Radically Local
Autumn colour palette
Exciting projects are always brewing at AO Textiles. We are passionate about pushing the boundaries of regenerative textiles, and each of us has a specialism that drives our creativity and which we work on collaboratively. One area that's particularly close to our hearts is Local Colour, an area of research led by Emma that's all about harnessing the beauty of UK tree waste to create stunning, unique colour palettes. This journey began during lockdown, when Emma's unexpected relocation to Somerset sparked a fascination with the local landscape and its potential for sustainable textile innovation.
Latest developments will be on display as part of AO Textiles work showcased at the ‘Making Sense’ exhibition at Istituto Marangoni London starting on the 17th of February.
Opening times: Weekdays from 17 to 28 February 2025, 10AM to 5PM.
Follow Emma's personal journey on her Instagram page @emma_darcey for a behind-the-scenes look at her research and discoveries.
Further information below about Emma’s contribution to the ‘Radically Local’ project:
A practice-based investigation exploring the potential of the technical, creative, and regenerative possibilities of local tree colour derived from bio-debris and agricultural waste, and its contribution to the development of emotionally durable, scalable and sustainable heritage textiles.
This research investigates the use of naturally occurring bio-debris and agricultural waste from UK trees to dye heritage textiles. Initiated by an unexpected move to Somerset, the work builds on 15 years of industry experience developing natural dyes for yarn production as part of AO Textiles consultancy.
Responding to the climate crisis, the research focuses on scaling dyes through a regenerative approach, emphasising local production, community, and circularity. Colour is sourced from a network of farms, willow growers, a historic heritage garden, and nature reserves, located within a 20-mile radius of Emma’s home in Somerset.
A central aim of the research is to develop visually compelling and aesthetically appealing outcomes. Consequently, the methodology focuses on achieving rich and vibrant circular colours. Through a rigorous process involving pre-treatments, mordants, soaking, heating, and after-baths, the research optimises colour intensity, variation, and lightfastness. Recipes are refined to meet industry standards, producing biodegradable local colours.
The work presented in the exhibition is the first step in this ongoing project and explores a seasonal colour palette of UK tree debris-derived dyes spanning the months of May through to November 2024. Also on display linking to this research is a proof of concept trial in heritage jacquard weave as one of the AO Textile exhibits. Agricultural waste and bio-debris from Borough Hill Cider and Brandy farm and The Bishops Palace gardens in Somerset are used for the colours.