Hi I'm Paula the founder of Withnell. I am a hands on garment designer and maker inspired by my history and heritage at the foot of the West Pennine Moors in Lancashire. Everything is lovingly handmade in my studio sewing the threads of British tradition and quality together in unique, easy to wear garments that are timeless, defy trends and seasons. Withnell is an exciting amalgamation of my life experiences from the clothing industry and from teaching. I describe myself as an 'oldtrepeneur' because I started Withnell in my fifties. I didn't want to always be wondering 'what if?" So I took a leap of faith into a whole new adventure with the encouragement of my wonderful family and friends. I have a 'made to order' business model so that no materials or garments are wasted. Pieces are designed with the best quality and comfort in mind. My garments are dual sized to allow for flexibility and fluctuations in our bodies over time. Everything is natural and biodegradable, I am proud to be plastic free.

What do you produce?

I make premium garments using natural materials cotton, linen and wool.

Where do you source your ingredients / materials from?

Sadly we don't grow and produce vegetable fibres here in the UK so I source material from several places with the journey of the cloth in mind. If I can't support a UK manufacturer then I support UK merchants, many having a rich history and heritage in the textile industry. Lots of garments are whisked around the globe as they are being made creating a huge carbon footprint. I try to minimise that as much as possible. I choose cotton and organic cotton that is grown, spun dyed and woven in one country, India or China. Linen is grown, spun, dyed and woven in Lithuania, some is grown in Europe then dyed and woven in Northern Ireland. Wool is British , spun dyed and woven in Yorkshire. I source natural buttons from Courtney and Co button makers who are one of the last button. makers in the UK. My cotton labels are printed in Derby.

Why do your customers love your products?

Versatile and timeless designs are loved by my customers. They love the quality workmanship and the feel of premium fabric. Customers also love the personal touch. They like the fact that pieces can be customed to their requirements - shorter or longer - different cloth - different colour. Many customers return again and again.

What are your best selling products?

The Helen dress is our most popular dress in both the pleated or gathered version. It's such a versatile style and comes in a variety of fabric choices. The Dorothy peplum blouse is our best selling blouse. Again for its comfort and versatility. People wear it as a blouse or over dresses and jeans as a jacket.

Where can we buy your products?

Please visit the Withnell website - www.withnell.co to see our full range. You can also see many examples on instagram @withnell.studio. We visit several makers markets and country fairs across the year. To find out more you can sign up to our fortnightly-ish newsletter. You can do this at the bottom of the landing page on our website www.withnell.co

Are you open for visitors? If yes, what are your opening hours?

You are most welcome to visit my home studio. Please email hello@withnell.co to arrange a convenient date and time.

Have you received any awards / lovely recommendations from experts (don't be shy!)?

We have recently become a Plastic Free Champion. This status was awarded from plastic free communities for our commitment towards being a plastic free business. We are now working towards a Silver Award for work with the community.

Do you sell wholesale? If so how do we get in touch with you to discuss further?

Yes. if you are an independent who shares our passion for quality and embrace our strong ethos and values. Please get in touch via email at hello@withnell.co

Who's the best local producer near you (except you of course!)?

Goosnargh Gin. Rachel and Richard hand make all their own gins in small batches with quality ingredients sustainably and ethically sourced.

Website

https://withnell.co

Address Summary

PR6 8