Milliken launching washable collection
By Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, January 6, 2003
High Point — Milliken Fabric, long known for its velvets, is launching a line of washable woven textures called Portfolio at its showroom at Space 1313 in the International Home Furnishings Center during Showtime here this week.
The new line features finer denier yarns designed to replicate the silky luster of combed cotton and also represents an expanded palette for Milliken, according to Charles Adams, business manager.
Stafford Brooke, director of sales and marketing, said the domestically produced fabrics are 100% polyester and are priced in the $5 to $7 range.
As velvet regains its popularity, Adams said, Milliken has diversified its offerings in the knit velvet category with three added collections and updated its palette for 2003. The new collections are Silken Shadows (traditionally inspired patterns), Modern Transitions (a mix of retro whimsy and classic looks), and Natural Textures (soft, casual patterns found in nature).
"Our introductions feature a higher, more opulent luster," Adams added. "The challenge was to maintain a relaxed look and feel as we added luster."
The 2003 palette, designed by Lou Webster and Renee Booths of the Milliken Decorative Fabric design team, has four moods — Oasis (serene and soft), Powder Room (feminine shades), Repertoire (rich traditional colors), and Soul Food (vivid and sensual).
The new wovens, as well as the velvets, are jet-dyed and available in custom colors.
