Doreen Gittens

Master Weaver

Doreen at the loom

Early Days

My mother was a dressmaker so it's no surprise I turned to textiles. I have so many happy memories working with her as a little girl, learning about the different fabrics and weaves.

I travelled a lot when I was younger and have always lived on islands - Jamaica, Barbados, Grenada and the UK - so I called my company Archipelago. It's particularly fitting when I'm working in my studio, watching the boats go by.

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Inspiration, news from the studio and exciting items for sale

On display in the Tate Modern

Honing My Trade

I've been all over the UK, studying textile design in London, Somerset and Surrey before doing my Masters in Scotland. It was there that I discovered the loom, and was hooked! I knew I had found my passion.

I was one of the original tenants of London’s OXO building and have been here 25 years, during which I’ve won several awards and had my work featured in the Tate Shop. I love being part of a thriving community of designers.

In the Studio

Weaving Today

I still lose myself in weaving, and still get the same joy of working with customers and creating unique fabrics. There is nothing more fulfilling than creating something beautiful for someone.

As we start to rekindle our community post-Covid, it's so pleasing to see customers and have people coming to the shop again. If you're passing by please do drop in, or if you're interested in a fabric don't hesitate to contact me.

My Qualifications and Experience

Qualifications

  • Masters in Design (Woven Fabrics) :: Glasgow University
  • BA(Hons) Woven Textiles and Fashion :: Farnham University for the Creative Arts

Awards

  • The Viscount Mackintosh of Halifax
  • The Jamaican Association UK Trust
  • Craft Council Award
  • Clerkenwell Award Scheme
  • Sainsburys OXO Tower Wharf Scholarship for Outstanding Design

Publications and Television

  • London Evening Standard Fashion Guide
  • Caribbean Airlines Inflight Magazine
  • Islington Gazette Guide
  • Mellieum Mill, Belgium, ROB Flemish TV
  • British Airways Inflight Video
  • Craft Council Buyers Guide, Contemporary British Textiles for Interiors
  • British Trade Partners (published in Italy)

Other Achievements

Media (click to enlarge)

I'm waiting to discuss your requirements

Please don't hesitate to drop me a line or call into the studio, I'm happy to discuss your requirements.

Doreen Gittens

Request a callback or email

    You can also send me a message using my contact form, or call the studio on 020 1234 5678