London hosted the Textile Forum, a fabric sourcing fair on October 15 and 16. There are a growing number of fabric companies that realise there is business to be gained from keeping stock in the UK. Visitors come to the fair to source interesting, high quality fabrics which they can order in small quantities with a quick turnaround.

More than 50 collections were on display from mainly British companies, ranging from luxury silks and fine worsted cloths to leather, faux leather and fake furs, as well as digital prints, lace and bridal fabrics complete with crystal embellishments. Visitors were from three main groups: the new generation or young start-ups, existing brands and manufacturers, and independent designers. Forest Digital made its debut at the show, offering a digital printing service on in-stock fabrics including silk jersey, cotton and modal cashmere. It got a lot of enquiries about its printed scarf service.

Carrington Fabrics has been exhibiting at the show since it began and was showcasing fashion fabrics, jacquards, basics and bridal collections. There was particular interest in its bridal collections. Brands including Jack Wills, Tommy Hilfiger, Daks and Ragged Priest were present. There were designers interested in the stock-supported collections with low or no minimum orders.

www.textileforum.org.uk/