Charlie Watts - great Tailoring comments

[Gerry]

Considering that there's only one chap left at Cluny who can make the cards to produce the lace, you'd think they'd be a little more proactive in securing the future of the company. This cries out for a collaboration with one of the local universities (research projects with industry are a common thing). At the very least they could digitise the cards somehow, so that the patterns aren't lost; and ideally develop a computer-controlled machine to punch out the cards. Preferably in a more resilient plastic.

I dare say they could tap the government for a grant to pay for all this, in the name of preserving a 'heritage' company. Nottingham is one of the most depressed areas of the UK, so it would be good PR. The city once produced silk, cotton and lace on an industrial scale. Now it's only known for its high crime rate.

There are a few companies like this throughout the UK. Their Victorian/Edwardian machinery was so over-engineered and long-lasting, they never thought to update it. Plus the quality couldn't be bettered.

[Hendrick]

Considering that there's only one chap left at Cluny who can make the cards to produce the lace, you'd think they'd be a little more proactive in securing the future of the company. This cries out for a collaboration with one of the local universities (research projects with industry are a common thing). At the very least they could digitise the cards somehow, so that the patterns aren't lost; and ideally develop a computer-controlled machine to punch out the cards. Preferably in a more resilient plastic.

I dare say they could tap the government for a grant to pay for all this, in the name of preserving a 'heritage' company. Nottingham is one of the most depressed areas of the UK, so it would be good PR. The city once produced silk, cotton and lace on an industrial scale. Now it's only known for its high crime rate.

There are a few companies like this throughout the UK. Their Victorian/Edwardian machinery was so over-engineered and long-lasting, they never thought to update it. Plus the quality couldn't be bettered.

Interestingly, in France, the big holdings like Kering, LVMH and Hermes are buying up these artisans and ateliers all over France and even Belgium. One of the oldest tanneries in belgium was taken over by Louis Vuitton a while ago.
Lace has been doing well actually in France, visit

https://www.dentelledecalaiscaudry.fr/

and see where the likes of Dior and Co. get theirs...

Regarding techniques and craftmanship there is a fabulous museum the Netherlands in what used to be the  textile town of Tiburg. Knowhow is preserved but with an eye on the future. There are ultramodern automated looms for experiment and development as well as artistry. The idea of the 3d knitted footwear, that is everywear now, was actually ignited in their lab.

A kind of offspring

https://byborre.com/

Develops and designs amazing stuff, also on demand.

Okay, back to work,

Cheers, Hendrick