It's been a crazy spring and busy summer, but don't fret-- we haven't forgotten about our Barn Frame Loom Reconstruction Project! While we wait on getting some parts, our designer has been slowly making replacement string heddles for the loom (read more about heddles and their function in Part 1 of our Barn Loom Reconstruction series). If you are a hand weaver and are interested in making your own string heddles, or if you're just interested in general (because it's neat!) we've created a small tutorial for how we've been creating ours.
The first step is to create a small jig to make the heddles on. A narrow piece of wood, 6 nails, a hammer, and a ruler is all you need! There is a good description of how to construct a jig here. Once you have your jig, you'll need some thin but strong cotton twine and a pair of scissors.
Square knots are used to make heddles! If you're not sure what type of knot a square knot is, follow this tutorial on how to make a square knot here.
To begin the heddle, first cut a piece of twine - 3 times the length of your jig should be enough. Fold the piece of twine evenly in half, and drape it around the top-most nail, as pictured in diagram 1. Next, tie your first square knot around the bottom of the second nail. A close up of this knot is shown in diagram 2.
The 3rd and 4th nails are what make the heddle's eyelet. This is what holds a warp thread on a loom. To create the eyelet, tie a second square knot under the third nail (just like you did under the second nail), as shown by the red arrow in diagram 3. Make sure the twine is kept taught. Next, tie another square knot under the 4th nail, creating a small circular opening with the twine (diagram 4).
To finish the heddle, we're going to tie two more square knots! Tie one underneath the 5th nail (location shown by the red arrow in diagram 5) and a final one under the 6th nail (diagram 6). Trim off the excess twine when finished - we like to leave a small tail, just in case.
As you make more and more heddles, it can be useful to keep track of how many you have. Using a contrasting color string, tie off the heddles in bundles as you make them (we like to do bundles of 10 to keep it simple). We've found that about 40 heddles fit on our jig, so 4 bundles of 10. We'll need a lot more than 40 heddles for our Barn Frame Loom, so until we get enough we're storing them in tied off groups, using safety pins to keep the ends in order.
We hope you enjoyed this string heddle tying tutorial! Stay tuned over the next couple months and we'll share how it goes installing the heddles we've made onto the barn frame loom.
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