Life Behind The Loom

Established by his grandmother in the 1950s, Mario Sierra of Mourne Textiles tells us more about the heritage and continued success of this longstanding Irish brand.

Mourne Textiles has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. When I was a boy, the workshop was my playground. I vividly remember the unmistakable smell of lanolin from the fleeces, and in the background, the rhythmic sounds of the looms creating fabric: it was a wonderful place to grow up.

My grandmother, Gerd Hay-Edie originally set up the workshop and design studio in 1954. Weaving had long since been a passion of hers; the Mourne Mountains allowed her passion to develop into an established global business that would endure for 70 years.

From an early age, my mother, Karen Hay-Edie was influenced by her mother’s knowledge and technical ability. Over the years, Karen perfected the art of weaving her mother’s iconic designs. My mother went on to become a Master Weaver and, equipped with her own skills and ability, became a vital addition to the business.

It was inevitable, given my background, that I too would develop a love and fascination for weaving and eight years ago, with the support of my family, I re-established Mourne Textiles.

HOW THINGS HAVE CHANGED

The last eight years have been a fantastic learning experience for me and the team. It’s been hugely rewarding to breathe new life into my grandmother’s original designs and I greatly enjoy combining our rich heritage with modern, contemporary influences.

Last year we were pleased to announce the launch of Mourne Weavers, a joint venture with Ulster Carpets, that saw the opening of our second mill in Warrenpoint.