Handmade Textile Art Commissions Rise in UK Interiors
In the UK, there is a growing fascination with handmade textile art as both homeowners and designers aim for distinctive, tactile interiors. According to The Guardian on 27 July 2026, Liberty's fabric department experienced a remarkable 140% expansion, reaching 4,630 square feet, following an 11% increase in sales. Research from the Crafts Council indicates that adult participation in crafts rose from 15% to 20%. On 20 July 2026, Liberty unveiled its revamped fabric area, featuring custom installations. Textile art brings warmth and color, contrasting with hard surfaces. Commissions can include wall hangings, tapestries, quilts, and upholstery, with prices varying based on size, technique, and design. The commission process encompasses discovery, concept development, and installation, with CommissionIt facilitating maker sourcing and management, including textile artists and weavers.
Key facts
- Interest in commissioning handmade textile art is rising across the UK.
- Liberty expanded its fabric department by 140% to 4,630 square feet.
- Liberty's fabric sales rose 11% in the previous year.
- Crafts Council research shows adult craft participation in the UK rose from 15% to 20%.
- Liberty's refreshed fabric space opened on 20 July 2026.
- Textile art can include woven wall hangings, tapestry, embroidery, quilts, cushions, throws, and upholstery.
- Cost drivers include dimensions, technique, fiber choice, density of handwork, design development, framing, and installation.
- CommissionIt helps source and manage textile artists and makers.
Entities
Institutions
- The Guardian
- Liberty
- Crafts Council
- CommissionIt
Locations
- United Kingdom
- UK