Whaleys offer a wide range of Natural fabrics (over 450 in fact!) such as, silks, cottons, linens and wools which are specially prepared for dyeing and/or printing. We also stock loomstate fabrics like canvas, calico, jute and hessian and even include a line in Reactive Coated fabrics for use in Digital Printing.
In addition to these we run Devore Fabrics, coloured cottons, mixed fibres, synthetics and lots more besides.
Over the years, Whaleys have developed into one of the leading manufacturers of bespoke Stage Curtains and supply to a whole host of clientele, including Theatres, TV Studios, Arenas, Schools, Universities, Nightclubs and even Crematoria. We also stock a wide range of Flameproofed Fabrics, all to Current British Standards, and these can be bought by the metre or full roll.
Whaleys are a family owned company with over 140 years experience in the Textiles and Fabrics trade. Originally founded in 1869 by Samuel Whaley as Silk & Jute weavers, Whaleys soon became renowned manufacturers of sacks and storage bags for the respective weaving and woolen industries.
Over the years, Whaleys have expanded and diversified to become the company we are today, which currently offers a wide range of products, from natural and flameproofed fabrics sold by the metre/roll, to individually made to measure Stage and Theatre drapes. Never one to forget our roots, we have a wide variety of tailored bags for coal, garden and textile use.
Whaleys can truly call themselves a family firm as Harry Jowett, who took over the reins in 1900, was the great grandfather of the present Managing Director. In 1921, Whaleys was passed on to Harry Jowett's two sons-in-law, Fred Popplewell and James Robert McIlvenny.
Later, the sons of James Robert McIlvenny, Harry and James Fredrick (The current chairman) joined the company, and is now assisted by his son and Managing director, Peter, representing the fourth generation of the family.
Whaleys has been established for over 140 years, is a full member of PLASA and has a wealth of textile experience and expertise.