Why William Morris Still Inspires Modern Stitchers

By Melanie & Dominique

William Morris (1834–1896) was a designer, artist, and writer whose work continues to influence artists and makers today, including embroiderers like us. He was a leading figure of the Arts and Crafts Movement, which championed craftsmanship, beauty, and the value of handmade objects in everyday life.

Morris believed that beauty should be everywhere, not just in galleries, but in the wallpaper on your walls, the fabrics you touch, and the patterns you live with. His designs often drew inspiration from nature: twisting vines, wild fruits, flowers in bloom, birds in flight, and intricate leaves.

One of the things that makes his work so enduring is his love of symmetry and rhythm. His patterns repeat and flow in ways that feel alive yet harmonious, a quality that resonates deeply with stitchers, where pattern, balance, and repetition bring calm and satisfaction.

Whether in wallpaper, textiles, or embroidery, Morris’s designs show how art and craft can coexist beautifully, and why taking the time to create something thoughtful and intentional makes a difference. His work reminds us that every stitch, like every pattern, matters, and that nature, colour, and symmetry can turn everyday objects into works of art.

For us, Morris’s approach continues to inspire the way we design patterns, choose colours, and let motifs evolve organically on the fabric. His philosophy isn’t just history; it’s a guide to creating embroidery that feels alive, harmonious, and timeless.

Melanie & Dominique x