Designer Tidbits: Through the Winter Woods by Holly Taylor

Prepare for a ride through snowy woods, on a winding trail strewn with flurries, curving around lofty fir trees and treading cautiously over a frozen brook, and stopping only when you reach a warm house full of light and laughter. You’ve just experienced a bit of Through the Winter Woods, by Holly Taylors for Moda Fabrics. Eileen Taylor & Lynn Hawley Bloomquist, the two friends behind Holly Taylor, are here to bring you more about their new fabric line.

Q: Tell us a little about the Through the Winter Woods collection. What were you inspired by?
A: Remember that tune “over the river and through the woods…?” That melody was the inspiration for this group. Our thoughts wandered back to a time when you would nestle into a wagon, cover yourself with quilts and start on a holiday journey. The horses would be snorting and you could see their breath in the cold, crisp, pine-scented air as you crossed over the creek and into the woods. We could just feel ourselves on that journey… on our way to deliver wonderful handmade gifts to family and neighbors. “Through the Winter Woods” is a line that is still true to our Northwoods feel, but brings in a bit of a country and history feel to it.

Q: What is your design process when beginning a new collection?

A: A design process begins with inspiration. Once we know the direction we want to take the line, it is collaborative work that determines the images, the color palette, and designs. Lynn and I work great as a team to take ideas and put them together in a way that is whimsical and worthy of being in someone’s home. 

Q: What design trends are you currently exploring?

A: We try to stay true to the Northwoods look while bringing something fresh and new to the line every time. Because of the process of designing, creating, printing, and shipping, a line takes a lot of time, so we are usually working at least a year ahead. We listen to shop owners about what the customers like about the lines and try to continue to incorporate what people want to see, and we are always open to suggestions.

Q: What projects do you hope to see made with Through the Winter Woods?

A: Doug Leko made a fabulous book of the same name from this line. His projects are great! I would love to see anything that anyone makes from our fabric. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing someone likes our line enough to make something for their home from it. I especially like it when people send me pictures of their completed projects. The great thing about this fabric line is how versatile it can be; really you are only limited to your imagination as to what can be created with these pieces.

Q: How do you describe your style?

A: We are definitely Northwoods. Think of camping or vacations at the cabin. We stick to nature and bring a little bit of a whimsical feel to it.