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.

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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.