“One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to never give up. Failure is an integral part of the journey, and many businesses emphasise that you cannot succeed without first experiencing setbacks. This truth resonates deeply with me; success rarely occurs overnight. The only way to truly learn is through mistakes.”
Nichola Taylorson
Textiles Designer and Founder of Nichola Taylorson Textiles
Our Urban Explorer
Could you please introduce yourself to our guests?
Hello! I am Nichola Taylorson and I am a textiles designer based in London.
Did you always have an interest in textiles?
I would say that my passion for color and interiors has always been a fundamental part of who I am, nurtured by my creative upbringing. Coming from a family deeply engaged in the arts, many of my cousins and aunts have pursued crafts such as glass blowing and printmaking. My late Nana, who passed away several years ago, was an enthusiastic sewer, and I believe it was during those cherished moments spent with her that my love for textiles truly blossomed. Her dedication to her craft instilled in me a profound fascination for fabrics that has only deepened over the years.
How did you get into textiles designs?
To return to where it all began, I studied printed textile design at Leeds College of Art. This specialized course allowed me to focus on job patterns, leading to opportunities in either fashion or interiors. It was during this time that I developed my skills in printmaking, embroidery, and various textures, although I often felt like I was navigating my own path. At that stage, I had not yet embraced any ethnic Indian influence; it was primarily a journey of exploration and experimentation.
After graduating, I received a job offer in India, which solidified my connection to the country. I took a position as a graduate designer for an export company that specialized in fabrics distributed globally. They sought a European designer to help infuse a European aesthetic into their offerings, enabling them to better cater to the European market.
Where did the idea to start your own textiles company come from?
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in India and gained invaluable insights, but I soon recognized the necessity of stepping away from that vibrant experience to embrace a more serious approach to life. Upon returning at the age of 27, my affection for India remained unwavering, and I sought a way to maintain that connection without residing there. This desire sparked the idea of starting my own business.
My passion for craftsmanship blossomed during this time, particularly as my previous company focused on commercial production in large factories, relying heavily on machinery. I yearned to delve into the true essence of India—its rich traditions of hand printing and hand embroidery. After returning home, I conducted thorough research and embarked on a journey to Rajasthan and other regions, immersing myself in these artisanal techniques to deepen my understanding. This exploration would ultimately inform my designs, allowing me to create pieces grounded in authentic craftsmanship.
What does a day in the life of Nichola Taylorson look like?
As a new mother, the past year has been a delicate balancing act, primarily focused on navigating the demands of full-time motherhood while keeping my business afloat. Much of my progress relies on the invaluable support of babysitters, allowing me to manage emails and fulfill orders.
On a daily basis, my routine involves a significant amount of administrative work to maintain our client relationships. Unfortunately, the creative aspect of my role doesn’t occur as frequently as I would like; I typically launch new collections only once a year. This involves developing concepts and refining them over time, which is a slow but rewarding process.
In addition to this annual cycle, my day-to-day activities include managing samples, creating content for Instagram, and participating in trade shows. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in sustaining the business and connecting with our audience.
What does ”Urban Explorer” mean to you and how do you think you fit into this term?
I consider myself an urban explorer, driven by my love for travel. While I have always cherished the thrill of discovering new places, there is an undeniable comfort in returning home. Having spent most of my life in London, I have a deep familiarity with the city, though I also experienced living in India during my university years.
My time in India was profoundly impactful. I felt vibrantly alive in that environment, especially as a young person navigating its complexities. Living in India requires a certain awareness; it is a bustling and, at times, dangerous place. One must remain vigilant and cannot afford to be naive. This heightened state of alertness, however, was invigorating and energizing. Living in India was exhilarating and empowering, allowing me to embrace my identity on my own terms.
Details In The Fabrics
Fabrics are all about colours, prints and textures. Where do you find inspiration for your captivating fabrics?
Many people tell me how much they love my fabrics, noting their unique blend of Indian influences alongside a modern aesthetic. This fusion is at the heart of my concept. My goal is to create textiles that possess a contemporary feel without appearing overly ethnic, allowing for a harmonious balance between tradition and modernity.
My unique selling proposition lies in the intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and diverse patterns I incorporate into my designs. I am constantly exploring different shades and embroidery threads, always seeking ways to add depth and life to my creations. When I examine my work, I appreciate the simplicity of the designs, which often reveal a certain unique quality in their production.
The feedback I receive about my colorful textiles is overwhelmingly positive; people describe them as bright and beautiful, yet not overwhelming. The colors strike a healthy balance—warm and inviting, yet playful enough to inspire creativity. Ultimately, my inspiration comes from the world around me, drawing from a rich tapestry of experiences and influences.
What do you find the most challenging about your work?
I would say that the most significant challenge I face is quality control, which is why I rely on my agents a lot in India. I struggled considerably before establishing this support system. This aspect becomes even more crucial when managing production from afar, as I am not physically present to oversee the processes. I appreciate having control over my work, but being removed from the location means I inevitably lose some oversight. Ideally, if everything were produced in my studio, I could closely monitor the craft and allow it to flourish. However, given the nature of small-batch printed textiles, perfection is not always attainable. Each piece of fabric is unique, which I openly acknowledge. Achieving exact consistency can be quite challenging, and I make it clear that slight variations are to be expected in my textiles.
What do you find most fulfilling about your work?
When a large order comes in, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and happiness. It is truly amazing to think that someone wants to purchase my textiles and display it in their home. The thought that what I’ve created holds a place of honour in someone’s living space is profoundly fulfilling. Engaging with customers and witnessing their enthusiasm for the collection is incredibly rewarding. However, I often find myself so immersed in the day-to-day operations that I lose sight of the beauty of my work. When people encounter my designs for the first time and share their admiration, I am genuinely taken aback. It serves as a poignant reminder of what I have accomplished, something I sometimes overlook in the midst of my busy routine. Participating in trade shows and interacting directly with customers allows me to share my story, reinforcing the connection between my creations and the joy they bring to others. These experiences are invaluable reminders of the meaningful impact of my work.
What words of advice could you offer someone looking to fall into your footsteps as an entrepreneur?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to never give up. Failure is an integral part of the journey, and many businesses emphasise that you cannot succeed without first experiencing setbacks. This truth resonates deeply with me; success rarely occurs overnight. The only way to truly learn is through mistakes.
Patience is equally vital. During challenging times, especially during the pandemic, I often felt envious of those in stable jobs, questioning my choices. Yet, it is through these struggles that resilience is built. Reflecting on those difficult moments, I remember feeling drained and uncertain. However, launching new collections and taking risks has been crucial to my growth. Each time I embraced change, it propelled me forward and reinforced my confidence in my vision.
Travel Inspiration
Do you have any travel inspirations?
If I had endless time and money, I would love to travel extensively. I often think about my travel bucket list and the incredible places I want to explore. Speaking with friends about their journeys inspires me, as I enjoy hearing about their experiences. I have a particular fondness for relaxing on beautiful beaches—but I also crave the thrill of exploration. Fortunately, I’ve had the opportunity to travel quite a bit, particularly during my gap year, which allowed me to visit many countries.
Inspiration can strike from anywhere new, and I find excitement in all forms of travel. Unlike those who prefer a specific type of vacation, whether beach getaways or city breaks, I embrace it all. I especially cherish cultural experiences and appreciate the richness that different destinations offer. I’m always eager to discover new places, whether urban or rural, as every journey brings its own unique joys.
What other destinations are on your bucket list?
I would love to visit Sri Lanka, a destination I have yet to explore. My husband traveled there many years ago, and it’s a place we’ve talked about visiting together, but we haven’t made it happen yet. He often speaks fondly of his time there, which only adds to my desire to go. I also find Sri Lanka incredibly appealing; it looks like a beautiful country with a tropical climate, delicious food, and stunning landscapes. The combination of beach relaxation and vibrant culture aligns perfectly with my travel preferences. Additionally, I’m eager to explore more of Africa, particularly the safari experience. The opportunity to witness wildlife in their natural habitat fascinates me, and I would love to immerse myself in that adventure. Both Sri Lanka and Africa are high on my travel bucket list.
In 3 words, how would you describe London?
Diverse, Cultural, Home