A life-long interest and passion for textiles and fabrics of all kinds, led Rhonda Charles to craft her own career from her childhood memories. Seeing much of her clothing hand sewn from home or hand knitted was a huge inspiration, as well as her travels to other cultures where she experienced the variety and richness of textiles in other countries.

But it was her specific fascinated with the myriad ways in which a simple square or rectangle of fabric is utilised in many (mostly non-western) cultures that really transformed her business, LOOM Lifestyle. Especially the wrapping and tying such as body coverings like sarongs, saris, shawls, wraps, head coverings or swaddling for babies, with larger pieces used for sleeping, warmth, entertaining or as decoration, and Rhonda says these pieces are often imbued with cultural or religious significance. “Our special (although not exclusive) interest is in hand made textiles and how traditionally, the value and significance of a textile is related to the complexity of the design and time invested in the piece,” she says. “In appearance, hand woven or hand stitched pieces have a nuance and charm that are not obtainable in machine made goods. “It is the small imperfections and variations that give character to a hand-made piece.”

Several years ago this passion for textiles lead to a meeting with a community of weavers in rural India, a country with a very rich history in textiles and hand production. “Initially we began by developing a small range of scarves and wraps, mostly in fine Indian cottons, which are perfectly suited to our hot Australian climate,” says Rhonda. “Subsequent meetings with other artisan groups has led to a gradual expansion of the range to include hand stitched or woven bedcovers, textured pieces that can be used as throws or wraps, sheer hand woven curtains, and bathroom accessories.”

Products are now sourced from other countries as well, including Morocco and Turkey. “One of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of developing these products, besides the travel and being immersed in another culture, is in working directly with the artisans themselves, in appreciating their skills and understanding their lives,” says Rhonsa. “Needless to say, the process can also be quite challenging at times!”

In designing, LOOM Lifestyle like to combine the traditional skills and particular techniques of the artisans, with a more modern design aesthetic. This results in neutral and pared back shades of white, a little black or grey, with small touches of colour in stitching or detailing. “The focus is on subtle textures and an appreciation for the simple luxury of a hand-made piece,” says Rhonda. “Using only natural fibres, our range includes the finest hand woven Indian cottons, through to very rustic woollen blankets from Morocco. Rather than developing a completely new look every season, our range is a gradual evolution, remaining true to our core values and aesthetics.”

Helping poor communities to earn a living is also a fundamental part of our development. “Our aim is to create pieces that are both beautiful and practical, that can be utilised in various ways in our homes and everyday life, pieces that can be appreciated and enjoyed for their beauty, charm and workmanship, and have longevity,” she says.

LOOM Lifestyle will exhibit their extensive collection of scarves, wraps, soft furnishings and home wares for the first time at Decoration + Design from 1-3 February, 2012 at the Sydney Exhibition Centre. “We believe it to be the best and most appropriate way to showcase our product to the retail and interior decorating sector,” says Rhonda.

To register for D+D Sydney, visit www.decorationdesign.com.au

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