William Morris (1834 – 1896) is best known today for his beautiful designs for fabrics and wallpapers, but he was also an influential artist, philosopher, poet and political theorist. Morris was one of the most influential designers of the Arts and Crafts movement, a counter-reaction to the mass production of industrialism. Morris was passionately committed to reviving craftsmanship and emphasised the importance of handmade products.
 
This collaborative collection is created from a shared philosophy of craftsmanship where beauty and function go hand in hand. It brings together the rich heritage of William Morris’ unmistakable maximalist patterns and the clean, pared-down design language of Bookbinders Design. The result is timeless beauty and craftsmanship in perfect synergy.

Golden Lily

Golden Lily with its large patterned lilies, swirling leaves and winding stems was designed in 1899 by Morris’ apprentice and later Art Director John Henry Dearle. Many of Morris & Co’s later designs were produced under Dearle’s direction. This is widely regarded as one of his most beautiful patterns.

Clover

Clover was designed in 1880 and produced until 1917. The pattern is a typical example of Morris’ eternal love of nature and native wild flowers. The original design was produced using hand-block printing, which allowed for a colour saturation that could not be achieved by mechanised production techniques at the time.

William Morris

William Morris, born 24 March 1834, was a prominent British artist, designer and advocate of the Arts and Crafts movement in the 19th century. His influence spanned art, design and social issues, and he is considered one of the most significant figures in the Arts and Crafts movement. Morris was passionately committed to the revival of craftsmanship and emphasised the importance of handmade products. He believed that a home should only be filled with “what you know to be useful or believe to be beautiful”.
 
Morris’ pattern design is one of the most recognisable aspects of his work. His wallpapers, textiles and ceramics are characterised by rich colours and complex patterns, often inspired by nature. Morris used flowers, birds and leaves in his designs, and also drew inspiration from medieval and oriental styles.
 
William Morris’ legacy extends beyond his artistic creations. Even after his death in 1896, his ideas on sustainability, craftsmanship and beauty have continued to inspire generations of artists and designers.