Tualatin, OR — August 22, 2008 — Hartmann & Forbes, innovative maker of handcrafted natural window coverings, has launched the KottaWeave Collection of handwoven jutes, many of which are hand spun to a textile-like refinement. The collection includes a total of 24 designs reflecting today's definition of luxury.
"We drew inspiration from the ancient Japanese aesthetic ideal of Miyabi which referred to the evolution of design into a perfection of form and color," said Michael Jones, founder and CEO of Hartmann & Forbes. "The KottaWeave Collection is pioneering in the sense that it combines a unique array of random textures within a backdrop of refinement, making the look both stylish and sophisticated."
KottaWeave features jute, a naturally thick and strong fiber, which is spun into yarn and handwoven into a light and airy, textile-like weave. Natural filaments, such as river reeds and leather, are interwoven into select weaves to add depth and intrigue.
"Our artisans use the same hand weaving techniques as the original artisans over 1200 years ago," said Jones. "It is a meticulous three-day process to weave one roll of a KottaWeave, and extra attentive care is taken to ensure each roll is woven precisely."
Due to its textile-like nature, KottaWeave can also be incorporated into Hartmann & Forbes' patent pending METROSCAPE™ roman shades and draperies, unveiled during the spring of 2008. METROSCAPE is designed so that a pane of KottaWeave inlaid within a textile roman shade or drapery softly filters natural light into the room, while the textile body maintains a veil of privacy.
Local artisans in Hartmann & Forbes' Pacific Northwest finishing facility handcraft each weave into roman shades, draperies and pillows to the interior designer's unique specifications using age-old techniques.
About Hartmann & Forbes
Hartmann & Forbes is an independent company dedicated to preserving age-old handcrafting traditions through modern and innovative designs, which reflect today's definition of luxury. Founded in 1998 by company CEO Michael Jones, Hartmann & Forbes prides itself on innovative designs, unsurpassed quality, environmental responsibility and exceptional delivery and service. The company specializes in making handcrafted natural window coverings inspired by people and cultures of the world: roman shades, draperies, panelscreen, rollershades, top treatments and pillows.
Hartmann & Forbes window coverings and accessories are available through a network of high-end U.S. and international showrooms. The company's website can be found at www.hfshades.com.
