BRINGING TIE-UP TO LIFE
Tie-Up Textiles was established for two purposes; to offer an alternative to the mainstream motifs often associated with interior fabrics, and to pay homage to the dying era of handwork and craftsmanship.
This thought-provoking home decor line is intended to step away from trend to focus on nonconformist texture and an eye-catching use of color. Each project is curated in limited production runs. A few of my reoccurring sources of inspiration include a curiosity for early 20th-century manufacturing, a deep romance toward traditional Native American values, and the healing powers of music.
As an introvert and human who feels deeply, my relationship with fabric over the last decade has morphed itself into a metaphorical chameleon. The cloth itself holds tiny messages, often playing the role of a phantom thread. Like the chameleon, my current state of mind or mood can often be determined by the colorways used to create my projects. At a glance, you might miss the message.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
My name is Kathleen Fitzpatrick. I’m an artist trained in traditional and modern fiber practices, holding a bachelor’s degree from Kutztown University in material studies and art history.
I began my textile career immediately following graduation. For many years, I worked at a digital printing firm guiding designers through the process of building private label textile collections. My role included assistance with fabric selection, designing repeats, and color management.
By 2016, I’d begun blending that industry experience with my own creative take on modern décor, establishing Tie-Up Textiles. My boutique-style business is dedicated to preserving the art of hand weaving and dyeing, while also challenging these practices to make them entirely my own.
Lately, my creative interests have been heavily rotating around the ways in which music heals us, especially those running on more sensitive wiring. I’ve put a lot of energy over the last few months in translating those emotions into my body of work. I hope you’ll stick around for the launch of my latest series, the Bauhaus Collection.
ABOUT THE PROCESS
When it comes to my process, everything originates and is developed through my hands. Tie-Up's woven work is drafted start to finish on five floor looms within my small Wilmington, Delaware studio.
My dyed fabrics are prepped and processed in small batches, making each set of napkins entirely unique. Little to no outsourcing is used throughout any of my production practices.
Finished products like woven pillows and table runners are stitched and packaged entirely in-house. I keep a low overhead to provide the highest quality, cost-considerate goods for my customers.
The yardage collection is printed on natural fibers using water-based pigment inks. And whenever possible, I partner with local mills who also encourage environmentally friendly practices.
GIVING BACK
RAISING FUNDS
In August 2022, Tie-Up Textiles raised 1k in donations for the Brandywine Valley SPCA. Thank you to all who supported this cause through the sales of handmade tea towels, pet portraits, and pet pantry supplies.
